Deanna Kimberly Burrell's Blog: The Red Cup Adventures, page 9
December 14, 2013
An Open Letter to the Men Who Can’t Figure Out Why We Aren’t Dating?
Presently, I’m single and dating.
To further clarify, I’m not in a committed relationship and I’m entertaining offers. I have a few gentlemen callers who are in my dating peripheral (which means we correspond occasionally, but I’m not taking them seriously) and for the life of them, they can’t figure out why we aren’t dating.
Since I feel no need to explain the obvious to a grown man, I usually ignore them when they ask "what’s up with us?". But I thought it would make an interesting topic for my blog, so here are the reasons we aren’t dating:
1) YOU DON’T CALL ME. Facebook messages and texts are cool for homies, but if you’re seriously trying to date me, I expect you to pick up the phone and have actual vocal conversations with me. FB and text messages are easy. You can multi-task a message to me and ten other girls at the same time. You can’t have a quality conversation with multiple people and I can tell a quality conversation so if you want to stand out, call me. Let me know you’re taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to me. Show me you want to hear my voice and want me to hear yours. If we never talk on the phone, we aren’t ever going to date.
2) YOU DON’T TAKE ME OUT. I’ve never dated online because I don’t have to. I’m a fun, active woman. I love going outside and meeting people face-to-face so I’m not going to have a virtual relationship with you. If our only interaction is text messages or private Facebook chats, then you aren’t worth my time. I like to see the men I’m dating. I want to hear your words and match them to your facial expressions. It’s a lot easier to tell if someone is lying in person and I like to weed out the bullshit asap. If we never go out on dates, we aren’t ever going to date. It’s redundant, but you’d be amazed at how many men don’t understand this concept.
3) YOU DON’T ROMANCE ME ON SPECIAL DAYS. Christmas and New Year's are just around corner. After that is Valentine's Day and then my birthday (which I consider a national holiday) is a week and two days after V-Day. If you call yourself trying to date me, but aren't asking me out for any (preferably all) of those romantic holidays, then we have nothing to talk about. Again, you would think that’s obvious, but I continue to be amazed that it’s not. If you aren’t putting forth your best efforts as a suitor on romantic holidays, we aren’t ever going to date.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like to be courted. I think gentlemen with manners are the sexiest things walking the earth. The people who say there’s a man shortage are wrong. There are plenty of great options out here. Yes, I got options. Yes, I’m entertaining offers. No, I’m not settling for any ole’ half-relationship. If you want to take Single Girl Summer off the market, bring me flowers, hug me tight and close, walk on the outside of the sidewalk, open my car door, call me on the phone, take me out on a date, and let’s enjoy each other’s company. If you think this is too much to ask, then we aren’t ever going to date and I’m fine with that.
HAPPY DATING AND I’LL SEE YOU OUTSIDE.
Let me know your thoughts...Add a comment. And type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the hilarious and best-selling novel, Single Girl Summer. If you're African-American, it's the black girls' "Sex and the City." If you're not black, it's "Sex and the City...Chicago style." Download it today! (P.S. If you're trying to date me, you better buy 10 books and give them as gifts...LBVS)
To further clarify, I’m not in a committed relationship and I’m entertaining offers. I have a few gentlemen callers who are in my dating peripheral (which means we correspond occasionally, but I’m not taking them seriously) and for the life of them, they can’t figure out why we aren’t dating.
Since I feel no need to explain the obvious to a grown man, I usually ignore them when they ask "what’s up with us?". But I thought it would make an interesting topic for my blog, so here are the reasons we aren’t dating:
1) YOU DON’T CALL ME. Facebook messages and texts are cool for homies, but if you’re seriously trying to date me, I expect you to pick up the phone and have actual vocal conversations with me. FB and text messages are easy. You can multi-task a message to me and ten other girls at the same time. You can’t have a quality conversation with multiple people and I can tell a quality conversation so if you want to stand out, call me. Let me know you’re taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to me. Show me you want to hear my voice and want me to hear yours. If we never talk on the phone, we aren’t ever going to date.
2) YOU DON’T TAKE ME OUT. I’ve never dated online because I don’t have to. I’m a fun, active woman. I love going outside and meeting people face-to-face so I’m not going to have a virtual relationship with you. If our only interaction is text messages or private Facebook chats, then you aren’t worth my time. I like to see the men I’m dating. I want to hear your words and match them to your facial expressions. It’s a lot easier to tell if someone is lying in person and I like to weed out the bullshit asap. If we never go out on dates, we aren’t ever going to date. It’s redundant, but you’d be amazed at how many men don’t understand this concept.
3) YOU DON’T ROMANCE ME ON SPECIAL DAYS. Christmas and New Year's are just around corner. After that is Valentine's Day and then my birthday (which I consider a national holiday) is a week and two days after V-Day. If you call yourself trying to date me, but aren't asking me out for any (preferably all) of those romantic holidays, then we have nothing to talk about. Again, you would think that’s obvious, but I continue to be amazed that it’s not. If you aren’t putting forth your best efforts as a suitor on romantic holidays, we aren’t ever going to date.
Call me old-fashioned, but I like to be courted. I think gentlemen with manners are the sexiest things walking the earth. The people who say there’s a man shortage are wrong. There are plenty of great options out here. Yes, I got options. Yes, I’m entertaining offers. No, I’m not settling for any ole’ half-relationship. If you want to take Single Girl Summer off the market, bring me flowers, hug me tight and close, walk on the outside of the sidewalk, open my car door, call me on the phone, take me out on a date, and let’s enjoy each other’s company. If you think this is too much to ask, then we aren’t ever going to date and I’m fine with that.
HAPPY DATING AND I’LL SEE YOU OUTSIDE.
Let me know your thoughts...Add a comment. And type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the hilarious and best-selling novel, Single Girl Summer. If you're African-American, it's the black girls' "Sex and the City." If you're not black, it's "Sex and the City...Chicago style." Download it today! (P.S. If you're trying to date me, you better buy 10 books and give them as gifts...LBVS)
November 30, 2013
It's Small Business Saturday...Let's Shop
From the AMEX website: Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country. Founded by American Express in 2010, this day is celebrated every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This year, Small Business Saturday is on November 30th.
Small businesses employ 57% of the country's private workforce. They are the lifeblood of our economy. They are also a necessity for building a resilient, sustainable economy and diversity. Big box stores are squeezing out the local retailer and those monstrosities are also making us all look like homogenous zombies.
I encourage everyone to participate in this great event and here are a couple of tips to maximize the experience:
1) If you aren't a big shopper, then have a delicious meal at a local eatery, beauty service at a spa, enjoy at play at a local theatre house, or purchase some reading material from a local bookstore or author.
2) Small businesses greatly appreciate when you make your purchases cash. Credit card/debit card fees reduce profits!
3) Visit some of your favorite local retailers and take this time to find some new favorites. The AMEX website has lists of retailers and check with friends and social media for more recommendations. Click here for the AMEX Where To Shop List.
4) While you're supporting local retailers, check in on your social media platforms. Advertising can be expensive so if you recommend the store, help spread the word. Word of mouth matters.
5) Speaking of word of mouth, remember everyone isn't on social media so they can't enjoy your instagram pix. Go old school and share your experience the old-fashioned way...Buy two or three items and give them as gifts.
7) Don't just shop small today...make it a point to shop small at least once a week. Pick a few favorite retailers and become a regular.
"Every major company was once a small business. Consider the garage days for the founders of Microsoft and Apple." (From 18 Amazing Facts About Small Businesses in America)
Instead of "small" businesses, I prefer to call them local businesses. Local businesses are the back bone of our community and when you support them, you support all the things that make our community great. Now get our there and shop local!
Deanna Burrell is the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.
Small businesses employ 57% of the country's private workforce. They are the lifeblood of our economy. They are also a necessity for building a resilient, sustainable economy and diversity. Big box stores are squeezing out the local retailer and those monstrosities are also making us all look like homogenous zombies.
I encourage everyone to participate in this great event and here are a couple of tips to maximize the experience:
1) If you aren't a big shopper, then have a delicious meal at a local eatery, beauty service at a spa, enjoy at play at a local theatre house, or purchase some reading material from a local bookstore or author.
2) Small businesses greatly appreciate when you make your purchases cash. Credit card/debit card fees reduce profits!
3) Visit some of your favorite local retailers and take this time to find some new favorites. The AMEX website has lists of retailers and check with friends and social media for more recommendations. Click here for the AMEX Where To Shop List.
4) While you're supporting local retailers, check in on your social media platforms. Advertising can be expensive so if you recommend the store, help spread the word. Word of mouth matters.
5) Speaking of word of mouth, remember everyone isn't on social media so they can't enjoy your instagram pix. Go old school and share your experience the old-fashioned way...Buy two or three items and give them as gifts.
7) Don't just shop small today...make it a point to shop small at least once a week. Pick a few favorite retailers and become a regular.
"Every major company was once a small business. Consider the garage days for the founders of Microsoft and Apple." (From 18 Amazing Facts About Small Businesses in America)
Instead of "small" businesses, I prefer to call them local businesses. Local businesses are the back bone of our community and when you support them, you support all the things that make our community great. Now get our there and shop local!
Deanna Burrell is the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.
July 14, 2013
The Trayvon Martin Verdict is a Wake-up Call
George Zimmerman has been acquitted and I’ve been on Facebook all night airing my thoughts and discussing with others. As an African-American woman and an eternal optimist, I’m so disappointed by this miscarriage of justice. This verdict is definitely a wake-up call for America. And as a devoted defender of those who cannot defend themselves as Trayvon Martin no longer can, I want to share my thoughts from my various Facebook posts:
What about Trayvon's right to stand his ground? My heart bleeds for Trayvon's family and all our black men. But what comes around goes around. Zimmerman will reap what he sowed.
Michael Vick served 21 months in jail for a dog fighting ring. Zimmerman gets no jail time for stalking and killing an unarmed teenager. #NoJustice
I am surprised by the verdict. With a jury of 6 women, I was hoping that they would see Travyon and see their own sons. Unfortunately, they did not see and appreciate the value of a young black man. But at the end of the day, this is a wake-up call for Black America. We need to stop letting America take us for granted. Black Americans are not respected because we do not demand respect. I was planning a trip to Miami but I am officially boycotting the state of Florida. Our money is our power. It's our voice. When Dr. King told us to stop riding the Montgomery buses because they made us ride in the back, we hit them in the pocket and change happened. Florida is officially on my boycott list. #BoycottFlorida
America is still our country. The English settlers stole us from African and our blood, sweat, and bodies built America's industries and commerce. We have had to fight for everything. We have had to fight for our rights, our respect, and our equality. From Kunta Kinte, Emmett Till to Trayvon Martin, this is our struggle. This is our wake up call. We have to protect our children and we have to make America respect us. We are not second-class citizens. We deserve justice. American is my home and I have to make it accountable for injustices against my people. Change starts with me. #BoycottFlorida
If America doesn't respect you, it's because you have not demanded her respect. She does not fear your wrath. She thinks she can treat you any way she wants and you won't do crap. You won't vote in her elections, you won't oppose her unjust laws, you won't boycott her inequalities. She can kick you and you will thank her and go back for more. If you America doesn't respect you, that's your fault. I look at the LGBT and Hispanic communities demanding equal rights and immigration reform. They rally their communities and make America legislate on their behalf. America does not respect Black people because Black people have forgotten our power. We marched on Washington for jobs! We boycotted Montgomery buses! We integrated schools! We demanded affirmative action! We stuck together, struggled and we made America answer to us. We need to march to Washington and demand justice for Trayvon Martin!
So what do we do now? We need to reestablish the value of black life, especially the life of black men. Not only are white men stalking and killing our black boys but our black men and boys are killing each other. We need to teach our young men that they are important, valuable, and we need them. We need them to grow, prosper, and contribute to our communities. We need them to love each other and work together. We need to stop putting them in jail. We need to educate them. We need to employ them. We need to rally around them. What do we do now? We speak words of encouragement to them. We mentor them. We pray for them.
So what do we do now? Urge the Department of Justice to file civil rights charges against George Zimmerman. Thank you NAACP. Sign the petition and share.
Riots are not effective. Riots don't help the cause. Riots attract idiots and opportunists who have nothing to lose and just want a free TV. Not strategic thinkers and change makers. The west side of Chicago is still littered with all the buildings that were burned down when Dr. King was assassinated. The white neighborhoods are not still devastated from the Dr. King riots, but the black communities have not been rebuilt. Boycotts, rallies and civil disobedience separate the people dedicated to change from the people just looking for a come up. The revolution should be organized. Note the word civil in civil rights movement. What would Dr. King do? He would not want us riot. He would want us to organize.
There is always something you can do. The moment you think there is nothing you can do, that's when you are defeated. They may win a battle, but we are fighting a war. It's not a sprint it's a marathon. Stay in it for the long haul. Sign the NACCP petition.
My boycott list: Donald Trump properties, Paula Deen anything and Florida until they repel 'Stand Your Ground' and bring George Zimmerman to justice.
After the Zimmerman acquittal, I'm boycotting Florida. I had a great time at the NABJ convention in New Orleans last year and I was thinking about going this year, but now I can't because it's in Florida. I know it would be inconvenient, but what a powerful statement it would make it NABJ moved the convention from Florida. Just a thought.
I didn't watch the trial. The prosecution may not have done the best job, but at the end of the day a man stalked and killed an unarmed black boy even after he was told to stand down. Common sense says that it was murder instigated by Zimmerman's racial profiling. I would be very nervous being a black person walking around in Florida because now any person can feel justified standing their ground and killing you for no reason. I also feel nervous in some areas in Chicago were gun violence is rampant. And I don't go places were I am scared for my life. #BoycottFlorida
At the end of the day, I feel sorry for Zimmerman. Racism is rooted in ignorance and self-hatred. Racist don't feel worthy so they have to pull other people down. Zimmerman may have been acquitted, but he is not free. He will have to watch his back for the rest of his life and he will forever have Trayvon's blood on his hands. He is misguided and I will forgive and pray for him. That may sound weird to pray for Zimmerman, but until he gets right, he is dangerous to anyone around him. #addingtomyprayerlist
Add a comment and let me know your thoughts. And type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the novel Single Girl Summer.
What about Trayvon's right to stand his ground? My heart bleeds for Trayvon's family and all our black men. But what comes around goes around. Zimmerman will reap what he sowed.
Michael Vick served 21 months in jail for a dog fighting ring. Zimmerman gets no jail time for stalking and killing an unarmed teenager. #NoJustice
I am surprised by the verdict. With a jury of 6 women, I was hoping that they would see Travyon and see their own sons. Unfortunately, they did not see and appreciate the value of a young black man. But at the end of the day, this is a wake-up call for Black America. We need to stop letting America take us for granted. Black Americans are not respected because we do not demand respect. I was planning a trip to Miami but I am officially boycotting the state of Florida. Our money is our power. It's our voice. When Dr. King told us to stop riding the Montgomery buses because they made us ride in the back, we hit them in the pocket and change happened. Florida is officially on my boycott list. #BoycottFlorida
America is still our country. The English settlers stole us from African and our blood, sweat, and bodies built America's industries and commerce. We have had to fight for everything. We have had to fight for our rights, our respect, and our equality. From Kunta Kinte, Emmett Till to Trayvon Martin, this is our struggle. This is our wake up call. We have to protect our children and we have to make America respect us. We are not second-class citizens. We deserve justice. American is my home and I have to make it accountable for injustices against my people. Change starts with me. #BoycottFlorida
If America doesn't respect you, it's because you have not demanded her respect. She does not fear your wrath. She thinks she can treat you any way she wants and you won't do crap. You won't vote in her elections, you won't oppose her unjust laws, you won't boycott her inequalities. She can kick you and you will thank her and go back for more. If you America doesn't respect you, that's your fault. I look at the LGBT and Hispanic communities demanding equal rights and immigration reform. They rally their communities and make America legislate on their behalf. America does not respect Black people because Black people have forgotten our power. We marched on Washington for jobs! We boycotted Montgomery buses! We integrated schools! We demanded affirmative action! We stuck together, struggled and we made America answer to us. We need to march to Washington and demand justice for Trayvon Martin!
So what do we do now? We need to reestablish the value of black life, especially the life of black men. Not only are white men stalking and killing our black boys but our black men and boys are killing each other. We need to teach our young men that they are important, valuable, and we need them. We need them to grow, prosper, and contribute to our communities. We need them to love each other and work together. We need to stop putting them in jail. We need to educate them. We need to employ them. We need to rally around them. What do we do now? We speak words of encouragement to them. We mentor them. We pray for them.
So what do we do now? Urge the Department of Justice to file civil rights charges against George Zimmerman. Thank you NAACP. Sign the petition and share.
Riots are not effective. Riots don't help the cause. Riots attract idiots and opportunists who have nothing to lose and just want a free TV. Not strategic thinkers and change makers. The west side of Chicago is still littered with all the buildings that were burned down when Dr. King was assassinated. The white neighborhoods are not still devastated from the Dr. King riots, but the black communities have not been rebuilt. Boycotts, rallies and civil disobedience separate the people dedicated to change from the people just looking for a come up. The revolution should be organized. Note the word civil in civil rights movement. What would Dr. King do? He would not want us riot. He would want us to organize.
There is always something you can do. The moment you think there is nothing you can do, that's when you are defeated. They may win a battle, but we are fighting a war. It's not a sprint it's a marathon. Stay in it for the long haul. Sign the NACCP petition.
My boycott list: Donald Trump properties, Paula Deen anything and Florida until they repel 'Stand Your Ground' and bring George Zimmerman to justice.
After the Zimmerman acquittal, I'm boycotting Florida. I had a great time at the NABJ convention in New Orleans last year and I was thinking about going this year, but now I can't because it's in Florida. I know it would be inconvenient, but what a powerful statement it would make it NABJ moved the convention from Florida. Just a thought.
I didn't watch the trial. The prosecution may not have done the best job, but at the end of the day a man stalked and killed an unarmed black boy even after he was told to stand down. Common sense says that it was murder instigated by Zimmerman's racial profiling. I would be very nervous being a black person walking around in Florida because now any person can feel justified standing their ground and killing you for no reason. I also feel nervous in some areas in Chicago were gun violence is rampant. And I don't go places were I am scared for my life. #BoycottFlorida
At the end of the day, I feel sorry for Zimmerman. Racism is rooted in ignorance and self-hatred. Racist don't feel worthy so they have to pull other people down. Zimmerman may have been acquitted, but he is not free. He will have to watch his back for the rest of his life and he will forever have Trayvon's blood on his hands. He is misguided and I will forgive and pray for him. That may sound weird to pray for Zimmerman, but until he gets right, he is dangerous to anyone around him. #addingtomyprayerlist
Add a comment and let me know your thoughts. And type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the novel Single Girl Summer.
April 3, 2013
Fall in Love with Aniba Hoteb and The Sol Collective
February 13, 2013 fell on a Wednesday. With all the 13's and cold weather, most people went straight home after work and curled up in front of the TV. But since I've always claimed 13 as one of my lucky numbers (I love misfits) and being inside my house for too many consecutive hours gives me cabin fever, I decided to have a Red Cup Adventure and found that 2/13/13 was indeed my lucky day.
I left the office early to meet up with one of my clients who was working at the Auto Show. Then I went to hear one of my favorite storytellers at a spoken word event at Beauty Bar. My last stop was an event at the Shrine featuring Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Tone! (one of my favorite bands) and live performances from some other artists I hadn't heard of before. Shrine is one of my favorite venues because I love live music and Shrine keeps a wonderful roster of artists on their stage. After Beauty Bar, my fatigue was setting in and I had an early meeting, but I decided to rally and at least slide through the Shrine. I made the rounds, showed my face, got my hugs, and was about to leave when these stunning three women took the stage with a full band. They all had beautiful afros, shapely figures, and dramatic red and black dresses. With my intrigue piqued, I decided to stay for the performance and that's when 2/13/13 became my lucky day because I fell in love with ANIBA HOTEP & THE SOL COLLECTIVE.
Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective is a Chicago based Soul/R&B band comprised of 8 members. The lead is songwriter and vocal powerhouse, Aniba Hotep which means "Messenger of Peace". Her soulful southern tones are harmonized with songbirds Neri Ma’at and Caress Sahura. The five musicians are equally as powerful and melodious as the singers. The band performed an amazing remake of Chaka Khan's "Sweet Thang" that I'm still singing in my head months later. The performance was a soulful journey featuring popular covers and original material. I literally fell in love. After they finished, I went over to the ladies to let them know how much I enjoyed the performance and found out that I went to high school with one of the singers, Neri Ma'at.
Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective is a local, independent band that has performed at high profile events and venues include The House Of Blues, The Shrine, The NAACP Gala, The African festival, The Glenwood festival, Real Men Cook, The Stepppenwolf Theater, The Mayne Stage Theater, and many more. They have a strong following and regularly pack the house wherever they perform. They have headlined and shared the stage with multi-platinum artists, such as Chaka Khan, Mint Condition, Dwayne Wiggins, Silk, Carl Thomas, Gerald Alston of the Manhattans, The Drifters, Cynda Williams of Spike Lee’s Mo Betta Blues fame and most recently Les Nubians. Lead singer Aniba Hotep recently won TV One's "Are You Unsung" contest.
This week on Thursday and Friday (April 4th and 5th), Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective are performing a 2-day benefit concert called the "I Know You Got Sol" Tour at the Jacob Carruthers Center (700 East Oakwood Blvd). Both shows begin at 730pm. The goal of the concert is to raise money for their upcoming tour dates in Atlanta and London. There are so few bands left that produce great soul music so I'm encouraging everyone to support this wonderful group. I know you'll fall in love too.
You can purchase tickets or give a donation by clicking here.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.
If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to my Red Cup Adventures blog. Type your email address in the box and click the "create subscription" button. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
I left the office early to meet up with one of my clients who was working at the Auto Show. Then I went to hear one of my favorite storytellers at a spoken word event at Beauty Bar. My last stop was an event at the Shrine featuring Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Tone! (one of my favorite bands) and live performances from some other artists I hadn't heard of before. Shrine is one of my favorite venues because I love live music and Shrine keeps a wonderful roster of artists on their stage. After Beauty Bar, my fatigue was setting in and I had an early meeting, but I decided to rally and at least slide through the Shrine. I made the rounds, showed my face, got my hugs, and was about to leave when these stunning three women took the stage with a full band. They all had beautiful afros, shapely figures, and dramatic red and black dresses. With my intrigue piqued, I decided to stay for the performance and that's when 2/13/13 became my lucky day because I fell in love with ANIBA HOTEP & THE SOL COLLECTIVE.
Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective is a Chicago based Soul/R&B band comprised of 8 members. The lead is songwriter and vocal powerhouse, Aniba Hotep which means "Messenger of Peace". Her soulful southern tones are harmonized with songbirds Neri Ma’at and Caress Sahura. The five musicians are equally as powerful and melodious as the singers. The band performed an amazing remake of Chaka Khan's "Sweet Thang" that I'm still singing in my head months later. The performance was a soulful journey featuring popular covers and original material. I literally fell in love. After they finished, I went over to the ladies to let them know how much I enjoyed the performance and found out that I went to high school with one of the singers, Neri Ma'at.
Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective performing "Sweet Thang" at the Shrine
Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective is a local, independent band that has performed at high profile events and venues include The House Of Blues, The Shrine, The NAACP Gala, The African festival, The Glenwood festival, Real Men Cook, The Stepppenwolf Theater, The Mayne Stage Theater, and many more. They have a strong following and regularly pack the house wherever they perform. They have headlined and shared the stage with multi-platinum artists, such as Chaka Khan, Mint Condition, Dwayne Wiggins, Silk, Carl Thomas, Gerald Alston of the Manhattans, The Drifters, Cynda Williams of Spike Lee’s Mo Betta Blues fame and most recently Les Nubians. Lead singer Aniba Hotep recently won TV One's "Are You Unsung" contest.
This week on Thursday and Friday (April 4th and 5th), Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective are performing a 2-day benefit concert called the "I Know You Got Sol" Tour at the Jacob Carruthers Center (700 East Oakwood Blvd). Both shows begin at 730pm. The goal of the concert is to raise money for their upcoming tour dates in Atlanta and London. There are so few bands left that produce great soul music so I'm encouraging everyone to support this wonderful group. I know you'll fall in love too.
You can purchase tickets or give a donation by clicking here.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer.
If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to my Red Cup Adventures blog. Type your email address in the box and click the "create subscription" button. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
April 1, 2013
Lollapalooza 2013 Line Up
Summer's coming. It's Chicago so of course Winter kicked Spring in the balls again and the chilly temps are dragging on forever. But Easter just passed so I know Summer will get here eventually and I just saw the Lollapolooza line up so I'm getting my Red Cups ready for some SummertimeChi adventures. Lollapalooza is described on the website as "115 Acres of Non-Stop Action Over 3 Magical Days." The three day passes are sold out, but the 1 day passes go on sale Wednesday, April 3rd. I've never been to Lollapalooza and I'm interested in checking out Kendrick Lamar on Saturday. In case you missed it, here's the line-up:
FRIDAY
The Killers
Nine Inch Nails
New Order
Queens Of The Stone Age
Steve Aoki
Thievery Corporation
Lana Del Rey
Flux Pavilion
Band Of Horses
Hot Chip
Crystal Castles
Imagine Dragons
Frightened Rabbit
Dillon Francis
Smith Westerns
Disclosure
Father John Misty
Ghost B.C.
Modestep
Emeli Sande
Jessie Ware
Atlas Genius
Timeflies
Theophilus London
Monsta
IO Echo
Icona Pop
Chance The Rapper
Lance Herbstrong
Robert DeLong
Deap Vally
Twenty One Pilots
San Cisco
Hey Marseilles
Keys N Krates
The Neighbourhood
Pacific Air
American Authors
Houndmouth
Brick + Mortar
D-Pryde
Brite Lite Brite
SATURDAY
Mumford & Sons
The Postal Service
The National
The Lumineers
Kendrick Lamar
Eric Church
Steve Angello
Ellie Goulding
Azealia Banks
Local Natives
Dada Life
Matt & Kim
Foals
Death Grips
Court Yard Hounds
Adventure Club
Ben Howard
GriZ
Charles Bradley
Heartless Bastards
Baauer
HAIM
Unknown Mortal Orchestra
St. Lucia
Shovels & Rope
Little Green Cars
Family of the Year
360
The Bright Light Social Hour
Reignwolf
Pujol
Planet Hemp
Cole Plante
Lukas Nelson & P.O.T.R.
Blondfire
Frontier Ruckus
Wheeler Brothers
The Dunwells
Supreme Cuts
Cherub
Wild Cub
Brooke Waggoner
Beast Patrol
SUNDAY
The Cure
Phoenix
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February 26, 2013
Michelle Obama at the Oscars
I was pleasantly surprised when Michelle Obama popped up to present the Academy Award for Best Picture via satellite. I thought to myself: 1) finally something semi-exciting is happening and 2) what an efficient use of her time and my tax dollars. The job of the FLOTUS is to be an ambassador of good will and happy times. Since it’s estimated that over 1 billion people around the world watched the Oscars, it seemed to me the perfect venue for her to make an appearance. Plus, she seems pretty current on pop culture so I would image she was going to watch the show anyway. Why not up the ante with a cameo? And as a tax paying American, I appreciated that she didn’t use the Secret Service, Air Force 2 (or whatever plane she flies on), and countless other resources to show up and present in person. She did it via satellite. I thought, “Damn, that first lady is cool” and then I forgot all about it because at the end of my day, it’s not a big deal. She didn’t excuse herself from running the country or from a NATO convention to crown Argo the big winner. She was just being a good and strategic ambassador. #WellPlayed
Now the Huffington Post reports that some people (AKA conservatives) are harshly criticizing the FLOTUS’ video appearance at the Oscars.
"Bill O'Reilly harshly criticized Obama's appearance and described her participation as ‘Hollywood left boosterism’ that was aimed as ‘propaganda to make [the Obamas look] glamorous.’ He commented on how other first ladies did not participate in the awards in such a way. ‘Laura Bush would never at any time have introduced any award,’ he said.
MSNBC's Donny Deutsch appeared on Piers Morgan's show and told the CNN host that he thought Obama was an ‘uninvited guest.’ He said that he would have liked to see more Jack Nicholson and did not appreciate what he considered a political moment during a night honoring the best in entertainment.
The Huffington Post also reported that not only did Laura Bush participate in the 2002 Oscars, but also two presidents have participated. When Mrs. Obama cut her bangs it was a top news story and when she wears a piece of clothing, it immediately sells out from whatever department store, so I’m pretty sure she’s already glamorous. So Bill O’Reilly is wrong (surprise, surprise). Furthermore, I’m confident Mrs. Obama didn’t threatened to drop a nuke on Hollywood if they didn’t let her participate. I feel good about assuming that the Academy called her office and she was an invited guest so Donny Deutsch is more than likely wrong. (But, Jennifer Lawrence will probably agree with him that it would’ve been nice to see more Jack Nicholson.)
Nevertheless, their idiotic blabber reminds me of the old adage to not make a “mountain out of a molehill.” Bill and Donny clearly need to get a life. Speaking of getting a life, I then began to wonder what my life would be like if I were FLOTUS. A devilish grin crossed my lips and then my mind just ran away with the possibilities.
Seriously, if Bill and Donny want to chastise the First Lady for video conferencing into the Oscars, then they would have a field day with me. If I were First Lady of the United States…If the man I laid down with every night held the highest political office in this land…If he were on his second term and we didn’t have to worry about a re-election campaign…If he were already guaranteed a pension and royalties from three best-selling books…OMG…If I were FLOTUS, I would lose my natural born mind.
I would be so obnoxious, loud, combative, and uncouth. I would throw up in your face how my husband can nuke your ass into next week or my secret service peeps can make it seem like you never existed in the blink of an eye. I would so hang out with Beyonce and Jay-Z. I would even invite Kim and Kayne to the White House just to piss everyone off. I would paint the White House black. I would let my uncle Sanford park this raggedy pick up truck on the lawn. I would sell naming right to every branch of the government. (Excuse Mr. Speaker, this is now the PepsiCo House of Representatives. And if I have to remind you one more time to call it the Verizon Oval Office, Imma have my husband drop your ass in a North Korea prison camp.) Seriously, you couldn’t tell me nothing. My husband is in his second term and I don’t really have to worry about approval ratings anymore. What! What!
I would get into party promotion with Sean Puffy Combs. Since I’ve painted the White House black, we would start a new tradition of an annual “Black and White party” sponsored by Ciroc and FLOTUS. I would make everyone agree that I created the title FLOTUS since it’s so cool and I want to have that as my legacy kinda like Al Gore has the internet. I would bitch slap reporters and paparazzi who write mean things or take inappropriate/unflattering pictures of me and my family. I would literally be out of control. I wouldn’t try to institute Universal Health Care like Hillary Clinton or encourage fat kids to move like Mrs. Obama. I would be too busy shaking down every hip designer for free clothes and shoes and getting invited to every hot party IN THE WORLD!
So if the worst thing idiots like Bill O’Reilly and Donny Deutsch can criticize about Mrs. Obama is that she made a cameo appearance at the Oscars, then I say (in my Jack Nicholson voice) “Wait til they get a load of me.”
But maybe that's just me. What would you do? Add a comment and let me know. And type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
Now the Huffington Post reports that some people (AKA conservatives) are harshly criticizing the FLOTUS’ video appearance at the Oscars.
"Bill O'Reilly harshly criticized Obama's appearance and described her participation as ‘Hollywood left boosterism’ that was aimed as ‘propaganda to make [the Obamas look] glamorous.’ He commented on how other first ladies did not participate in the awards in such a way. ‘Laura Bush would never at any time have introduced any award,’ he said.
MSNBC's Donny Deutsch appeared on Piers Morgan's show and told the CNN host that he thought Obama was an ‘uninvited guest.’ He said that he would have liked to see more Jack Nicholson and did not appreciate what he considered a political moment during a night honoring the best in entertainment.
The Huffington Post also reported that not only did Laura Bush participate in the 2002 Oscars, but also two presidents have participated. When Mrs. Obama cut her bangs it was a top news story and when she wears a piece of clothing, it immediately sells out from whatever department store, so I’m pretty sure she’s already glamorous. So Bill O’Reilly is wrong (surprise, surprise). Furthermore, I’m confident Mrs. Obama didn’t threatened to drop a nuke on Hollywood if they didn’t let her participate. I feel good about assuming that the Academy called her office and she was an invited guest so Donny Deutsch is more than likely wrong. (But, Jennifer Lawrence will probably agree with him that it would’ve been nice to see more Jack Nicholson.)
Nevertheless, their idiotic blabber reminds me of the old adage to not make a “mountain out of a molehill.” Bill and Donny clearly need to get a life. Speaking of getting a life, I then began to wonder what my life would be like if I were FLOTUS. A devilish grin crossed my lips and then my mind just ran away with the possibilities.
Seriously, if Bill and Donny want to chastise the First Lady for video conferencing into the Oscars, then they would have a field day with me. If I were First Lady of the United States…If the man I laid down with every night held the highest political office in this land…If he were on his second term and we didn’t have to worry about a re-election campaign…If he were already guaranteed a pension and royalties from three best-selling books…OMG…If I were FLOTUS, I would lose my natural born mind.
I would be so obnoxious, loud, combative, and uncouth. I would throw up in your face how my husband can nuke your ass into next week or my secret service peeps can make it seem like you never existed in the blink of an eye. I would so hang out with Beyonce and Jay-Z. I would even invite Kim and Kayne to the White House just to piss everyone off. I would paint the White House black. I would let my uncle Sanford park this raggedy pick up truck on the lawn. I would sell naming right to every branch of the government. (Excuse Mr. Speaker, this is now the PepsiCo House of Representatives. And if I have to remind you one more time to call it the Verizon Oval Office, Imma have my husband drop your ass in a North Korea prison camp.) Seriously, you couldn’t tell me nothing. My husband is in his second term and I don’t really have to worry about approval ratings anymore. What! What!
I would get into party promotion with Sean Puffy Combs. Since I’ve painted the White House black, we would start a new tradition of an annual “Black and White party” sponsored by Ciroc and FLOTUS. I would make everyone agree that I created the title FLOTUS since it’s so cool and I want to have that as my legacy kinda like Al Gore has the internet. I would bitch slap reporters and paparazzi who write mean things or take inappropriate/unflattering pictures of me and my family. I would literally be out of control. I wouldn’t try to institute Universal Health Care like Hillary Clinton or encourage fat kids to move like Mrs. Obama. I would be too busy shaking down every hip designer for free clothes and shoes and getting invited to every hot party IN THE WORLD!
So if the worst thing idiots like Bill O’Reilly and Donny Deutsch can criticize about Mrs. Obama is that she made a cameo appearance at the Oscars, then I say (in my Jack Nicholson voice) “Wait til they get a load of me.”
But maybe that's just me. What would you do? Add a comment and let me know. And type your email address in the box, click the "create subscription" button, and sign-up for my blog alerts. My list is completely spam free, and you can opt out at any time.
February 11, 2013
Kanye West: Jerk or Genius?
This blog is inspired by a Facebook conversation I had after the Grammys. Warning: It's a long one, but interesting if you can take the time to finish it all. After the Grammys, my local CBS station aired a piece called "Teachers Reflect on Kanye West's Success". Here's some highlights from the story:
"When he was in his early teens, he predicted his success. CBS 2′s Jim Williams talked to his former teachers, and describes how Chicago helped make him a hip hop superstar. Before he won a slew of Grammys, before his romance with Kim Kardashian made him a tabloid sensation, Kanye West was high school student in southwest suburban Oak Lawn. “Just a regular little kid. He was so small and tiny,” said Dolores Tamborski, who worked in the school office...It was, at times, a challenge. West was a creative teenager, often distracted in class. “Absolutely, there were times during class where he would be doodling or drawing or writing,” said Baker. “Back then I would have called it poetry, but it was really rap.”...Eventually, Kanye created his own sound, using elements of Chicago’s rich and varied musical history...Some of his teacher said they were not surprised by some of his antics, such as interrupting Taylor Swift as she accepted a Video Music Award. They said even in high school he sometimes spoke out before he thought about the consequences."
I'm a creative spirit and I gravitate towards other's with like mind. So I really like Kanye. He's from my home town. He makes great music. And he causes a ruckus. In my first book, "Voted Most Creative", I have an essay called "Your Own TV Show" in which I describe how "I like to live my life like it's a TV show. Every week, I have to create and act in some entertaining adventures to keep my ratings up and my show on the air. With my family and friends, I have assembled a cast of characters. My life's TV Show is high comedy with a little romance, drama, and faith mixed in....Sometimes, when I don't have enough high jinxes to carry a whole episode alone, I lean on my dynamic supporting cast. Think about the show Seinfeld. My favorite character was Cosmo Kramer. Everyone needs a friend like Kramer. I love it when people ask me why I'm friends with someone they deem outrageous or inappropriate (i.e., not a bird of my feather). I always reply that we all need a Cosmo Kramer in our lives." Kanye West is a Cosmo Kramer. I would totally hang out with him and be half-embarrassed and half-amused the entire time. And my show's rating would be though the roof. (I guess Kim beat me to that. #Great minds.)
After seeing the piece on Kanye, I post on my Facebook page: Great moments in Black History: "George Bush doesn't care about Black people." - Kayne West. (Yes, I spelled his name wrong in the post and every post after that. You know what the hell I meant. Shut up. LOL.) The "Likes" started rolling in, but then a girl wrote this comment, "Sorry, but that was an embarrassing moment."
I wrote: It was embarrassing on many levels. One of the most important is that it shamed George Bush into finally helping the people of New Orleans. Before Kayne called him out, he just flew over the devastation. After Kayne, he finally went to New Orleans, got out of his plane, and helped the people. So in the end, Kanye's embarrassment helped a lot of people. Kanye may do a lot of foolish things, but you can never say he doesn't/didn't stand up for people who needed help and I will always respect him for that. Now, the Taylor Swift mic check...that was just embarrassing. But it helped her career because I had never heard of her and probably never would have until he catapulted her into Black history. And she was a hit on SNL making fun of what happened. Blame it on the alcohol...I know I've let the Goose talk me into doing a bunch of stupid stuff. Fortunately, I just never did it live on national TV. SHM at Kayne. LBVS. He's my favorite clown. #LemonsLemonade
She wrote: I don't know about that, Deanna. Til this day, I don't think GB cared about the people of NO then or now. I'm certain it wasn't Kanye who embarrassed him into going to NO. What made him finally get his butt out there IMO was his less than stellar poll ratings and the negative press. Then and only then did he decide to finally send help. Lets not forget the head if FEMA failed miserably.
I wrote: I completely agree with you. And I submit that it was Kanye's spotlight that made the media look and say, "You know that was ignorant, but Kanye has a point. Why isn't George Bush doing more?" And then they put GB's feet under the fire and he was forced to respond. #GodWorksInMysterousWays #WhenUSeeSomethingSaySomething
She wrote: Lol @ "you know that was ignorant..." Either way you spin it, it's sad that he had no compassion for the people of NO simply because it's a predominantly black city. Wonder how he would have handled Sandy.
My sister chimed in: But does Kanye care about black people...N**as in Paris.... Kim Kardashian..just wondering
She wrote: Hmmm.... Opportunist, maybe?
Another person chimed in: This is good!
I wrote: Let's have a toast to the Douchbag.
I just saw a story on Kanye on CBS local after the Grammys. They interviewed his teachers. They all said he has always been very impulsive. He thinks then he acts before considering the consequences. He's an artist. Many artist are quirky. They march to a different drummer and that's why they create beautiful work. They live outside the norm. He's a genius, but he's impulsive. #GeniusIsNotCommon...NeitherisSense
She wrote: True. It seems he hasn't had that humbling moment. Usually, at some point as they grow older, they mature, but he just gets more ridiculous. I just don't like him. Can't you tell? Lol
I wrote: Vincent Van Gogh was 35 when he cut off his ear.
"Born prematurely, [Sir Issac Newton] was a small child; his mother Hannah Ayscough reportedly said that he could have fit inside a quart mug. When Newton was three, his mother remarried and went to live with her new husband, the Reverend Barnabus Smith, leaving her son in the care of his maternal grandmother, Margery Ayscough. The young Isaac disliked his stepfather and maintained some enmity towards his mother for marrying him, as revealed by this entry in a list of sins committed up to the age of 19...Newton had been reluctant to publish his calculus because he feared controversy and criticism." #NewtonSmallChildDivorcedParentsCriticismGeniusKayne
I hope he never humbles himself, if humbling means he doesn't use his platform to speak out for those who don't have a voice. #JusticeAintAlwaysPretty #HeroesComeInAllShape&Sizes
My sister wrote: I wouldn't catapult him to genius level. I will give you narcissist. Maybe legend in his own mind. Although I do think he has talent. And you are right about the impulsive part because if he had given it some thought maybe he would have made a more profound statement about Katrina and Bush. He just sounded like a fool and all I could do was laugh.
I wrote: I think his GB moment was genius. Yes, he's a genius. Geniuses are often not appreciated in their time because they are usually weird and offensive. "His five solo albums, all of which have gone platinum, have received numerous awards and critical acclaim." Jesus Walks...GENIUS. He bought spiritually to the masses...to the streets...to the club....KANYE WEST #GENIUS.
She wrote: Yeah, Delena, I have to agree with you in that. That's why I said his comment during the Katrina fundraiser was embarrassing. He came across as an ignorant buffoon. He had the platform, but didnt use it well. And I'm not sure that he's voice for others, because Kanye only cares about Kanye. This could go on all night. Amazing how we all have different perspectives of that event.
I wrote: Early in his schooling, Albert Einstein "clashed with authorities and resented the school's regimen and teaching method. He later wrote that the spirit of learning and creative thought were lost in strict rote learning...After graduating, Einstein spent almost two frustrating years searching for a teaching post, but Marcel Grossmann's father helped him secure a job in Bern, at the Federal Office for Intellectual Property, the patent office, as an assistant examiner. He evaluated patent applications for electromagnetic devices. In 1903, Einstein's position at the Swiss Patent Office became permanent, although he was passed over for promotion until he "fully mastered machine technology". Genius challenges the norm. It goes against the grain. Genius is often not appreciated or understood by the masses.
My sister wrote: I like his music don't get me wrong but he reminds me of the little boy in the classroom who is always disturbing everyone to get attention. His genius is overshadowed by his obnoxiousness. The little stunts he pulls are like the kid saying look at me look at me. I think he is insecure quite frankly and appears to need validation from others to feel worthy. They did a course on Jay Z at some university. I think someone should do one on Kanye that would be interesting. Lets call it Jerk or Genius (TITLE OF THIS BLOG!). The story of Kanye West.
She wrote: Prince....GENIUS! Kanye...narcissistic, cocky, needs a hug & Jesus. Lol
I wrote: Genius doesn't learn like everyone else. Genius is often bored in traditional classroom settings because it's creativity is confined.
She wrote: Good debate and great points on both sides. This little chica has to be up early in the morn, so I bid you ladies a good night. Lets do this again :-)
I wrote: Prince is a genius too and he's considered weird too. He dresses up like a woman...in make up, ruffles, and high heeled boots. Much like Kanye wearing a leather skirt. Prince and Kanye are very much the same. But too bad when I think of Prince, nothing pops up in my head of him speaking out for Black people. He spoke out against his record label making him a slave, but did he extend his message and help individual/smaller artists? Did he help the people in New Orleans? Who's the narcissistic now? The artist who tried to help, but may not be polished and well spoken or the artist who did nothing? "She wrote (I'm not including her name)"..cool good night. Delena Burrell (I am including her name)...my sister always takes the opposite point that I take. I still love her to pieces and I still want my Daddy's records.
Fred Sanford...GENIUS. You Big Dummy. Kim and Kanye...changing the face of the Baby Momma for all time. Another great moment in Black History. Niggas in Paris...Genius. We gon skate to one song and one song only. We going banana...WHAT! It's provocative...It gets the people going. #GETTINGHYPEOVERHERE #LETSGO #BALLSOHARD
And that ended the tread. I would like to add that Kanye is a college drop-out. I went to Northwestern University and have worked in corporate America for over 15 years. I've been polished and buffed to a high shine. He has not. He has millions of dollars, fans, and contacts, but at the end of the day you need to remember...he's a college drop-out. Again...GENIUS. He realized college wasn't for him and he was ready to start making his dream happen. He stepped out on faith when everyone told him not to. I did the same thing. Last year, I quit a six-figure corporate job to pursue my dream of being an author and a creative spirit. And now I'm the happiest and most-fulfilled I've ever been.
I also would like to add that people need to stop judging and spreading negative energy.
John 8:7 He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
IN CONCLUSION: KANYE...GENIUS #JESUSWALKS
"We all need a Cosmo Kramer in our lives. Those are the people that keep life interesting with their wild adventures and off-the-beaten path perspectives. They keep you on your toes. You call them when you’re in a rut or a sad place and they drag you from your apartment and remind you that life is good. They take you somewhere you’ve never been before and probably will never go back to…but lo and behold, you have the best time hanging out with G.O.O.D. people and engaging in random activities. They remind you that life ain’t half bad. Actually, you’re doing pretty fuckin’ good. And if you’re a Kramer (Kanye), then God bless you. We should all have a little Kramer (Kanye) inside. Granted, it’s hard to be that entertaining and outrageous all the time, but sometimes you should just let loose. Bust in the door, slick back your hair (grab the mic), and say something that makes everyone stop and look. If not for you, then at least for your ratings." - Voted Most Creative
I hope one time Kanye comes home to Chicago, he looks me up and we can have a #SingleGirlSummer #KanyeKramer #SummerTimeChi #GOODLife #RedCupAdventure.
"When he was in his early teens, he predicted his success. CBS 2′s Jim Williams talked to his former teachers, and describes how Chicago helped make him a hip hop superstar. Before he won a slew of Grammys, before his romance with Kim Kardashian made him a tabloid sensation, Kanye West was high school student in southwest suburban Oak Lawn. “Just a regular little kid. He was so small and tiny,” said Dolores Tamborski, who worked in the school office...It was, at times, a challenge. West was a creative teenager, often distracted in class. “Absolutely, there were times during class where he would be doodling or drawing or writing,” said Baker. “Back then I would have called it poetry, but it was really rap.”...Eventually, Kanye created his own sound, using elements of Chicago’s rich and varied musical history...Some of his teacher said they were not surprised by some of his antics, such as interrupting Taylor Swift as she accepted a Video Music Award. They said even in high school he sometimes spoke out before he thought about the consequences."
I'm a creative spirit and I gravitate towards other's with like mind. So I really like Kanye. He's from my home town. He makes great music. And he causes a ruckus. In my first book, "Voted Most Creative", I have an essay called "Your Own TV Show" in which I describe how "I like to live my life like it's a TV show. Every week, I have to create and act in some entertaining adventures to keep my ratings up and my show on the air. With my family and friends, I have assembled a cast of characters. My life's TV Show is high comedy with a little romance, drama, and faith mixed in....Sometimes, when I don't have enough high jinxes to carry a whole episode alone, I lean on my dynamic supporting cast. Think about the show Seinfeld. My favorite character was Cosmo Kramer. Everyone needs a friend like Kramer. I love it when people ask me why I'm friends with someone they deem outrageous or inappropriate (i.e., not a bird of my feather). I always reply that we all need a Cosmo Kramer in our lives." Kanye West is a Cosmo Kramer. I would totally hang out with him and be half-embarrassed and half-amused the entire time. And my show's rating would be though the roof. (I guess Kim beat me to that. #Great minds.)
After seeing the piece on Kanye, I post on my Facebook page: Great moments in Black History: "George Bush doesn't care about Black people." - Kayne West. (Yes, I spelled his name wrong in the post and every post after that. You know what the hell I meant. Shut up. LOL.) The "Likes" started rolling in, but then a girl wrote this comment, "Sorry, but that was an embarrassing moment."
I wrote: It was embarrassing on many levels. One of the most important is that it shamed George Bush into finally helping the people of New Orleans. Before Kayne called him out, he just flew over the devastation. After Kayne, he finally went to New Orleans, got out of his plane, and helped the people. So in the end, Kanye's embarrassment helped a lot of people. Kanye may do a lot of foolish things, but you can never say he doesn't/didn't stand up for people who needed help and I will always respect him for that. Now, the Taylor Swift mic check...that was just embarrassing. But it helped her career because I had never heard of her and probably never would have until he catapulted her into Black history. And she was a hit on SNL making fun of what happened. Blame it on the alcohol...I know I've let the Goose talk me into doing a bunch of stupid stuff. Fortunately, I just never did it live on national TV. SHM at Kayne. LBVS. He's my favorite clown. #LemonsLemonade
She wrote: I don't know about that, Deanna. Til this day, I don't think GB cared about the people of NO then or now. I'm certain it wasn't Kanye who embarrassed him into going to NO. What made him finally get his butt out there IMO was his less than stellar poll ratings and the negative press. Then and only then did he decide to finally send help. Lets not forget the head if FEMA failed miserably.
I wrote: I completely agree with you. And I submit that it was Kanye's spotlight that made the media look and say, "You know that was ignorant, but Kanye has a point. Why isn't George Bush doing more?" And then they put GB's feet under the fire and he was forced to respond. #GodWorksInMysterousWays #WhenUSeeSomethingSaySomething
She wrote: Lol @ "you know that was ignorant..." Either way you spin it, it's sad that he had no compassion for the people of NO simply because it's a predominantly black city. Wonder how he would have handled Sandy.
My sister chimed in: But does Kanye care about black people...N**as in Paris.... Kim Kardashian..just wondering
She wrote: Hmmm.... Opportunist, maybe?
Another person chimed in: This is good!
I wrote: Let's have a toast to the Douchbag.
I just saw a story on Kanye on CBS local after the Grammys. They interviewed his teachers. They all said he has always been very impulsive. He thinks then he acts before considering the consequences. He's an artist. Many artist are quirky. They march to a different drummer and that's why they create beautiful work. They live outside the norm. He's a genius, but he's impulsive. #GeniusIsNotCommon...NeitherisSense
She wrote: True. It seems he hasn't had that humbling moment. Usually, at some point as they grow older, they mature, but he just gets more ridiculous. I just don't like him. Can't you tell? Lol
I wrote: Vincent Van Gogh was 35 when he cut off his ear.
"Born prematurely, [Sir Issac Newton] was a small child; his mother Hannah Ayscough reportedly said that he could have fit inside a quart mug. When Newton was three, his mother remarried and went to live with her new husband, the Reverend Barnabus Smith, leaving her son in the care of his maternal grandmother, Margery Ayscough. The young Isaac disliked his stepfather and maintained some enmity towards his mother for marrying him, as revealed by this entry in a list of sins committed up to the age of 19...Newton had been reluctant to publish his calculus because he feared controversy and criticism." #NewtonSmallChildDivorcedParentsCriticismGeniusKayne
I hope he never humbles himself, if humbling means he doesn't use his platform to speak out for those who don't have a voice. #JusticeAintAlwaysPretty #HeroesComeInAllShape&Sizes
My sister wrote: I wouldn't catapult him to genius level. I will give you narcissist. Maybe legend in his own mind. Although I do think he has talent. And you are right about the impulsive part because if he had given it some thought maybe he would have made a more profound statement about Katrina and Bush. He just sounded like a fool and all I could do was laugh.
I wrote: I think his GB moment was genius. Yes, he's a genius. Geniuses are often not appreciated in their time because they are usually weird and offensive. "His five solo albums, all of which have gone platinum, have received numerous awards and critical acclaim." Jesus Walks...GENIUS. He bought spiritually to the masses...to the streets...to the club....KANYE WEST #GENIUS.
She wrote: Yeah, Delena, I have to agree with you in that. That's why I said his comment during the Katrina fundraiser was embarrassing. He came across as an ignorant buffoon. He had the platform, but didnt use it well. And I'm not sure that he's voice for others, because Kanye only cares about Kanye. This could go on all night. Amazing how we all have different perspectives of that event.
I wrote: Early in his schooling, Albert Einstein "clashed with authorities and resented the school's regimen and teaching method. He later wrote that the spirit of learning and creative thought were lost in strict rote learning...After graduating, Einstein spent almost two frustrating years searching for a teaching post, but Marcel Grossmann's father helped him secure a job in Bern, at the Federal Office for Intellectual Property, the patent office, as an assistant examiner. He evaluated patent applications for electromagnetic devices. In 1903, Einstein's position at the Swiss Patent Office became permanent, although he was passed over for promotion until he "fully mastered machine technology". Genius challenges the norm. It goes against the grain. Genius is often not appreciated or understood by the masses.
My sister wrote: I like his music don't get me wrong but he reminds me of the little boy in the classroom who is always disturbing everyone to get attention. His genius is overshadowed by his obnoxiousness. The little stunts he pulls are like the kid saying look at me look at me. I think he is insecure quite frankly and appears to need validation from others to feel worthy. They did a course on Jay Z at some university. I think someone should do one on Kanye that would be interesting. Lets call it Jerk or Genius (TITLE OF THIS BLOG!). The story of Kanye West.
She wrote: Prince....GENIUS! Kanye...narcissistic, cocky, needs a hug & Jesus. Lol
I wrote: Genius doesn't learn like everyone else. Genius is often bored in traditional classroom settings because it's creativity is confined.
She wrote: Good debate and great points on both sides. This little chica has to be up early in the morn, so I bid you ladies a good night. Lets do this again :-)
I wrote: Prince is a genius too and he's considered weird too. He dresses up like a woman...in make up, ruffles, and high heeled boots. Much like Kanye wearing a leather skirt. Prince and Kanye are very much the same. But too bad when I think of Prince, nothing pops up in my head of him speaking out for Black people. He spoke out against his record label making him a slave, but did he extend his message and help individual/smaller artists? Did he help the people in New Orleans? Who's the narcissistic now? The artist who tried to help, but may not be polished and well spoken or the artist who did nothing? "She wrote (I'm not including her name)"..cool good night. Delena Burrell (I am including her name)...my sister always takes the opposite point that I take. I still love her to pieces and I still want my Daddy's records.
Fred Sanford...GENIUS. You Big Dummy. Kim and Kanye...changing the face of the Baby Momma for all time. Another great moment in Black History. Niggas in Paris...Genius. We gon skate to one song and one song only. We going banana...WHAT! It's provocative...It gets the people going. #GETTINGHYPEOVERHERE #LETSGO #BALLSOHARD
And that ended the tread. I would like to add that Kanye is a college drop-out. I went to Northwestern University and have worked in corporate America for over 15 years. I've been polished and buffed to a high shine. He has not. He has millions of dollars, fans, and contacts, but at the end of the day you need to remember...he's a college drop-out. Again...GENIUS. He realized college wasn't for him and he was ready to start making his dream happen. He stepped out on faith when everyone told him not to. I did the same thing. Last year, I quit a six-figure corporate job to pursue my dream of being an author and a creative spirit. And now I'm the happiest and most-fulfilled I've ever been.
I also would like to add that people need to stop judging and spreading negative energy.
John 8:7 He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
IN CONCLUSION: KANYE...GENIUS #JESUSWALKS
"We all need a Cosmo Kramer in our lives. Those are the people that keep life interesting with their wild adventures and off-the-beaten path perspectives. They keep you on your toes. You call them when you’re in a rut or a sad place and they drag you from your apartment and remind you that life is good. They take you somewhere you’ve never been before and probably will never go back to…but lo and behold, you have the best time hanging out with G.O.O.D. people and engaging in random activities. They remind you that life ain’t half bad. Actually, you’re doing pretty fuckin’ good. And if you’re a Kramer (Kanye), then God bless you. We should all have a little Kramer (Kanye) inside. Granted, it’s hard to be that entertaining and outrageous all the time, but sometimes you should just let loose. Bust in the door, slick back your hair (grab the mic), and say something that makes everyone stop and look. If not for you, then at least for your ratings." - Voted Most Creative
I hope one time Kanye comes home to Chicago, he looks me up and we can have a #SingleGirlSummer #KanyeKramer #SummerTimeChi #GOODLife #RedCupAdventure.
February 10, 2013
WVON To Host Forum on Violence in Chicago
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 8, 2013
Contact: Daveda Flute
(773) 824-1177
(773) 247-6200 ext. 420
WVON TO HOST FORUM ON VIOLENCE PLAGUING CHICAGO
----[Chicago, Illinois] WVON 1690AM, Chicago’s only Urban Talk station, is hosting a forum designed to examine solutions to the ongoing violence that is plaguing the city of Chicago. This informative discussion will include Nathaniel Pendleton, father of Hadiya Pendleton; Tio Hardiman, Director for Cure Violence Illinois; The Rev. Dr. Michael Pfleger, Senior Pastor of The Faith Community of Saint Sabina; Richard Wooten, member of the Chicago Police Department; Che’ Rhymefest Smith, recording artist, writer and community activist; Harold "Noonie G" Ward, former high ranking Gangster Disciple gang leader and members of the Guardian Angels. Chicago’s Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy has also been invited.
WHAT: The invite-only forum is being hosted by WVON’s talk show host Kendall Moore and will accommodate 100 selected audience members. The forum will air live on WVON.
WHEN: Monday February 11, 2013 at 6:00pm-8pm./CST
February 9, 2013
A Moment of Silence for Hadiya Pendleton
"Please" by Jay Adams featuring J. Ivy was remixed into a Tribute to Hadiya Pendleton. The lyrics of this song really touched me and on this day, that she is being laid to rest, I thought it would be appropriate to share.
How many children got to die before we wake up?
(Wake up, Wake up, Wake up)
How many jobs we got to lose before we break up?
(Wake up, Wake up, Wake up)
How many fathers gon' be gone from their children?
(Man up, Man up, Man up)
To let the streets go and raise them to be hoodlums.
PLEASE, PLEASE somebody give me an answer.
PLEASE take a moment of silence to remember Hadiya Pendleton and all our fallen angels. Something is wrong in our city and society.
We need to STOP THE MADNESS...PLEASE!
Here's the link to the live feed from her funeral which is taking place now:
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/livenow?id=7096082
How many children got to die before we wake up?
(Wake up, Wake up, Wake up)
How many jobs we got to lose before we break up?
(Wake up, Wake up, Wake up)
How many fathers gon' be gone from their children?
(Man up, Man up, Man up)
To let the streets go and raise them to be hoodlums.
PLEASE, PLEASE somebody give me an answer.
PLEASE take a moment of silence to remember Hadiya Pendleton and all our fallen angels. Something is wrong in our city and society.
We need to STOP THE MADNESS...PLEASE!
Here's the link to the live feed from her funeral which is taking place now:
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/livenow?id=7096082
February 6, 2013
Epic Fail Tales: Bad Valentine Gifts
Oh, Valentine’s Day is almost here. A time for monetizing our affections with expensive gifts and nights on the town. It’s a ripe opportunity to commercialize love and debate its gift-giving abilities. It just wouldn’t be Valentine’s if we (read I) didn’t say, “I love you” and then criticize the hell out of my gift/experience.
Yes, I’m a bit of a Valentine’s Day curmudgeon. I can honestly say I’ve never received a nice (read expensive) present or had a wonderfully romantic outing. Here are my top three Valentine Epic Fail Tales/Bad Gift Experiences.
He loved to golf. I got him a golf stand to hold his two bags, shoes, balls, towels, etc. He got me a garlic press because I said the 2 a.m. infomercial was cool. EPIC FAIL!
He loved music. I got him a couple of CDs by his favorite artist and put tickets to her upcoming show inside a touching card that I signed “Love, Deanna.” He got me a little white bear in a heart-covered shirt and card that read “Chocolate, Sex. Chocolate, Sex. Chocolate, Sex” on the outside. The inside read “You’re getting both tonight.” Signed, his initials. EPIC FAIL!
He loved football. I got him a Chicago Bears sweatshirt, T-shirt, and pajama pants. He got me earrings. My ears aren’t pierced. EPIC FAIL!
Maybe it's just me, my overactive imagination, and high expectations (read standards). I admit that sometimes I can be (as my family calls me) "particular". Maybe my experiences are the norm. Maybe it's just a sensitive girl thing. So I asked a couple of my guy friends about their worst V-day experiences:
He gave her flowers, candy, and a blue box jewelry. Since he had a pinched nerve in his back, she got him a bean body pillow and a single rose in a plastic case that he said she probably purchased from the man selling socks, wash cloths, and peanuts on the side of the expressway. EPIC FAIL!
He bought her a Coach purse and took her out to a nice dinner. She gave him a T-shirt with his fraternity’s emblem on the front. He loves his fraternity which is why he already had more than enough Greek paraphernalia. Not to mention, it wasn’t very romantic. He said it would have been better if she had on the shirt … and only the shirt. EPIC FAIL!
He gave her chocolates. She gave him chocolates. He told her don’t ever buy him chocolates again; he ain’t no woman. Next year, he vowed to give her a vacuum. EPIC FAIL!
In conclusion, I'm happy to report that it's not just me. (Yes, my misery loves company.)
Cupid's a-coming so get ready for high expectations, poor execution, and infinite disappointments. If you want a halfway decent shot of giving a good gift, keep it simple. Ladies, let your guy see you dressed in sexy (read slutty) lingerie. Guys, give her roses and a nice bracelet (not earrings). Good luck. You’re gonna need it.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer. She likes pina coladas, getting caught in the rain, the feel of the ocean, and the taste of the champagne. (Now is that really too much to ask?)
Yes, I’m a bit of a Valentine’s Day curmudgeon. I can honestly say I’ve never received a nice (read expensive) present or had a wonderfully romantic outing. Here are my top three Valentine Epic Fail Tales/Bad Gift Experiences.
He loved to golf. I got him a golf stand to hold his two bags, shoes, balls, towels, etc. He got me a garlic press because I said the 2 a.m. infomercial was cool. EPIC FAIL!
He loved music. I got him a couple of CDs by his favorite artist and put tickets to her upcoming show inside a touching card that I signed “Love, Deanna.” He got me a little white bear in a heart-covered shirt and card that read “Chocolate, Sex. Chocolate, Sex. Chocolate, Sex” on the outside. The inside read “You’re getting both tonight.” Signed, his initials. EPIC FAIL!
He loved football. I got him a Chicago Bears sweatshirt, T-shirt, and pajama pants. He got me earrings. My ears aren’t pierced. EPIC FAIL!
Maybe it's just me, my overactive imagination, and high expectations (read standards). I admit that sometimes I can be (as my family calls me) "particular". Maybe my experiences are the norm. Maybe it's just a sensitive girl thing. So I asked a couple of my guy friends about their worst V-day experiences:
He gave her flowers, candy, and a blue box jewelry. Since he had a pinched nerve in his back, she got him a bean body pillow and a single rose in a plastic case that he said she probably purchased from the man selling socks, wash cloths, and peanuts on the side of the expressway. EPIC FAIL!
He bought her a Coach purse and took her out to a nice dinner. She gave him a T-shirt with his fraternity’s emblem on the front. He loves his fraternity which is why he already had more than enough Greek paraphernalia. Not to mention, it wasn’t very romantic. He said it would have been better if she had on the shirt … and only the shirt. EPIC FAIL!
He gave her chocolates. She gave him chocolates. He told her don’t ever buy him chocolates again; he ain’t no woman. Next year, he vowed to give her a vacuum. EPIC FAIL!
In conclusion, I'm happy to report that it's not just me. (Yes, my misery loves company.)
Cupid's a-coming so get ready for high expectations, poor execution, and infinite disappointments. If you want a halfway decent shot of giving a good gift, keep it simple. Ladies, let your guy see you dressed in sexy (read slutty) lingerie. Guys, give her roses and a nice bracelet (not earrings). Good luck. You’re gonna need it.
Deanna Burrell is the author of the explosive novel, Single Girl Summer. She likes pina coladas, getting caught in the rain, the feel of the ocean, and the taste of the champagne. (Now is that really too much to ask?)
The Red Cup Adventures
Welcome to the Red Cup Adventures. You're probably wondering "Why the Red Cup Adventures"? Because they are the universal symbols of fun. They’re ambassadors of good times and the perfect decorative h
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