Police Punch California Teen After "Mistaking" Her for Machete Wielding Man

July 13, 2017, 12:15 pm

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Written by Tiffani Greenaway of MyMommyVents.com

Tatyana Hargrove was biking home after picking out a Father's Day gift when she stopped for a drink of water in the 103 degree heat. When she turned around, three Bakersfield, California police cars surrounded her.

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The 19-year old told her story in a viral Facebook video shared by the Bakersfield NAACP. Officers "mistook" Hargrove, a 5'2", 115lbs "soaking wet", 19 year old girl with braids — for a 5' 10", 170lb bald black man with a goatee who was allegedly threatening people with a machete outside a nearby grocery store.

“She appeared to be a male and matched the description of the suspect that had brandished the machete and was also within the same complex the suspect had fled to,” Christopher Moore, the arresting officer, wrote in a police report obtained by the Bakersfield Californian.

In the Facebook video, Hargrove, on crutches, describes how police demanded she hand over her backpack for a search. When she asked if they had a warrant, one officer pointed to a police dog. She says she was frightened and told them to take it. “I then got scared and then I was like, here, take the backpack, just take the backpack.”

Hargrove alleges that even though she complied, police grabbed her wrist and then punched her and threw her to the ground. An officer pinned her down with his knees while the K-9 “came and started eating at my leg.” She screamed for help. “I told him ‘I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe’ and then I started yelling out, ‘Somebody help me, somebody help me! They’re gonna kill me!’”

Arresting officers have a different story. Officer Moore's police report states that Hargrove tried to flee the scene after he pointed his firearm at her. “She turned and looked at me and said, ‘What you all stopping another black person for? I’m out of here,’” the officer wrote.

He claims that another officer approached the young lady and grabbed her hands to “gain control of her,” but she maneuvered around him, causing him to fall and become tangled in the bike before she “quickly turned over on top of Senior Officer Vasquez in a mounting position.” Moore acknowledged that Officer Vasquez punched Hargrove “one time in the mouth in an attempt to force her off of him,” before the dog was released.

Police claim they didn't know Hargrove was a girl until after she was handcuffed. “I asked what her name was and when she provided it as ‘Tatyana’ I said, ‘Don’t lie to me, that’s a girl’s name. What is your name?’” Moore says. “I’m a girl, I just don’t dress like one,” she responded.

Hargrove was arrested and charged with suspicion of resisting or delaying an officer and aggravated assault on an officer. No weapons were found in her backpack.

A Change.org petition has been created to have Hargrove’s charges dismissed, and a GoFundMe page is raising money for her medical bills and legal fees.

What can we do to prevent more situations like this from happening?

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Tiffani Greenaway is the wife and mom behind MyMommyVents, a New York city parenting blog. Her tips have been seen on Yahoo Parenting, Mommy Noire, and Fit Pregnancy. Find more of Tiffani's work at mymommyvents.com.

Facebook: https://facebook.com/mymommyvents

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mymommyvents

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mymommyvents/

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We're Loving This ‘Queen Sugar’ Issue Of Ebony Magazine

July 14, 2017, 8:20 am

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By Sharee Silerio

The second season of “Queen Sugar” is underway, with the Bordelon family gracing the screen with their superb acting chops, storylines that move the soul and cinematic snapshots that are reminiscent of dreams.

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Now is the perfect time to revel in the show that is black, and represents everything blackness is – complex, beautiful, strong, creative, spiritual, unique, powerful, limitless, evolving and divine.

“Queen Sugar” is the response to a lack of diversity in film and television, from the directors and cinematographers who bring the ideas to life, to the screenwriters who craft poetic scripts, and the characters that feel like people we know, maybe even ourselves.

No wonder more women tuned in to the premiere episode, making it the highest rated episode for the series so far.

Week after week, viewers mature, millennial and young adult alike dissect, enjoy and appreciate the brilliance that “Queen Sugar” is.

This month’s issue of Ebony magazine will do just that by dedicating its July/August cover issue to the Bordelon siblings – Charley (Dawn-Lyen Gardner), Nova (Rutina Wesley) and Ralph Angel (Kofi Siriboe).

According to Ebony.com, the issue features interviews with crew and cast members focused on diversity in Hollywood and authentic depictions of Black America.

In the interview, Siriboe, who plays Ralph Angel in the series, told Ebony, “I pull from my experiences as a Black man in America and all my brothers.”

Wesley, who plays Nova, said, “I love that she’s [Nova] really pretty unusual, and I think she’s flawed and very human. I love that I never quite know where she’s going. And I also love that anything is possible with Nova.”

Lyen-Gardner, who plays Charley on the show, said, “Charley’s strength is a little super heroic. “She is really one of the most resilient characters I [believe] I’ve ever played.”

Want to read more? Catch the rest of Ebony’s exclusive interview in its newest issue, which will be on newsstands this month.

What do you think about the second season of “Queen Sugar” so far? Are you excited to see the Bordelon trio on the cover of the next issue of Ebony?

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Sharee Silerio is a St. Louis-based freelance writer, Film and TV writer-producer, and blogger. When she isn’t creating content for The Root or The St. Louis American, she enjoys watching drama/sci-fi/comedy movies and TV shows, writing faith and self-love posts for SincerelySharee.com, relaxing with a cup of chai tea, crafting chic DIY event décor, and traveling. Review her freelance portfolio at ShareeSilerio.com then connect with her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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What The Black Community Should Take Away from Maia Campbell's Struggle with Mental Health

July 14, 2017, 9:06 am

≫ Next: Dr. Dre Donates $10 Million To Compton High School Performing Arts Center

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Earlier this week, rapper, T-Hood, posted a video of actress, Maia Campbell, pumping his gas and saying she wanted some crack. In the video, Campbell is clearly missing a tooth and is barely dressed in a bra and spandex shorts.

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It wasn't long before the video went viral. Right now, a search of 'Maia Campbell' on YouTube yields more than 800 results for videos posted this week.

If you're not familiar with who Maia Campbell is, she played the role of Nicole on the 90's show, South Central. She also appeared on Iyanla Vanzant's show, Fix My Life back in 2012, detailing her battle with bipolar disorder.

LL Cool J, who was Campbell's co-star on another 90's show, In the House, attempted to get in contact with the actress through Instagram writing, "If anyone has a contact on Maia pls let me know... " In response to the video posted by T-Hood, LL also took to Twitter: “Instead of pulling out your phone and filming someone who’s obviously having trouble. Maybe lend a helping hand? A kind word?”

As Campbell revealed in Fix My Life, she stopped taking her medication for bipolar disorder, which eventually led to her losing custody of her daughter, Elizabeth Elisha Gutierrez. Campbell has been in rehab before for drug addiction, but has relapsed multiple times.

Rapper T-Hood, who also filmed Campbell denying help from LL, has received a mountain of backlash on social media. Many people felt that he was exploiting Campbell's mental illness for views and was wrong to film her in the state that she was in.

T-Hood responded to the criticism in a video stating that he's known Campbell from "the block for years" and that she is not suffering from an illness, but that "... this b***h is just high as f**k". He even went as far to say that if she was white, like "Hilary Duff", and not black, viewers would care less.

Instead of using Campbell's life as a source of entertainment, it should be a call to action in the black community. Not another community issue that gets twisted into a race issue and deflects our focus away from opening our hearts to those who obviously need support. The worst that can happen is someone be considered a "lost cause" because they are struggling to deal with the stress of losing their mother, their daughter, and their career while also battling a mental illness.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, people with bipolar disorder may use drugs to help "control their moods or treat their symptoms". However, this will only make their illness worse, potentially leading to "more frequent relapses", thus creating a cycle of mood swings, drug addiction, rehab, erratic behavior, and relapse.

The constant re-posting of this video sheds light not only on the MIS-education of folks on mental illnesses, but also to the stigma around black mental health and its intersection with drug addiction.

If you don't remember, crack was brought into black and brown communities - after white people fled for the suburbs - and was followed by the mass incarceration of black and brown men and women. The crack epidemic of the 80's and 90's is still haunting us in 2017 and unfortunately, its victims are faced with hurt and criticism when they really just need help.

This is an inter-generational issue and like so many other problems that plague the black community, has been normalized and transformed into a topic of comedy, i.e., the term "crackhead" and movies like Friday.

With the normalization and mockery of such issues also comes denial, from both the sufferer and the observer.

T-Hood initially denied that Campbell had a mental illness until social media dragged him after which he had a change of mind, apologized to social media, and offered to take her to rehab if LL Cool J did not reach out to him.

Social media is obviously not the space - nor safe - for individuals with mental illness to seek help. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter, when used outside of private messaging, can put victims of media exploitation, like Campbell, in a vulnerable position, compromising their willingness to seek help or be helped. When a community lacks the knowledge and skills necessary to have a real discourse around mental illnesses, like bipolar disorder, its members perpetuation of stigma associated with mental health.

Campbell's own response to LL Cool J's offer to help can be seen as an extension of stigma around black mental health from being solely external to the individual, to existing within that person. She makes it clear in another video filmed by T-Hood that she does not actually want to connect with LL. Although there is truth in LL's statement that "you can't help someone who doesn't want your help," it does not mean that the community should give up on people like Maia Campbell.

It is unfortunate that there are so many people out there in the world like Campbell who are addicted to drugs or alcohol and have a co-existing mental health condition. To expand your knowledge on mental illness, here are some articles from the National Alliance on Mental Illnesses'website:

Know The Warning Signs

Bipolar Disorder

Schizophrenia

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

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Ariel is a 23-year old SoCal native, working professional, and Alumna of the University of California, Berkeley. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and through her studies, acquired a passion for gaining knowledge that would improve the quality of her life and further allow her to interact with and touch people in a positive way. You can follow her own blog, The Freewoman Diaries, at www.thefreewomandiaries.com

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Dr. Dre Donates $10 Million To Compton High School Performing Arts Center

July 14, 2017, 9:14 am

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Kevin Winter/Getty

By Sharee Silerio

Dr. Dre is giving back to his hometown community by pledging $10 million for a new performing arts center at a high school in Compton.

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“My goal is to provide kids with the kind of tools and learning they deserve,” he told Variety. “The performing arts center will be a place for young people to be creative in a way that will help further their education and positively define their future.”

Could this be a response to the backlash of 2013? Was this $10 million donation a part of his philanthropic plan all along?

We probably won’t know for sure, but we do know that four years ago, he received backlash for pledging $35 million to the University of Southern California to help start a program in his and Jimmy Iovine’s name, instead of promising it to a black school or historically black college.

“I feel like this is the biggest, most exciting and probably the most important thing that I’ve done in my career,” Dr. Dre told the “New York Times” then.

Everyday people wrote opinion pieces on it, university presidents asked the rapper and producer why he didn’t choose to donate to their institution, and some people were just mad to be mad – about how he spent HIS money.

I understand the beauty and righteousness in giving back to your community and offering people who are where you came from opportunities to build their best lives, but at the same time, we don’t know someone’s whole financial or giving plan. I mean, is it really any of our business?

Plus, why wouldn’t you help an organization build an entire academy that honors you, your work and accomplishments? If you want to have a say in how it’s done, then it makes sense for you to invest in it.

Maybe his goal was to donate to a specific education program instead of a school’s general expenses. Or maybe no other school presented an idea that matched what his heart desired to put money on.

Regardless of what we think, the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation exists. And it sounds like a great program, described as:

The undergraduate degree program focuses on nurturing and developing original thought, leading to breakthrough products, systems, technologies and more. Drawing on the talents and experiences of industry leaders from a vast array of fields and driven by passionate, committed faculty, the Academy empowers the next generation of disruptors to change the face of society.

Now back to 2017. This new pledge sounds life-changing, too, like it could open doors of opportunity to the arts and media industries for a great deal of teens. Dr. Dre’s donation to the high school will help fund a 1,200-seat theater and digital media production equipment for the center, which is expected to break ground in 2020.

What do you think about Dr. Dre's contribution?

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7 Sweet Lessons in ‘Queen Sugar’ Season 2, Episode 5

July 14, 2017, 9:36 am

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By Sharee Silerio

In life, we all have moments that we want to wish away. Whether it’s losing a loved one, financial struggles, an illness, a dead end career or strained relationships, everyone is going through or trying to get through something.

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“Queen Sugar” is no different, which is why I love this show so much! It’s so real, and often reminds me of my life at the present time or of what I have experienced. The show’s representation of life, love, hurt, healing and self-discovery is beautiful.

This week’s episode carries a couple of major themes throughout it – control and fear. We fear what we cannot control and we try to control what we fear.

Charley, Micah, Aunt Vi and Darla demonstrate what fear looks like; in their facial expressions, actions, words and being. It’s amazing to witness how they learn that their fears are unfounded or how to push through them anyway.

This episode, titled “Caroling Dusk”, starts with Charley and Micah talking about their therapy session, Nova and Dr. Dubois connecting in love, Charley realizing that her childhood has crept its way into her adulthood, and Darla feeling the impact of her absence in Blue’s life.

Here is my “Reel Noire” recap of last night’s episode, on the sweet lessons that stood out to me:

1. There is nothing wrong with seeking therapy when you need it. Sometimes we need help to unpack the wounds, frustrations and struggles of the past and present in order to move forward in a healthy way.

In the beginning of the episode, Charley is sitting on a couch in an office calling Micah. He is supposed to be there for his first therapy session, but isn’t able to come. The therapist tells Charley that it’s helpful to talk to her client’s parents so she can help them better, but Charley wants to stick to her concerns with Micah. When Charley can’t weasel her way out of the situation, she takes a long, cautious breath.

A little introspection does the body good. #QUEENSUGAR pic.twitter.com/mI3IwNNYj7
— Queen Sugar (@QueenSugarOWN) July 13, 2017

2. Learn to take care of yourself before you let others take care of you. You don’t need anyone to rescue you. Rescue yourself.

Last week, Darla lost her job at the parking garage because she went to the farm to help Ralph Angel instead of completing her shift like her manager told her to. Since then, she’s been looking for a job so she can support herself, and Ralph Angel wants her to move in with him. She stays stands strong and tells him that she needs to be able to stand on her own two feet by herself.

Are Ralph Angel & Darla ready to take the next step? Catch up on last night's episode of #QUEENSUGAR with Watch OWN. https://t.co/2VBXIRB7HR pic.twitter.com/6kGjBxxcAw
— Queen Sugar (@QueenSugarOWN) July 13, 2017

3. Striving for perfection stunts personal growth. Progress is the road to freedom and fulfilling all of your potential. Instead of finding a way around obstacles, discover a way to get through them, and choose to learn something in the process.

During the impromptu therapy session, Charley ends up revealing that she felt like her mother wanted her to be perfect growing up. She calls Nova, who shows up to her house after sensing that she needs some sister time. Nova performs a home cleansing ritual then they talk over dinner. After discussing Micah and their new life in St. Josephine’s, Charley reminisces about how much she practiced playing the piano as a child, including the time she walked out of a recital in the middle of her performance because she couldn’t handle the pressure. She mentions that her mom told her she should find a new hobby and they never talked about it again.

Sisterhood is so powerful. #QUEENSUGAR pic.twitter.com/mqAUw92mjK
— Queen Sugar (@QueenSugarOWN) July 13, 2017

4. Give yourself a fresh start each and every time you need it. Start over whenever, however, wherever and as often as you need to. Sometimes creating something from nothing is the only way to see things clearly.

At the same dinner, Nova tells Charley that her momma made her a control freak, adding that “You have a blank slate, with yourself and with Micah. Color it how you want.” Charley tells Nova, “Well, your slate is blank now, too.”

Sisterhood is so powerful. #QUEENSUGAR pic.twitter.com/mqAUw92mjK
— Queen Sugar (@QueenSugarOWN) July 13, 2017

5. Fear is something we must get through in order to fully live this thing called life. We can’t avoid it. It will always exist in some form. Let fear motivate you to make a difference, to become and accomplish all you can be.

Micah and Davis walk into the gym when Davis says that they’re going to play a special basketball game. When either of them shoots a three-pointer, they get to ask the other a question, no topic off limits. Micah shoots a “3” first, then asks Davis a question. Davis shoots one next then asks Micah if the cops roughed him up. Micah responds then says that he felt out of control and was scared, and it was something he hadn’t experienced before. Davis replies, “Fear is a rite of passage for us. The question is, how do you use it to make yourself smarter and better.”

6. Building your dream from the ground up is tough. Resistance doesn’t mean that it’s time for you to give up. Nothing worthwhile comes easy. You have to keep on when things get difficult, when people tell you no, and especially when you don’t feel like it. You must believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who believe in you, even when you don't believe in yourself.

After Hollywood taste-tests Aunt Vi’s pies, she takes them to local restaurants in the neighborhood to see if they’d like to sell them to their customers. The next day, she’s in the bed when Hollywood walks in the door. He asks her if she’s going to get out of the bed and she tells him that she doesn’t feel like dealing with people. She tears up while telling him that every place she went to said no. He asks her if she’s going to listen to sad songs all day, then says, “That ain’t the Vi I know...it was one day. One very hard, bad day. But you ain’t got to let it turn into two.”

We can all learn something from Hollywood and Aunt Vi’s relationship. #QUEENSUGAR pic.twitter.com/pOFeANU8p9
— Queen Sugar (@QueenSugarOWN) July 13, 2017

7. The way you treat other people comes back to you, whether it’s good or bad. We’ve heard this many times before, but treat others the way you want to be treated. Reaping and sowing, also known as karma, is real.

Ralph Angel is in an alley, digging in a dumpster when two cops pull up on him (if you watched, then you know why he’s doing this, lol). As he shows his face to them, one of the cops recognizes him, and saves his behind. Toine, the cop who saves him, is a transgender man that Ralph Angel has been friends with for years. During their conversation about Darla and Ralph Angel’s protectiveness of Blue, Toine thanks Ralph Angel for supporting and looking out for him in high school and later in life.

Did you watch the fifth episode of “Queen Sugar”? What are some of your favorite moments?

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Mom Vlogger Defends Breastfeeding During Sex

July 15, 2017, 10:01 am

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Written by Tonja Renée Stidhum

The topic of breastfeeding is certainly a hot one as of late as has sparked huge debates with passionate views from either side of the table. Whether it’s fight for or against public breastfeeding or the age of the breastfed child, the debates can often get very heated. Well, one mom has upped the ante by adding an unconventional component: breastfeeding during sex.

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Meet Tasha Maile, a vlogger who recently took to YouTube with her baby latched onto her nipple to explain why she believes it’s “ok” to breastfeed her child while she’s engaging in intercourse. Vlogging under the name “Spiritual Tasha Mama” and serving as a helpful resource for women looking to learn about breastfeeding, Maile often includes her baby feeding from her breast in her videos, which has become somewhat of her brand.

She posted the video with the caption, “Sex is beautiful, thanks to sex we are here, experiencing life. Are you thinking for yourself? or has someone else told you what to think/believe?” and firmly proposed the positive effects of sexual energy. With over 4 million views, Maile’s original video has gotten people buzzing with many viewers outraged at her controversial choice.

Maile recently appeared on This Morning with Phillip & Holly for an interview in response to the backlash, in which she defended her choice as a mother who has to multitask.

“If the baby is OK, the baby’s OK,” said Maile, who also conducted the interview -- true to form -- with her baby latched onto her nipple, feeding. They’re not sitting there judging you and thinking ‘my mom and dad are having sex.’ It’s a 2- or 3-month-old baby. They’re so innocent." The hosts challenged her, asking her whether being present during the sex act could be damaging to the baby or child depending on their age. Maile countered that the baby was sleeping while breastfeeding, but also noted that it’s not uncommon for children to walk into the room while their parents are having sex, which she believes to be harmless. In addition to her 2-month old baby, Maile has a 5 year old child (who the hosts pointed out also still gets breastfed by Maile), to which she pointed that she did not have sex in front of her eldest child.

In terms of her growing popularity, the hosts asked whether she was ever concerned about the contrast between people who watch her videos purely for education versus for more implied “impure” reasons. Maile simply noted that she initially created the channel for her and was happy to share with others, but the reasons behind viewers’ choices to watch is “none of [her] business.”

Further, the hosts asked if there was ever a time where she felt it was ever inappropriate to breastfeed the child, as Maile added that she has showered while feeding her baby before. Overall, Maile believes there is no “right or wrong” in regards to her choice to breastfeed during sex.

This is certainly a hot topic! So, let’s talk about it in the comments!

What are your thoughts on Tasha Maile’s choice to breastfeed while having sex? Is there line in regards to age when breastfeeding your children? What do you all think about public breastfeeding, in general?

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Tonja Renée Stidhum is a writer/director living in Los Angeles by way of Chicago. She is the co-host of the movie review podcast, Cinema Bun Podcast. She is made of sugar and spice and everything rice... with the uncanny ability to make a Disney/Pixar reference in the same sentence as a double entendre. You can follow her on Twitter @EmbraceTheJ, on Facebook FB.com/tstidhum, and Instagram @embracethej. You can find more of her work on her About Me page, https://about.me/tonjareneestidhum.

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Watch the New Trailer for The Incredible Jessica Jones

July 17, 2017, 7:23 am

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Everybody loves Jessica Williams.

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She a comedian. She’s one-half of the dynamic duo heading the 2Dope Queens Podcast (which we talked about in a previous post). Then, to ice her coolest person ever cake, she made us all fall in love with her on an intellectual (and a physical level) in her breakout role on screen as everyone’s favorite bullsh*t-caller-outer during her brief stint as a senior correspondent on The Daily Show.

She’s witty. She’s funny. She’s gorgeous. She has hair that pleases the natural hair gods. And now, she’s continuing in the pursuit of living her best life with a film debut on Netflix, after receiving rave reviews at several independent film festivals, including Sundance.

Yesterday, the trailer for this Williams’ film, the Incredible Jessica Jones was released. The film stars Williams as Jessica Jones. She’s in good company as far as casting. Her costar, who is heavily featured in the trailer, is Irish comedic actor famous Chris O’Dowd who is famous for his work in British television. Being familiar with both of their work, this combination is as promising as it is unexpected.

The film itself has been shrouded in a sense of vagueness, but the trailer gives us a little more information and a lot to look forward to. Jessica is a 25-year-old woman living in New York as she navigates a very millennial quarter life crises. She meets O’Dowd, in an attempt to get over an ex, and wastes no time in… well wasting his time. She’s confused and confident, and a little awkward, and this refreshing coming-of-age story tugs at the heartstrings of my generation’s psyche.

It’s a little bit of comedy, a little bit of indie, and a lot of shenanigans. We’re excited for the Netflix release of this film on July 28th.

Watch the trailer, and tell us your thoughts in the comments!

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Alma Hill is a freelance journalist, actress, and mother living in Orlando, FL. A frequent contributor to online and print media publications, she believes that the words from our mouths will change the world. Born in Charlotte, NC, she's a millennial with an old soul who appreciates a good meme as much as a Miles Davis album. Brave souls can follow her on Twitter @_mynameissoul,but you have been warned.

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Tamron Hall Returns to Daytime TV With Her Own Show

July 17, 2017, 9:06 am

≫ Next: R. Kelly Is Reportedly Running An Abusive Cult For Teens According To Their Parents

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Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Tamron Hall is returning to daytime TV.

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Last February, just a few minutes before going on air at MSNBC, Hall learned that she and Al Roker would be replaced by anchor Megyn Kelly in the 9am time slot. Always professional, she continued the show that morning, but left the network. Hall, the first black woman anchor in the show’s history, reportedly turned down a significant offer to stay with NBC. “She was offered a lot of money to stay … and she turned it down,” a source told PEOPLE. She had been with MSNBC and NBC since 2007, joining the “Today” cast in 2014.

After leaving, friends knew she wouldn't be content to sit on the sidelines. “Tamron’s a woman of integrity,” said TV writer-producer Mara Brock Akil, who used Hall as the inspiration for Gabrielle Union’s character on the hit BET show Being Mary Jane. “And she’s writing her own story.”

Now, the talented host is returning to broadcast television with a show of her own, in association with Weinstein Television. The currently untitled daytime show will feature Hall as host and executive producer and focus on current events, human-interest stories and celebrity interviews. Taped in front of a live studio audience, Harvey Weinstein, co-chairman of The Weinstein Company, said the new show “will fill the current void in daytime for viewers looking for a blend of heart, humor and information.”

When the right call comes #grateful
A post shared by Tamron Hall (@tamronhall) on Jul 12, 2017 at 10:37am PDT

Hall's upcoming project is Weinstein Television's first attempt at daytime television. The company is known for its work on the Project Runway series, as well as the recent documentary Time: The Kalief Browder Story, executive produced by Jay Z. Hall is also in talks with Weinstein Television to develop a other non-scripted programs that will showcase her journalism skills, says The Hollywood Reporter.

“I’ve been working towards developing a talk show for a long time, but needed to make sure I did it the right way and with the right person to take the lead,” Weinstein said in a statement. “Tamron is far and away that person. She’s an exceptionally talented journalist whose interviews masterfully walk the line between entertainment and hard hitting. We couldn’t be more thrilled to begin this new venture with her.”

What are your thoughts on Tamron Hall returning to daytime television?

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R. Kelly Is Reportedly Running An Abusive Cult For Teens According To Their Parents

July 17, 2017, 10:03 am

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Photo Source: Vulture

R. Kelly is certainly a divisive person when it comes to his connection with ephebophilia. There are usually two camps: those that defend him as fans of his music and those that have no tolerance for his behavior with minors. Ever since his 2008 trial on child pornography, that debate has heightened and still remains a hot point today. He has since been acquitted of such charges, but the effect of that infamous sex tape has not faded away in the public eye.

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Cut to now, where the stakes have gotten much higher. According to several parents’ reports to police, the R&B self-proclaimed “Pied Piper” is being accused of running a “cult” for teens and subjecting them to emotional and sexual abuse. Additionally, Cheryl Mack, Kitti Jones and Asante McGee have provided more details from their perspective as former members of Kelly’s inner circle.

“R. Kelly is the sweetest person you will ever want to meet,” said McGee. “But Robert is the devil.”

Per the three former inner circle members, Kelly oversees the “cult” full of teens that he dubs his “babies” which reportedly includes acts of sexual training of the teens by a “den mother,” videotaping sexual acts to be later shown to Kelly’s friends, and controlling rules such as having to notify Kelly when they want to leave the studio or their assigned rooms. Any deviation from the “house rules” are allegedly means to punishment.

Mack shut down any perspective groupie fantasies about R. Kelly who hope to live a “lavish” lifestyle once they become connected with the singer. “No. You have to ask for food. You have to ask to go use the bathroom. … [Kelly] is a master at mind control. ... He is a puppet master,” Mack said.

In one instance, a couple parents noted their daughter -- an aspiring singer -- once lied to them about a weekend trip to visit a college, but was in fact planning to visit Kelly in a trip arranged by Mack. There were even phone recordings obtained between the daughter and Kelly in which Kelly said things like, ““I want you to get in the habit of telling me what color panties you got on every day.” He also noted, I’m more interested in developing you. Songs are not an issue. We can always do a hit song.”

This is just one of the many similar stories about young girls led astray toward a man who is reportedly a master at mind controlling vulnerable teens. As someone who is roughly 50 years old at this point and a superstar, there is a significant power dynamic in play in Kelly’s favor.

Contrastly, Kelly has maintained his innocence ever since the infamous trial for which has acquitted. “We can only wonder why folks would persist in defaming a great artist who loves his fans, works 24/7, and takes care of all of the people in his life,” wrote R. Kelly’s attorney Linda Mensch, in a statement to Buzzfeed News. “He works hard to become the best person and artist he can be. It is interesting that stories and tales debunked many years ago turn up when his goal is to stop the violence; put down the guns; and embrace peace and love. I suppose that is the price of fame. Like all of us, Mr. Kelly deserves a personal life. Please respect that.”

Source: Buzzfeed News

What do you think about these new allegations? Let’s discuss in the comments!

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4 Makeup Tips For Busy Moms

July 18, 2017, 9:13 am

≫ Next: Kappa Remakes Video for Guy’s 90s R&B Hit ‘Let’s Chill’ to Propose to Girlfriend

≪ Previous: R. Kelly Is Reportedly Running An Abusive Cult For Teens According To Their Parents

Photo Source

Mornings can be a struggle for anyone. Getting out the door on time is a cause for celebration. On top of getting yourself prepared for the day, imagine what it's like adding children to the mix. If you are a working mom, then you know the struggle is real. Who has time for full makeup applications when you must take care of the children and get ready for work at the same time. If you need a little help, here are a few tips that will save you a time with your makeup routine.

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1. Skip the Foundation
Here's a big time saver, either skip the foundation completely or opt for a tinted moisturizer. This 2-in-1 combo will provide coverage and keep you skin hydrated all day long. Adding a primer underneath will boost hydration levels and help make your moisturizer last. Try using e.l.f. Tinted Moisturizer, which contains SPF 20. You can purchase at Walmart for approximately $4.00.

2. Use Concealer if Needed
Concealer is great if you have tired eyes with dark circles. You can use it with or without the tinted moisturizer. My suggestion is to try Black Opal True Color Flawless Perfecting Concealer. It’s lightweight and creamy and all you need is a quick swipe to hide imperfections. It can also be purchased at your local drug store, retailing for approximately $6.00.

3. Make Your Eyes Pop
Everyone looks good in black mascara. It provides a dramatic frame for the eyes. You can quickly use a coat or two of to make your eyes look fresh and more awake. Try Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara for $5.99 at Walgreens. If you don’t wear mascara, eyeliner can boost the appearance of your eyes as well.

4. Add Lip Color
The last step in your quick makeup routine is to add a splash of color to pump up your lips. Here a quick tip: Instead of putting the gloss on like lipstick, apply gloss to the middle of your bottom lip only and rub lip together or use a lip brush for a smoother application. If you want a bit more of color, add your gloss over a neutral lipstick. For brown skin tones try: brown based shades or rose, mauve and berry. For darker skinned tones, deep plums, chocolates and reds look great. NYX offers different shades of matte, oil, cream and lip tints for approximately $7.00.

There you have it! It is possible to have a quick morning makeup routine. If you need a shorter version, simply moisture your skin, add a little face powder, lip balm and go!

What’s your morning routine? What products do you like to use?

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Monica is a Milwaukee native, wife, mother of two, step mother of one and working professional. In her spare time she enjoys reading, shopping and following the current trends of natural hair, beauty and health, all while pursuing her Bachelors Degree in Business Management and Leadership. You can follow her on Instagram@allbeautyandhair and Twitter @allbeautynhair.

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Kappa Remakes Video for Guy’s 90s R&B Hit ‘Let’s Chill’ to Propose to Girlfriend

July 18, 2017, 9:20 am

≫ Next: Tracee Ellis Ross Grants Black Twitter's Wish For Her To Play Ms. Frizzle

≪ Previous: 4 Makeup Tips For Busy Moms

By Sharee Silerio

What things can turn a bad day around for you? For me, it’s 90s R&B and true love, especially black love!

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Lately, my timelines have been full of sweet, unique and touching proposal videos. The viral “Will you marry me?” moments are beautiful to see, and Trevon Davis’ proposal was no different.

Davis, with help from his Kappa Alpha Psi line brothers Montra Scott, Rayvon Washington and Tolan Jackson, remade the video for Guy’s 1990 R&B hit “Let’s Chill”.

Shot by Nightfall Motion Pictures, the 8-minute video perfectly tells the story of how Davis met Franchelle Hill, his bride-to-be, while showing the growth of their relationship.

It’s an amazing homage to throwback 90s music and heartwarming depiction of what it looks like to be black and in love.

“I grew up listening to old school music and I knew that let’s chill by guy symbolized somebody ready to settle down and spend the rest of their life with someone!” Trevon told Watch The Yard. “It took about one month to shoot the video. I had to make it perfect for her. Every detail counted. I would imagine her reaction to something and that would encourage me to give more thought to this project!”

Trevon’s surprise had Franchelle smiling from ear to ear.

“My initial reaction was just absolute shock and humor because I honestly could not believe that it was done, but once the day was over and I got to re-watch the video, I was overcome with emotions.” Franchelle said. He really put a lot of time and energy to make this project and just validated how lucky of a woman I am to have a man that loves and cares so much about little details.”

Take a look at the viral video below, including the original video from Guy.

What do you think about the proposal video? What does your dream marriage proposal look like?

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Tracee Ellis Ross Grants Black Twitter's Wish For Her To Play Ms. Frizzle

July 18, 2017, 9:33 am

≫ Next: Michael Vick Says That The NFL Is Put Off By Colin Kaepernick's Hair

≪ Previous: Kappa Remakes Video for Guy’s 90s R&B Hit ‘Let’s Chill’ to Propose to Girlfriend

By Sharee Silerio

Remember that time Twitter inspired the upcoming Rihanna and Lupita Nyong’o film with Ava DuVernay as the director and Issa Rae as its writer?

Well, the internet is at it again, hoping to cast “Black-ish” star Tracee Ellis-Ross in a live-action adaptation of the 90s kid favorite, “The Magic School Bus”.

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Netflix is already working on an animated revival of the beloved show, which also includes a book series.

Fans are pushing for Ross to play the interesting, fun, lively Ms. Frizzle, who drives the school bus from reality to science dreamland.

On Twitter, Josh Gwynn suggested the idea, and several users retweeted it in support. Fans responded with fan art, reactions and their preference for Duvernay and Rae’s involvement.

You can't tell me Tracee Ellis Ross wouldn't be the best live action Mrs. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus. pic.twitter.com/qrA1u8Ejhr
— Josh Gwynn (@RegardingJosh) May 18, 2017

✨🚌 ✨ we gotta make this happen! pic.twitter.com/QOYpH5ao8k
— Killing me smalls® (@TheFrooster) May 19, 2017

Look, @TraceeEllisRoss is the Ms. Frizzle we deserve. 🚀✨🚀 pic.twitter.com/4WdKDT5nJY
— /rā•vē•rā/ (@raveyrai) July 6, 2017

Ross noticed the hype and responded to the proposal with curiosity.

...now what's this I hear about some of you wanting me to play Ms. Frizzle on The Magic School Bus? Tell me more...
— Tracee Ellis Ross (@TraceeEllisRoss) July 14, 2017

Users became more excited as her tweet collected over 22,000 retweets and almost 70,000 likes, with over 800 replies.

HOLD THE HELL UP! IF THIS HAPPENS I WILL COLLAPSE! pic.twitter.com/3l0ffnTbss
— Zé 🐘 (@FATHERBONNET) July 15, 2017

You'd be perfect! Especially after "Hidden Figures" BLACK women scientists are poppin! pic.twitter.com/MHoEhfi7Ed
— Fine-N-Frugal (@TraceeDash) July 14, 2017

The internet: "You should play Ms. Frizzle."
Tracee: pic.twitter.com/raNwJsv24q
— Professor Finesser (@KingDextina) July 14, 2017

Ross even called herself Ms. Frizzle, signaling that she’s on board with the project!

Well it looks like Twitter has spoken! So tell me guys: who should write? Who should direct? Ms. Frizzle is all earshttps://t.co/uDI80QP1IG
— Tracee Ellis Ross (@TraceeEllisRoss) July 16, 2017

It looks like social media might be cooking up another great project starring one of our favs!

Did you watch “The Magic School Bus” growing up? What do you think about Tracee playing Ms. Frizzle?

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Michael Vick Says That The NFL Is Put Off By Colin Kaepernick's Hair

July 18, 2017, 10:21 am

≫ Next: He Really Is "Dr. Umar Johnson"

≪ Previous: Tracee Ellis Ross Grants Black Twitter's Wish For Her To Play Ms. Frizzle

It's no secret that Colin Kaepernick still doesn't have a job in the NFL. Some would say that it has a lot to do with his protests during the National Anthem, while others would suggest it has to do with his inconsistent playing on the field. But if you ask Michael Vick, he'd suggest that it has to do with Colin Kaepernick's hair and image.

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Vick shared his thoughts on what it would take to get Kaepernick back in the NFL in an interview with Speak For Yourself.

"First thing we’ve got to get Colin to do is cut his hair. Listen, I’m not up here to try to be politically correct, but even if he puts cornrows in there, I don’t think he should represent himself in that way in terms of—just the hairstyle. Just go clean-cut. You know, why not? You’re already dealing with a lot of controversy surrounding this issue. The most important thing that he needs to do is just try to be presentable. All the social media stuff he’s doing—we get it, we understand it. It’s time for Colin to step up in a different way."

Vick adds,"It's time for Kaepernick to step up in a different way."

"First thing we got to get Colin to do is cut his hair."— @MikeVick advises Kaepernick on rebuilding his image pic.twitter.com/YENvUPOIgP
— Speak For Yourself (@SFY) July 17, 2017

What do you think about Michael Vick's comments on Kaepernick's hair? What is he really trying to say?

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Mike "Orie" Mosley is the managing editor for CurlyNikki.com and a cultural advocate from St. Louis. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Arts, Entertainment & Media Management from Columbia College Chicago and a Masters in Higher Education Administration from LSU. He is also the founder of www.afrotrak.com. In his spare time, he's probably listening to hip hop & neo soul music, hitting up brunch or caught up in deep conversations about Black music. You can follow him on Twitter @mike_orie or on Instagram @mikeorie

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He Really Is "Dr. Umar Johnson"

July 19, 2017, 7:32 am

≫ Next: Here's The Problem With Michael Vick Telling Colin Kaepernick to "Cut His Hair"

≪ Previous: Michael Vick Says That The NFL Is Put Off By Colin Kaepernick's Hair

If you’ve got an ear to the Black stratosphere of social media, you’ve certainly heard of Dr. Umar Johnson. Chances are you’ve seen him and his rhetoric splattered across your social media friend or you’re an avid follower of his words. Maybe you’re of the camp that believes “he sometimes makes a point,” despite being aware of how problematic he could sometimes be when delivering his message.

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Either way, he’s certainly taken center stage in many discussions around race and he is one of the most divisive figures I’ve encountered online in a while. Personal opinions of him notwithstanding, he’s mastered the art of stealing everyone’s attention. As someone who holds a firm and commanding presence in his controversial beliefs, Johnson has been the subject of scrutiny in regards to his credentials’ validity; namely, his doctorate.

As someone whose unyielding claims have been debunked by fact-checkers, one particular thing has remained a bit of a mystery. Where is his alleged doctorate in psychology? Does it even exist? Many skeptics believed that Johnson -- like other things -- was lying about this, too. One man, Michael Harriot from The Root, decided to get to the bottom of it all. Harriot, a skeptic in his own right didn’t believe his doctor title was legit, either.

After rigorous searching that included a paid degree verification from National Student Clearinghouse, he found that his beliefs were wrong. The degree exists.

In a move that you most likely would never witness from Johnson, Harriot admitted his wrong on a public platform.

“I have always said privately and publicly that I agree with a lot of what Johnson says. Part of my problem with him (aside from our disagreement about homosexuality ruining the black race and some of his more misogynistic rhetoric) was that many people listened to him because he said he was a doctor of psychology. Some people gave him the benefit of the doubt simply because of his credentials,” said Harriot.

While the degree may be legit, Harriot points out that it doesn’t wipe away the things that still appear to be sketchy. Allowing for nuance, Harriot concludes with, “I believe it is possible to be a scholar and a charlatan. I would still like to know what happened to those people’s money. I actually hope that he builds a school for black boys. But there is one thing I must be clear about:

His name is Doctor Umar Johnson.”

Source:The Root

Does this newfound information change your beliefs about Dr. Umar Johnson at all? What do you think about him, in general? Sound off in the comments!

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Here's The Problem With Michael Vick Telling Colin Kaepernick to "Cut His Hair"

July 19, 2017, 9:09 am

≫ Next: How Hair Changes During Pregnancy

≪ Previous: He Really Is "Dr. Umar Johnson"

Photo: Getty Images

Following Michael Vick's illuminating advice on FS1's "Speak for Yourself" informing Colin Kapaernick to "cut his hair" and "just try to look presentable," Colin Kaepernick seemed to respond via Twitter with the definition of Stockholm Syndrome. Stockholm Syndrome is the psychological condition in which a hostage develops sympathy for and an alliance with his/her captors as a means of survival during captivity. If Kaepernick was indeed talking about Michael Vick then I couldn't agree more.

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We all remember how America reeled in horror at the cornrowed Vick having abused all of those poor, defenseless puppies. The dogfighting “thug” had to pay for his inexcusable crimes and he did so with a nearly two-year stint in prison. Upon his release, however, he shaved the braids, rebranded himself as an advocate for animal rights and re established himself as an upstanding citizen worthy of the NFL’s forgiveness.

It was as if Vick had spent his entire time in prison studying the philosophies of Booker T. Washington. And it kind of makes sense that he would. Washington had been born a slave and knew very well the horrors of the institution. An imprisoned Vick, especially after having lived as a wealthy and revered athletic hero, must have shared the same feelings as Washington. That feeling of “never again” and “I’ll do whatever it takes to be free” and “I know what these White folks are capable of so I’ll play by their rules and try to get ahead that way.”

Washington, who introduced and preached the idea of respectability politics, once wrote, "Labor to make yourself as indispensable as possible in all your relations with the dominant race and color will cut less figure in your upward grade." In an 1895 speech, Washington also made the claim, "The wisest among my race understand that the agitation of questions of social equality is the extremist folly, and that progress in the enjoyment of all the privileges that will come to us must be the result of severe and constant struggle rather than of artificial forcing." In response to Washington's ideas, American Whites offered great praise to the man and regarded him as a trustworthy leader, and perhaps savior, of his race. He was a "safe negro."

Yeah, that whole thing is Stockholm Syndrome alright.

I tend to have more sympathy for Washington than Vick though. Did Washington really have a choice during the era in which he lived? Nope, not at all. But Vick is a different story. He really didn’t have to fight those dogs in the first place. Plus he knows
good and damn well that respectability politics
doesn’t do anything for anyone who has been determined to be a threat to the American status quo.

Did Dr. King’s pristine suits or his beautifully orated talks of equality and non-violence keep him from getting shot down at the Lorraine Motel? Maybe King's Infidelity disqualified him from being truly respectable so let me do Vick one better. How about Barack Obama?

Obama, a Harvard alumni and the first Black president of the Harvard Law Review, an accomplished author, the fifth Black person to serve as a U.S. Senator and the first Black U.S. president was never caught up in any scandal of any kind, political, personal or otherwise. Loved, revered and respected the world over, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, Obama always remained well-spoken, poised and prepared. The only time he rocked an Afro was during the 70s. Yet for all his many accomplishments, his commitment to his wife, his adoration of his children, and his occasional wearing of mom jeans, none of that stopped him from being called a nigger, terrorist, liar (during a State of the Union address) or an outright traitor to the country.

I do believe Vick meant well when trying to offer advice to Kaepernick but I find it laughable that Vick has somehow determined that Kaepernick has image issues. Kaepernick has committed no crime, has not been to prison and was otherwise exercising his first amendment right as an American to practice freedom of speech. To suggest that Kaepernick’s hair (or overall supposed appearance as a revolutionary) is somehow responsible for his unpopularity with football fans who feel that his peaceful protest was an affront to patriotism is equally ridiculous. Perhaps if Kaepernick takes up dog fighting, he should give Vick a call. Otherwise, Vick should take several seats and keep his PR advice to himself.

What do you think about Vick's comments?

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Nikki Igbo is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and political junkie. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Political Science from California State University at Fullerton and a Masters in Fine Arts of Writing at Savannah College of Art and Design. When not staring in disbelief at the antics unfolding on CSPAN, she enjoys philosophical arguments with her husband, 70's era music and any excuse to craft with glitter. Feel free to check out her freelance services at nikigbo.com and stalk her on twitter @nikigbo or Instagram at @nikigbo.

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How Hair Changes During Pregnancy

July 19, 2017, 9:47 am

≫ Next: We wanted to be adults so bad. Now look at us.

≪ Previous: Here's The Problem With Michael Vick Telling Colin Kaepernick to "Cut His Hair"

Photo: Getty Images

by Mary Wolff

Throughout life, your hair will undergo changes. From aging to menopause, the body will undergo changes that change your hair over time. One of the biggest disrupters for your hair is pregnancy. If you have ever wondered how hair changes during pregnancy, we have the answers!

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The first thing a lot of naturalistas wonder is how much hair loss will occur during pregnancy. It is a common misconception that pregnancy will cause hair loss. Some women think this is because of the way the hormones in the body react to being pregnant. For example, when you are pregnant, your body naturally produces higher levels of a hormones called progesterone. This hormone is released in abundance by the ovaries as a means of supporting the pregnancy to term. But it actually has some great benefits for your hair!

Hair grows in natural phases with a growth cycle called the anagen phase, a catagen phase, and a shedding cycle called the telogen phase. The anagen phase is when hair is in a growing state and new growth is seen at the follicle level. The catagen state is when the hair isn’t growing or shedding.

Finally, the telogen phase is when hair is released and subsequently falls out. The reason some people associate pregnancy with hair loss is because while you’re pregnant, the progesterone keeps hair in an anagen phase. When the baby is born and the levels fall again, the hair typically enters the telogen phase. This is a result of not having the excess of progesterone hormones and your body shifts the needs to other areas more important than your hair. Basically, the body has the main job of keeping you healthy and your hormones well-regulated for health reasons first. Anything left over after major needs are met will be transferred to your strands.

The good news is most women report healthy, thick hair that keeps growing while they are pregnant, so for nine months, you may end up having the most beautiful curls of your life. However, expect the downfall when the baby comes. The important thing to remember about hair during pregnancy is that you have little to no control over it. Your hair is just doing what your body tells it to do, and this isn’t a bad thing at all. Best of all, this phase of your hair life will not last forever! Many experts report that shedding is common within the first 2-3 months after delivering, and then things will start to even out again 5-6 months from when it started.

Sources: Essence and Phillip Kingsley

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We wanted to be adults so bad. Now look at us.

July 19, 2017, 7:43 pm

≫ Next: Producers Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil Will Develop Drama for OWN

≪ Previous: How Hair Changes During Pregnancy

I met Yasmira the first day of first grade and we've been rockin' ever since-- conquering high school together (and beyond) and now we're successfully adulting. Appropriately, we had our babies Edesiri and Max within a month of each other and hopefully they'll grow up together too, albeit 800 miles apart. Cheers to us, darling.

Continue!>>>

Later Gators,
Nik

p.s. despite the 100 degree temps and disrespectful humidity, my hair is still pic worthy!

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Producers Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil Will Develop Drama for OWN

July 20, 2017, 7:16 am

≫ Next: Here's The Beginner's Guide To Investing In Black Art

≪ Previous: We wanted to be adults so bad. Now look at us.

By Sharee Silerio

In the early and mid-2000s, The CW was home to two of our favorite television shows – “Girlfriends” and “The Game”.

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It’s when we first fell in love with Tracee Ellis Ross, and where our friendship with Tia Mowry was rekindled.

The producers behind these two relatable, funny and interesting series, including “Being Mary Jane”, are Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil.

After leaving BET to collaborate with Warner Brothers a couple of years ago, we have been eager to see what’s next for the couple. And now we have our answer.

According to a press release, the husband-and-wife team are joining forces with Oprah Winfrey to develop a new relationship drama for the Oprah Winfrey Network.

Titled “Love Is ___”, the original hour-long show, which will debut in 2018, tells the love story of a modern-day power couple, drawing inspiration from the couple’s real-life relationship.

Married since 1999, the couple often hears that they exemplify black love, so the series will explore their successful careers, family life, and the world of Black Hollywood, from the good and the bad.

“I've dreamed of working with the Akils,” Oprah Winfrey said. “I've been a huge fan of their work since first viewing ‘Girlfriends.’ They know just how to hit the cultural nerve to make you think and laugh at the same time.”

The Akils will create and executive produce the self-proclaimed “humorous” show through their company Akil Productions, in association with Warner Horizon Scripted Television. Mara will serve as the showrunner. Between them, the Akils have written, produced and/or directed more than 350 episodes of primetime television series.

“To have a partner that brings the attention to detail and sheer excellence that Oprah has built an empire on is an absolute dream come true for Salim and me,” said Mara Brock Akil. “That, and it’s Oprah! ‘Love Is ___’ is not only a passion project, but is a personal one for us as well. We’re grateful to have her wholehearted support and magic touch behind this story.”

It looks like OWN is revamping its slate of content in an effort to transform audience perception of the network and reestablish its brand as a television powerhouse.

What do you think about Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil making the move to OWN?

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Here's The Beginner's Guide To Investing In Black Art

July 20, 2017, 7:30 am

≫ Next: 7 Sweet Lessons in ‘Queen Sugar’ Season 2, Episode 6

≪ Previous: Producers Mara Brock Akil and Salim Akil Will Develop Drama for OWN

Pictured: Legendary artist, Jean Michel Basquiat

Whether an art lover or not, you'd be hard-pressed to have missed reading about the recent record-breaking sale of Jean Michel Basquiat’s “Untitled” painting for 110.5 million. Or maybe you've heard about Chicago artist Kerry James Marshall who is selling in the millions and boasting lines around the corner for his museum exhibits, and let's not forget late abstract expressionist, and Harlemite, Norman Lewis, whose work was largely undervalued when he was alive, but recently sold at auction for close to one million.

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Some credit our former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle with the global interest in African American art. After all, it was Mrs O. who adorned the walls of the White House with African American artwork alongside the “classics.” Others point to the recognition of black artists as being in line with the social justice movement taking place in America right now.

And we can't overlook the influence of hip hop's biggest art head, Jay-Z, who references art in his recordings every chance he gets. Just listen to his recent 4:44 album where he talks about art as a way to build generational wealth. Whatever the case, galleries, auction houses, museums and collectors are clamoring to buy black art, so the question we should be asking ourselves is, how can we be down?

Financial adviser, Ian Fuller, partner at a boutique money management firm West Fuller Advisors in New York, and grandson of the aforementioned artist Norman Lewis, is just the person to advise us. As a kid growing up in art culture, Ian watched his mom and grandmother advocating on behalf of his grandfather and other black artists, making sure they hold their rightful place in American history. So whether looking to invest a little or a lot, Ian has a few basic tips to get us started on the right track!

Financial advisor, Ian Fuller of West Fuller Advisors

Visit Galleries and Museums
One of the greatest ways to familiarize yourself with art and begin to cultivate one’s eye is by visiting some of the more prominent galleries and museums in New York City. Michael Rosenfield, Jack Shainman gallery, and Hauser & Wirth specialize in showing a large portfolio of African American artists from Masters of the 20th Century down to some of the breakout, visionary black American artists currently working today. Museums like The Studio Museum Of Harlem, The Brooklyn Museum, and The MOMA are also great places to start. For those outside of New York, visit galleries and museums in your area with a commitment to black arts.

Art Purchasing 101
When it comes to art, as with any asset purchase, you want to consider the investment value. Investigate where the artist went to school and who his contemporaries are? What’s the work’s provenance? However, the clear distinction with art is that it should also be a passion purchase. Does the work speak to you in a meaningful way? Is it something that will continue resonating even if the value never appreciates?

Auction Houses
Swain Gallery is the most prominent auction house in the country that focuses on mature, more established African American artists. Auctions are a great way to pick up works that are affordable and also to learn. Sometimes the prices climb very rapidly at auctions, but in the past few years it’s been a great place to find a deal if you are smart.

Art Fairs
There are a variety of art fairs that take place throughout the year from the high-end Armory Show in New York City and Art Basel in Miami, to the smaller, more approachable sometimes politically and street art focused fairs like the Affordable Art Fair and Scope Fair. These satellite fairs take place during the same time as the bigger fairs and typically have more affordable original works from $500-$10,000. It’s a great way for newer collectors to cultivate their eye and get a sense of the art community, while finding works that better meet their budgets.

Original Short Run Prints
Leading non-profit art galleries that are community based, partner with outstanding artist who will donate original, short run prints of perhaps 100 or less, for really cheap prices. These prints usually have an original signature and have the potential of becoming very valuable in the future. But obviously, there will be work that you buy of an artist that may never really have that breakout moment, so again, it’s important to love the work first, and think about the investment potential second. Obviously, there are many ways to get started. I also recommend visiting this website Culture Type to stay on top of what's happening in the black arts movement from art creation, to collectors, curators and art houses. Also, support local artists. Good luck!

Have you invested in Black art? Share which artists you've purchased from in the comments!

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Erickka Sy Savané is a wife, mom, and freelance writer based in Jersey, City, NJ. Her work has appeared in Essence.com, Ebony.com, Madamenoire.com and more. When she’s not writing...wait, she’s always writing! Follow her on Twitter and Instagram or ErickkaSySavane.com

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7 Sweet Lessons in ‘Queen Sugar’ Season 2, Episode 6

July 20, 2017, 12:20 pm

≫ Next: After Nine Years In Prison, O.J. Simpson Has Been Released On Parole

≪ Previous: Here's The Beginner's Guide To Investing In Black Art

By Sharee Silerio

Life is full of contrasting moments – sorrow, joy, peace, anxiety, hurt, healing, lack, abundance. I used to think that life could only be in one of these seasons at a time, but now I see that this isn’t true. Many of these periods exist alongside one another, sometimes at the same time. It is the friction and competition between the extremes that makes things difficult.

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This week’s episode of “Queen Sugar” beautifully captures this tension by showing what it looks like to feel one thing but try to portray another, to live with secrets, to bury our deepest motivations in what we think they’re “supposed” to be.

A major theme in last night’s episode was “live your truth”, no matter how ugly, painful, heavy or destructive it is. Living a lie never helps, you or other people.

Everyone is going through it – Nova, Ralph Angel, Darla, Aunt Vi and Charley – from striving for perfection to dealing with guilt, the past meeting the present and redemption – the Bordelons are experiencing everything it means to be human.

Titled “Line of Our Elders”, this episode starts with Ralph Angel and Nova looking at their family grave headstone, Charley overseeing the grand opening of the Queen Sugar Mill, Nova discovering an interesting piece of mail, and a journalist interviewing Charley.

Here is my “Reel Noire” recap of yesterday’s episode, on the nuggets of wisdom that stood out:

1. Don’t sugarcoat your story. Be real, raw and authentic. Speak your real truth, not the one that “looks good”. People can tell when you’re hiding something. It’s okay for pain to be a driving force.

After making sure everything is running smoothly with the mill opening, Charley goes back to her office, then a journalist shows up to interview her. He isn’t who she expects, which clearly catches her off guard. The journalist promises that he’s great at his job, which eases her suspicions a bit. Their conversation starts off with a bang, as he asks her why she fled Los Angeles to move to Louisiana. She offers a cookie cutter response, but he isn’t buying it. He senses that something deeper, more emotional, is going on with her.

#ThaBoss #queensugar #gimmesugar pic.twitter.com/brmQtstVUY
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2. Everyone has a break down at some point in life. What’s important is how we put the pieces of our lives back together.

During the grand opening celebration for the Queen Sugar Mill, alarms suddenly sound, and Charley immediately rushes to find out what’s going on. She asks Remy what happened, and he tells her that there’s an issue with the machine so they’ll have to shut things down for a while. She panics and frantically tries to clear the problem up herself. With uncontrollable tears, cries of angst and deep-rooted turmoil, she loses it.

3. Guilt can destroy you. It often holds you hostage to your secrets. Carry them from the darkness into the light. Forgive yourself and move on.

After Charley’s breakdown, Nova helps her to another part of the mill, and they talk about what just happened. She tells her sister that, “Everything was supposed to be perfect, for daddy,” and that the last time she spoke to Ernest he asked her to come help him, but she didn’t. Nova assures her that she made the right choice by dealing with her family troubles amid Davis’ scandal. Charley adds that she was so stuck on his mess that she didn’t get to say goodbye to her dad, and that she thought that she could make it right by putting the mill together. As Nova cleans Charley’s hands with her head wrap, she reveals, “I don’t remember the last time daddy and I spoke. When I got there, he couldn’t talk no more.”

Oh Charley. You DO need theraphy. It has been too much and you wanted to be strong, but you're human. #queensugar #gimmesugar pic.twitter.com/GBHaxEWSYB
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4. Don’t turn a good day bad, ruin a great experience or taint an accomplishment by focusing on the one negative thing that happened. Acknowledge the good in everything.

Later on, Darla and Charley are at Charley’s house, sitting at the dinner table. Darla says, “Today was good,” and Charley replies, “I don’t know, that choke threw me off, and I lost it.” Darla comforts her by saying, “Everyone does sometimes, it’s okay.” Charley tells Darla that she hasn’t met her mother, and Darla tells Charley that she hasn’t met her dad. Charley then switches gears, adding, “Well, we did it.”

5. Celebrate your growth. Celebrate what you have overcome. Celebrate who you are becoming.

Charley gets up and grabs a bottle of wine and glasses for her and Darla to celebrate their great work. She forgets that Darla doesn’t drink alcohol, so she apologizes then offers her iced tea. Darla tells Charley, “I’m coming up on two years, clean and sober. There’s going to be a little ceremony. Ralph Angel’s coming. Would you be able to?” Charley agrees to come, then they toast to new beginnings.

6. Respect your legacy. Embrace your legacy. Live your legacy. If you don’t have a legacy, build one from the ground up. Become your legacy.

Aunt Vi, Micah, Hollywood, Blue, Ralph Angel, Nova, Darla and Charley are at Ernest’s grave, having a blessing ceremony. Nova speaks to her dad, telling him, “We will pour our labor, and love, into the land and keep the farm going. You can rest in peace, because we will live out the legacy you left us.”

" We are all here"#queensugar #gimmesugar pic.twitter.com/77GARw2RtX
— AvaDuVernay Fans (@avaduvernayfans) July 20, 2017

7. Don’t try to cover up or abandon your problems. Instead, do the work you have to do to learn from them, make them right or resolve them.

After the ceremony in the cemetery, everyone returns to Aunt Vi’s house for dinner. Blue is hiding behind a curtain, when Ralph Angel asks him what’s wrong. He tells him that the doll he has isn’t Kenya, because he placed a birth mark on her leg that’s not on the doll he has. Ralph Angel tells him that Kenya was thrown away, so Blue asks if she or he did something wrong. Ralph Angel tells him no, then gives him a hug.

Earlier in the episode, Blue and Ralph Angel shop at a convenience store when the girl he robbed in the very first episode of season one told him that she lost her job because of him. He tries to act like he doesn’t know her, so she calls him a liar. Blue asks him why the lady called him a liar, and Ralph Angel tells him that he’s not going to lie anymore.

At the dinner table, Aunt Vi asks Ralph Angel to bless the food, and he begins praying. As he’s praying, he reminisces on the man his dad was to him, and decides that it is time to speak his truth. He proceeds to tell his sisters about the letter he found.

Things heat up as Nova, Charley and Ralph Angel argue. Nova stands up and walks to the door, when Aunt Vi and Charley follow to stop her. Aunt Vi says, “No, you are not leaving yet.” Nova tells Aunt Vi that she can’t stop her, then Aunt Vi says, “You’re not leaving. Nobody is leaving until we settle this mess!”