Conspiracy Theory: Bin Laden

Sunday May 1st, 2011 marked a day sure to go down in the history books. President Obama announced the death of Osama Bin Laden, the leader of the terrorist group Al-Quaida. And there has been skepticism ever since.

The conspiracy theories that have surrounded Bin Laden's death are mostly due to the nature of his burial, and the refusal by The White House to release photos of his body.

But, before we all shout "Conspiracy!" let us take a deeper look to see if their really is a method to The White House's "madness."

The burial: Bin Laden was buried in the Arabic Sea after his body was taken from his Pakistan compound in respect to his Islamic faith. Many may be outraged by showing any form of respect to a mass murderer but, this is the standard the U.S is trying to set to not be like those that we are fighting against.Which brings me to my next point, the photos. The White house has refused to release photos of Bin Laden's body to avoid them being seen as "trophies" of his killing. And most importantly to insure national security fearing the photos will incite violence; according to theroot.com.

Whether we agree on his killing, burial or the handling, it is safe to say that Osama Bin Laden is dead. So now we can put our skepticism to better use; the aftermath.

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The Perfect Rain Boots

We all know the saying "April showers bring May flowers." Well until those flowers get here, we have to be prepared for the showers. And the best and most fashionable way to be prepared are rain boots! My must have rain boots (which also made Oprah's list),  are from Hunter a brand known for their outstanding quality boots and durability.

These boots come in different styles, and my personal favorites are the Watling Lace Up Full Knee Boot and the Original Gloss Tall Boot; I'm a proud owner of. These boots are not just good for the spring but in the winter for slushy snowy days they will out stand the weather, and your feet will be warm - due to the fleece sock Hunter also sells. They have a lifetime warranty and you"ll be sure to be dry and fashionable on April's rainy days.


Stay True,
Riss

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Black in Latin America

On April 19th, PBS aired a four part documentary series titled Black in Latin America by the theroot.com editor-in-chief, Henry Louis Gates.



Video Link

The series discussed the dynamics of being black in Latin American countries such as Haiti, Dominican Republic, Peru and Mexico. According to theroot.com

"More blacks were transported as slaves to Mexico and Peru than to the United States."

I think that this documentary was very interesting and informative. If you tuned in to Part One, be sure to leave your comments and reviews?

Stay True,
Riss

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Fashion For a Cause

The act of giving is always in season but, if you combine that with fashion then your winning! So, I've found some fun fashion items that are not only cute but are for a cause.

The first fashion for a cause item that I believe is a must have for any conscious fashionista is the Julez for Japan shirt. This simple replica of the Japan flag was made by singer and my personal style icon Solange Knowles 6 year old son Daniel Julez Smith. Not only is this just a great shirt to have but to know that it was made by a 6 year old just makes it that much better. The shirt profits will go to Peace Winds, a non-profit organization that is assisting Japan with the recent devastation.Shirts can be purchased at julezforjapan.bigcartel.com.

Another conscious clothing item that not only makes you look good, but feel good, are the classic shoes from TOMS. TOMS are not only known for their classic canvas style shoes, but also the giving spirit the company holds by donating a pair of shoes for every pair bought, to a child in need. I've never heard of such a deal, but it's true. For every pair of shoes that you purchase another pair will be given to a child in need. DOPE! And may I add that you can wear TOMS with just about EVERYTHING?! Jeans, skirts, shorts and especially your newly purchased julezforjapan shirt. You can get purchase TOMS here.

These fabulous acts of philanthropy just reminds us that not only can we be fly, but conscious while doing so. And whats flyer than that?

Stay True,
Riss

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Apologies to Mrs. Recy Taylor

It's been a long time coming but, finally Alabama native Recy Taylor is receiving apologies from her home state for the mishandling of her 1944 rape case.

Earlier this week the house came to a unanimous voice vote while issuing "deepest sympathies and solemn regrets' to Recy Taylor.

According to theroot.com, ninety-one-year-old Recy Taylor, who now resides in Florida, was raped by six white men while walking home from church in Abbeville, Alabama. This case landed in the hands of the NAACP activist and anti-rape crusader Rosa Parks, whose main focus at that time was sexual assaults again Black women in the Jim Crow south. Although, the case made international headlines the assailants were never punished. Now, sixty seven years later, Recy Taylor is now getting her fair apologies. Although, it will never take away from the pain and memory of that day it can be looked at as a step forward and a needed reminder of our history.

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A Passion for Service

Caring is sharing, I've heard said and I agree. In many cases we as a people are helped; individually and collectively. It may not be possible that we always have something to spare, but assistance is not always monetary. It can be good advice, or even an ear to listen. I wake up everyday grateful for my support system and the blessings I have received from up above. I encourage everyone not take one moment for granted, and when able, HELP ANOTHER.


I would like to pass on some information regarding opportunities to lend a hand in NYC:


- Now, through April 22nd you can donate lightly warn shoes to Soles4Souls who are collecting said items in an effort to fight the war on poverty, and help those in need of shoes. You can drop your donation off to Community Christian Church located at 145 W. 110th Street or visit their website for more locations.

- This coming Sunday, April 3rd non-profit Best Buddies helps students with intellectual disabilities. The second Annual Best Buddies NYC Friendship Walk will be held in Washington Square Park. Check in is at 930 A.M. and there is no registration fee.


Get out in the community and be of service. What better way to live, spread inspiration and love?!


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Women in the World Summit

The Women in the World Summit took place this past weekend in NYC. With women sharing their stories and solutions to the problems they face, it was a moment of empowerment during Women's History Month. Jewelry designer, David Yurman took part in the Women in the World summit by hosting the auction to help raise funds for organizations that make a difference in the lives of women and girls. Not only is the winning bidder supporting a cause they believe in, but this person is also bidding on something one-of-a-kind. David Yurman cordially invites the winner and guests for a special afternoon, featuring unique access into the world of the premiere luxury jewelry and timepiece designer and an exclusive presentation of his collections.

Doesn't that sound like a treat! The winning bidder and two guests will have an Upper East Side French lunch, and then visit the David Yurman Townhouse on Madison Avenue for an intimate presentation of jewels from David Yurman’s Limited Edition and Couture collections. In addition, she will receive a limited edition David Yurman Infinity gold and diamond necklace, customized to celebrate Women in the World 2011. This exceptional limited edition piece will be one that only this person and her two friends will own, reminding them of the unity and bond shared as women and a priceless treasure to always remember the day and of the winning bidder's generous contribution.

Let us spread love and celebrate the success, strength and power of women around the world.
You can view/enter the auction on charitybuzz here
To learn more about this great cause click here

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"Georgia" - A One Woman Show

If you didn't know it was Women's History Month, you should by now. Let us take you to Georgia...not literally, but if you enjoy theater, this may be a show you don't want to miss. Georgia is a one-woman play about a young couple who revels in the dangers and complexities of love. The play investigates the windows of good, evil and the sometimes blurry lines in between. Forcing an analysis of opposing view points in relation to one another, Georgia opens the door on one of the most taboo interactions between a man and a woman.

Georgia was produced by our friend Kevin Benoit of Parlé Entertainment. He's known for putting together great poetry events in NYC. Fariso Jordan, who holds the leading role in Georgia, is an actress and playwright who is avidly invested in the condition of the world. Fariso Jordan directs her creative talents towards telling stories that matter. She is a committed to engaging her passion and inventiveness to create multi-sensory experiences that shift the spirits of her audience members.

With these two joining forces, you can only imagine how much of a great production you're in for.

If you're interested in seeing Georgia, you can catch it on
Sat. March 26th at 7pm || Sun. March 27th at 6pm || Mon. March 28th at 7pm
at the Nuyorican Poets Café
$10 w/Student ID, $15 General Admission

For more information visit www.FarisoJordan.com

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The Trunk Sale

Calling all fashionistas! There is a trunk sale, or shall I say "The Trunk Sale", going on this weekend; Saturday March 12th.

Wondering what a trunk sale is? It's kind of an indoor flea market for people who want to sell clothing, shoes, jewelry, and art. In other words, its any fashionista's heaven.

"The Trunk Sale" takes place every two months and will have a bar, a tailor on site and live music! And not only do you have a one stop shop to tons of dope items, but you can also trade or sell if you'd like to. If you have any items that you would like to get rid of, paint or make jewelry this is this place to be. There is a small fee for those who would like to sell, and the seller keeps all their profit.

You will be given your own rack or flea market. Trunk sales are the ultimate place for dope people to buy, sell or swap.

This particular trunk sale will be taken place in Williamsburg, Brooklyn 239 Troutman St apt 3L.
For more information you can contact thetrunksales@gmail.com.

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Stay True,
Riss

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Women of The Revolution

In honor of International Women's Day, Egyptian women took to the streets of Tahrir Square demanding equal rights and an end to sexual harassment. But, according to google.com the women of Egypt were not met with open arms but were instead taunted by crowds of men and harassed.This a painful reminder that sexual harassment is still widespread throughout Egypt, despite their progressive movement and overthrow of oppressive President Hosni Mubarak last month. The progressive movement in which many Egyptian women took part in and helped contribute to its success. Now eyeask the question while we celebrate Women's History Month...

Who will celebrate, support and fight for the women of the revolution?

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Stay True,
Riss

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Black & Ugly x Denzil Porter

Black & Ugly Clothing, is a socially and politically conscious urban clothing line, founded by Sherifa Gayle. The line will go on sale to the public on February 11, 2011 via www.blacknugly.com; just in time for Black History Month. The site will have Black & Ugly's Spring/Summer 2011 unisex collection ready for purchase. The collection features designs of Pharaoh and Nefertiti in rich African inspired hues. The line will launch with t-shirts, crewneck sweaters, cardigans, hats and pins. As the weather begins to warm up in 2011, Black & Ugly Clothing will expand into jackets and more accessories.

To kick off fashion week, B&U will be hosting their launch party Friday, February 11, 2011 at Madame X Bar and Lounge located at 94 West Houston Street in New York City. Doors open at 7pm and the collection will be showcased during a fashion show beginning promptly at 8pm. The show will be followed by a performance by rapper Denzil Porter (formerly known as Young Flame), and a raffle giving participants a chance to win a Black & Ugly sweater. Guests will be able to purchase pieces from the line while mingling and celebrating the launch of the website.

The website will be linked to the non-profit organization DORCAS (Development Organization Reaching Children to Achieve Success), catering to the educational and social needs of today's youth and their families. BlacknUgly.com will also provide information on upcoming events and news within the Black community and events that lend a helping hand to the youth. Sherifa Gayle founded Black & Ugly Clothing in December 2008. Sherifa wanted to start a pro-black line with a message representing her people's past struggles, present accomplishments and their future endeavors; an Afro-centric inspired line that caters to the urban sense and beyond.

For more information please visit:
www.blacknugly.com
"Make a Statement. BU."

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Giving Back Makes a Difference

It warms a true sports fans heart when their team of choice, or athlete, feels compelled to acknowledge their debt to the fans. Without the fans, sports would be nothing. Recently, the Philadelphia Eagles did their part in giving back to the community which supports them; more specifically, a child in need. This child, Nadin Khoury, of Pennsylvania, had been going through a tumultous time at school as a result of hazing and bullying at the hands of his peers.

On January 11th, Nadin was the victim of being drug through the snow by seven other teenage boys,and afterwards hung in a nearby tree. As Nadin hollered in anguish one of the culprates felt the need to video-record his horror. When authorities responded, arresting the young men, they showed Nadin and his family the recording with Nadin responding, "I was trying to escape and to get away from them. For the first two days after my body still hurt. But after that I just got mad everytime I think about it" (Courtesy of the Daily News).

The story was picked up by ABC News and local media, prompting arguably the surprise of young Nadin's life. He was a guest on The View, where Nadin informed the women that he wants to offer encouragement to other kids who are victims of bullying. At the end of the interview DeSean Jackson, Todd Herremans, and Jamal Jackson made a special appearance bringing Nadin a special gift.

See video of Nadin and family on the view below:

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*Photo credit: eaglescentral.com

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Hipsy by Nyne Lyves

I've discovered some jewels that I just have to share with my fashion loving guys and gals. These jewels are from a Brooklyn based gal that goes by the name Nyne who hand makes funky, eclectic and bold pieces for the Hipsy ones that aren't afraid to stand out!

Nyne is mostly known for her nose chains that can be seen on Young Money's Shanell. It's fine if you don't have a nose piercing, there are other cool things that can be adorned. Such as, "The Love Below"; an ear to ear chain that is accompanied by a pink and blue feather which was inspired by the song "Pretty Pink Baby Blue" on Outkast's "The Love Below"' album. And don't worry fellas Nyne has debuted some pieces for the guys too. Her male pieces are promising for the eclectic funky man.

My personal favorite piece for the men is the "Granted" bracelet; which is "for the Man that doesn't take things for granted, for he is humble and honorable." These are a few of my favorite pieces from the "Hipsy" collection that launched earlier last week. So, if you dare to be FLY these jewels are for you and can be found at nynelyves.bigcartel.com. I hope you enjoy them as much I do!

Spread Love. Live life. Be Inspired.

Stay True,

Riss

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Gifted Bloggers: TLB

Blogging: A universal form of writing where people share their thoughts, opinions, photos, videos, etc. for the world to see. Some blog about music, relationships, and food, while others may choose to use their blog as a form of an open diary. Whatever your cup of tea is when it comes to blogging, you stumble upon your favorite blogs once you enter into the blogosphere. One blogger that I find to be gifted in what she does is The Lady Blogga.

The Lady Blogga is currently gearing up to release of her book, “The Little Things We Learn In Life” ; which is a 3 book series that focuses on three important aspects of life…“the Heart”, “the Grind”, “the Fam”. Book 1, “the Heart” is due out next month. ”the Heart” takes the reader on a myriad of journeys through various relationships. Relationships that are affected by some of the same things that are dealt with in real life. Mistresses, occupations, Social Networking… But it also gives the other side. Love, Happiness, Togetherness. The objective behind the book is to help the reader see beyond their own situation (thaladyblogga.com).

Other than preparing herself for becoming a published writer with a book on the shelves of your favorite bookstores (and hopefully, the New York Times Best-Sellers list), she's not afraid to speak her mind! Don't believe me?

Check out the blog for yourself and read "What She Said"
♥ t i f f a n y
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eyesInDaSpot: Midnight Madness, RECAP!

We kicked off the first weekend of December by hosting Midnight Madness: Eric Sosa & the Oxymorrons Live ft. Ayindé. The event took place on the campus of SUNY College at Oneonta at the Hunt Union Waterfront Café. We hosted the performances, and they were great; the best I've ever seen these guys perform before! The ladies and gents loved them, the energy was there and on a 10. Once we finished with the performance portion, DJ Omar & DJ S.Whit transitioned the rest of the night into party mode, and we're sure you can use your imaginations with that one. Overall the event was a success! Take a look at some photos from the event below...

[DANiE & ♥ t i f f a n y, Ayindé, Eric Sosa, Oxymorrons]

Click here for more photos from Midnight Madness by HorQet

Special thank yous go out to: Sosa Management Corp., Oxymorrons, Imperial Marketing Group, the Multicultural Student Council at SUCO, Vandell Photography, HorQet Photography, WONY 90.9FM, DJ Ten, DJ S.Whit, DJ Omar, Ryan Faussette, Nastasia Thompson, Steve Jenkins, Ayindé, Eric Sosa, and the Oxymorrons.

♥ team elleELLEeye
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And ANTM is... Ann!

The cycle 15 winner of America's Next Top Model is Ann the season's underdog from Dallas. Ann's win shocked most of the show's fans on the Dec 1st finale due to the fact that she was looked up as the quirky one with her super skinny, tall physique, gap teeth and shy personality.

Ann's awkwardness was especially noticeable next to the runner up Chelsey, who was the girl next door and every one's pick to win. Ann will receive a spread in Vogue Italia, a spread and cover in Beauty in Vogue, along with a feature in vogue.it. She will also receive a contract with IMG models and a $100,000 contract with Cover Girl cosmetics. Ann's win has reinforced the idea of embracing your differences and reminded us that its cool and beautiful to be different. I'll be looking forward to seeing the underdog grace magazine covers, what about you?

Stay true,

Riss
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eyeWatch My Heath: Loco For Lokos?

According to theroot.com, Washington state attorney general Rob Mckenna is pushing for the FDA to ban the popular alcoholic beverage Four Loko nationwide. This push is the aftermath of a recent incident where 50 Central Washington University students became sick from drinking Four Loko's at a house party.

Four Loko is said to contain as much alcohol found in a six pack and as much caffeine as in five cups of coffee. I don't know about you guys but, this just sounds like a bad combination to me. Although, this is a cheap quick fix I truly believe its not worth risking your own health.

My Four Loko days are dead and gone, what about yours?

Stay True,
Riss

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The Newest Eye

Hi, this is Arissa the newest eye to the elleELLEeye team. I'm a 21-year-old aspiring journalist from LI. Technically, I'm the current events and fashion blogger. I'll be sharing with you all the important issues that affect our community and world. I'll also be discussing the latest fashion, and things that I particularly find to be dope.

The reason that I chose to write about current events, is because I feel that we need to stay informed in order to be productive citizens. I chose to write about fashion because everyone loves to look and feel fabulous! So, it's a basic balance of necessity and luxury; which is what I'm all about. I love to try to keep the balance in my life, and I hope to bring that quality to elleELLEeye. So, you can expect posts that are fun, bold and entertaining - along with serious, informative and truthful. I hope you guys can keep up, and somewhere along this journey, I hope to inspire and be inspired.

Stay true,

Riss

Spread Love. Live life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

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Black August

Every month has its significance. In January, a new year begins. February is Black History Month, October, is the National month for Lupus awareness, and the list goes on and on. The same goes for August. The Black August tradition was established during the 1970s. It started in the California prison system by men and women of the Black/New Afrikan Liberation Movement. This was done as a means of acknowledging and studying the legacy of Afrikan resistance in the Americas, and honoring fallen freedom fighters like George and Jonathan Jackson, Khatari Gaulden, James McClain, Williams Christmas and Fred Hampton.

Black August promotes a "non-sectarian mass based" resistance culture inside and outside the prison walls across the United States. The brothers who participated in the collective founding of Black August wore black arm bands on their left arm and studied revolutionary works, focusing on the works of George Jackson. The brothers did not listen to the radio or watch television in August. Additionally, they didn't eat or drink anything from sun-up to sundown; and loud and boastful behavior was not allowed. The brothers did not support the prison's canteen. The use of drugs and alcoholic beverages was prohibited and the brothers held daily exercises, because during Black August, emphasis is placed on sacrifice, fortitude and discipline. Black August is still a time to embrace the principles of 1) unity; 2) self-sacrifice; 3) political education; 4) physical training; and 5) resistance.

Traditionally, Black August is a time to study history, particularly our history in the North American Empire. The first Afrikans were brought to Jamestown as slaves in August of 1619, so August is a month during which Blacks can reflect on our current situation and our self-determining rights.

August 1619 - Arrival of first African slaves in 13 colonies
August 21, 1791 - Haiti slave uprising for independence
August 30, 1800 - Gabriel Prosser's slave revolt discovered
August 21, 1831 - Nat Turner's slave rebellion
August 1850 - Underground Railroad
August 17, 1887 - Birth of Marcus Garvey
August 24, 1943 - Birth of Russell "Maroon" Shoatz
August 30, 1948 - Birth of Fred Hampton
August 8, 1949 - Birth of Dr. Mutulu Shakur
August 1963 - March on Washington
August 1965 - Watts Rebellion
August 25, 1967 - FBI circulates internal order to "disrupt" Black
Liberation groups
August 7, 1970 - Courthouse Slave Rebellion
August 18, 1971 - Capital of Republic of New Afrika attacked by FBI and
police
August 21, 1971 - Assasination of George Jackson
August 28, 1971 - Jalil Muntaqim and Nuh Washington captured
August 8, 1978 - Police raid on MOVE
August 17, 1995 - Mumia scheduled for execution; stopped by resistance

♥ t i f f a n y
"Spread the love and live your life; while seeking to inspire and be inspired."
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

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YES WE CAN!

The United States House of Representatives passed a historic piece of legislation; a healthcare reform bill that promises to extend coverage to millions who have been denied for reasons ranging from poverty to preexisting conditions.

It was a resounding victory for President Barack Obama, but how will this new law affect you?

We looked into the bill to find out what changes will kick in immediately and what we're going to have wait a few years for. Here's a breakdown:

2010:

* Effective immediately, insurance companies will no longer be able to cap or limit the amount they spend on your care in a lifetime. This is especially important for those struggling with lifetime chronic illness and or potentially fatal diseases (i.e. cancer, HIV, emphysema).

* Insurance carriers will no longer be able to deny you coverage based on preexisting conditions. The new law stipulates that $5 billion be set aside to help cover those have been denied insurance in the past. This money is earmarked to be used until the full coverage of the bill comes into effect in 2014.

* Insurance co.'s will have to extend coverage for children up to the age 26, effective immediately. Right now, the carriers are only obligated to cover older children up until they graduate college.

* A $250 credit will be extended to all seniors on Medicaid, in order to help close the gap in coverage as it pertains to prescription drug plans. This is a temporary fix as the bill enforces much stricter cost caps to drug companies, ensuring that prescriptions drugs prices will be reduced by up to 50% in 2011 and up to 75% by 2020.

By 2014:

* Health insurance exchanges touted heavily by the Obama administration will take effect, allowing small businesses, as well as those who are self-employed and/or unemployed to band together to buy less expensive insurance coverage.

* You will be required to have health insurance or face fines ranging from $95 or 1% of your income, whichever is greater. By 2015 the fee will go up to 2% of gross income, and by 2016 it rises to 2.5%. This plan includes an exemption for poor families and families of four making less than $88,000 annually.

* Medicaid will be expanded to cover poor adults and not just the elderly or those with children.

* Tax breaks will be provided to families to assist in offsetting the cost of health insurance coverage. The amounts will be based on annual income.

What does this reform mean to you?
Courtesy of Terra.com

Deuces,
DANiE

Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society