“They Call Me LaQueefa”

Unfortunately, people, I can’t make this stuff up, even if I wanted to.  Lifetime’s show “Dance Moms” recently had an episode where dance student Nia, the only African-American girl on the show, was required to do an “ethnic” dance complete with a tight leopard catsuit and black afro.  Of course, Nia’s mom, Holly, voiced her concerns with dance instructor Abby.  But I’m not sure what good that did; Nia still performed in the showcase.  When Abby suggested to Holly that she take her resources and find her own choreographer for Nia’s performance, she backed down. 

First of all, it says a lot when a Caucasian woman can get on national television  in 2011 and can tell a Black mother that she IS stereotyping her daughter.  Abby’s excuse was that Nia has to be able to perform when she appears at auditions where they are looking for “ethnic” dancers.  This is the biggest load of crap I’ve heard in awhile.  If I were Holly, I would have gotten my daughter, gathered up her things, and walked out of the studio.  You know what was even more offensive than the outfit?   It was the dance itself along with the music, which had no type of ethnic beats or moves.   Are we that hard up for fame that we sacrifice our children now?  Not only that, but isn’t Holly concerned about the ramifications this performance may have on the psyche of Nia?   

I understand that parents have dreams for their offspring.  But what is little Nia going to think 10 years from now when she sees this tape?  And if she’s lucky, it may not even take her that long to realize EVERYTHING that is wrong with this episode involving her and her mother. 

Does racism still exist in this country?  Absolutely.  And this show proves it.  It’s just really disheartening to see a child used in this way.  Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl…in the city.

The Ridiculousness of it All

Today’s post will be short and to the point (I hope). 

First, let’s talk about Khloe’ Kardashian Odom’s “nip slip”.  She knew what she was doing-it was no accident.  She even stated on her blog that her stylist told her to wear a bra before her Fox & Friends appearance, but Khloe’ decided to go commando anyway.  Why?  Because she’s an attention whore.  You all know I love “Keeping up with the Kardashians”, but let’s call a spade a spade.  The whole family is full of nothing but attention seekers.  People seem to be making a big deal out of the fact that Khloe’ admitted she likes nipples.  I’m more surprised at the fact that she showed hers on live television…well, maybe not. 

Why do married men (really anyone) involve themselves in sexting?  And why do public figures send these inappropriate pics to women who are not their wives?   Are they stupid?  Crazy?  Deranged?  Or do they just not give a f*ck???  No matter what we think about Anthony Weiner’s actions, it’s so easy to say what we would if we were in that situation.  In regards to Weiner and his wife, Huma Abedin-please leave these people alone and let them live their lives.  If she chooses to stay in her marriage, that’s her decision.  Who are we-strangers-to suggest what she should do?  Yes, we should hold our elected politicians to higher standards, but unfortunately, some have a tendency to disappoint. 

So how many more teachers are going to sleep with students?  What about a child is sexually pleasing?  I don’t understand how these grown women can manipulate these young boys.  It’s really, really sick.  This goes to show that women can be sexual predators and prey on children, too.  And now the latest woman to sleep with a student, Rene Chantel Frank, is bringing children into the world???

Even though he didn’t mention a name, megachurch pastor Creflo Dollar told his congregation from the pulpit on Sunday that a certain preacher, who was a “friend”, had a “wreck” and should be forgiven.  (Check out the story here.)  Ok, let’s be real.  As my Auntie Madeline and I discussed, this man premeditated his actions.  And he’s a hypocrite.  You can’t speak out against homosexuality and BE a homosexual.  Yes, as Creflo Dollar stated, everyone deserves to be forgiven, but what would I look like having a predator, manipulator, and abuser as the head of my spiritual life? 

That’s all the ridiculousness I have today.  I’m sure this won’t be the last time I share some with you guys.  Feel free to share some of your own or your thoughts on the ridiculousness I’ve shared.  Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl…in the city.

This Week in the News

It’s a gorgeous day in the District!  I may go out, explore the city, take a leisurely stroll, enjoy some ice cream…ok, who am I kidding?  I’ll probably be at work most of the day.  But a girl can dream can’t she??? And speaking of dreaming…

Hopefully this story is not true.  If you’re a fan on Facebook, then you saw me mention this-Carmelo Anthony may have a secret love child.  Yep, I was just as shocked as you when I heard it.  It appears Carmelo’s trade to the Knicks is beneficial for him in more ways than one.  Rumor has it that he has an 11 month old whose mother lives in the NY area.  You all know I don’t normally report too much gossip on this blog, but I couldn’t let this go, what with LaLa Vazquez (Carmelo’s wife) having this show that centered around their wedding and her putting out for the world to see this wonderful relationship they have.  As a couple who lived together and had a baby without being married, I thought it was a little strange that they decided to go ahead and get married. But hey, who am I to say anything?  Besides, I love when people make a lifetime commitment to one another so I was happy.  I’m sure we’ll be keeping our eyes on this one…actually, I won’t be trying that hard as it’s none of my business. 

I don’t curse too much on this blog, but what the hell is going on in this city???  How does a child in elementary school get his or her hands on cocaine??? Yep, you read correctly.  Five students at Thomson Elementary School in Northwest were sent to the hospital after ingesting cocaine.  (Read the story here.)  What is happening in our homes?  What are we teaching our children?  Some parents seem to be upset with the school, but this really isn’t the school’s lacking in any area, IMHO.  The problem lies in the home of this child, who is being charged with possession of a controlled substance,  that brought the drug to school.  And who made the decision to arrest this child?  Or am I being naive because of the age of this student?  I don’t know, something’s just not right with this picture.  Department of Children and Families needs to become involved and visit the home.

As if DC doesn’t have enough issues, the Gray Campaign is being investigated by Congress.  Former city employee Sulaimon Brown, who was a minor mayoral candidate, claims he was asked by the Gray Campaign to attack former DC Mayor Adrian Fenty on the campaign trail.  Once Gray took office, Brown was given a job with the city that paid him over $100k a year.  Upon the discovery of his shady background and run-ins with the law, Brown was terminated.  Bitter and mad, he has come out with these allegations.  All I have to say is, “If it ain’t one thing, it’s another…”

I’m not going to spend too much time on this one, but can I say I am shocked and appalled at the Department of Public Works???  DPW, which is responsible for writing and distributing tickets in DC, has racked up over $30,000 worth of parking tickets!!!  Over 90 vehicles have received tickets for various parking infractions.  Yeah, I’m over it. (And if I spoke with you about 2 weeks ago, you know why….)

What’s going on in your worlds?  I specifically didn’t talk about Libya and Japan.  It’s too much, and I’m not touching any of it.  I hope you all have a great weekend!  If you’re in the District, do like me (Idon’t think that’s correct grammar) and get out and enjoy this beautiful weather…because next week it’ll be back in the 50’s!  Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl..in the city!

This Week in the News-The Ridiculousness…

Happy Friday!  Yes, it’s late in the day, but there are some things that need to be discussed, so I’m going to talk about them.  As you guessed, topics in this week’s post will highlight the ridiculous things that people do.

First, let’s talk about Charlie Sheen.  In the span of less than a week, this man has turned himself into some type of iconic figure.  People are using his quotes on Facebook and Twitter, people are calling him a genius, and despite the fact he was living with two porn stars, women are developing crushes on this bad boy.  (I heard one say it with my own ears.)  Let’s call a spade a spade folks.  Charlie is an Attention Whore.  Nothing’s wrong with that, but let’s be honest with ourselves.  Nobody was stuntin’ (yes, I used Ebonics) ol’ Charlie until his show he was sent to rehab, and he publicly put down his boss.  Instead of giving credence and attention this overpaid actor, let’s start focusing on things that matter…

…like this.  What in the H*LL would make this man (or anyone for that matter) rape a 2 year old????  This guy, Michael Grzybowicz, is accused of possessing child pornography after pictures of his co-worker’s two year old daughter being violated were found on his phone.  Apparently, this man took pictures of himself raping this baby.  I don’t know what is wrong with people, but I will be praying for this little girl and hoping this man gets put under the jail…

So, who heard about John Galliano making racist and anti-Semitic remarks in a Paris cafe’??? *raises hand*  The former head designer for Christian Dior was FIRED for his comments.  Apparently, it’s illegal in France to make anti-Semitic remarks.  I know we all are entitled to free speech, but I sometimes wish racist remarks were made illegal in the US.  But that’s another story for another day.  While Nicole Kidman looked gorgeous in her Christian Dior gown on Oscar night, she was the only celeb to sport the designer that evening. 

Have you ever had to been assigned to a “slave” group in school?  Have you ever had your classmates who were in the other group, “master”, come and feel your legs, arms, or any other body part to feel how “strong” you are?  No.  Well, neither have I.  Unfortunately Nikko Burton has to say “yes”.  This 10 year old was forced to play a slave in his social studies class.  This “lesson”, if you can really call it that, is inappropriate on SO many levels.  Apparently, his teacher created the lesson so students could empathize with slaves.  Uh, wrong way to go about it, lady!!!  And who is the principal or department head that approved this lesson?!?!?  All of them should be fired and forced to take some type of sensitivity class. 

*Just a note, if you want people to empathize and get a better understanding of what is was like to be a slave, show them the slave quarters at a plantation, show them some auction blocks, or show them a sign announcing a slave auction. #thatisall*

I think I’m done.  Is there any other ridiculous news that went on this week that I missed?  If so, please share.  Enjoy your weekend.  Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl…in the city!

The Things Celebrities Do…

Happy Friday, folks!  Let’s get right to the news because we have no time to waste!

First, can we talk about Kim Kardashian freezing on stage with Prince?!?!?  Ya’ll know I heart Kim K., but she embarassed me (well…really herself) when she got invited to dance with Prince ONSTAGE and froze!!!  Even if I didn’t have any rhythm, I would have faked it.  I mean, how many people can say they danced with PRINCE-ONSTAGE?!?!  But Kimmy redeemed herself when 2 hours later Prince invited her back.  This time she was able to dance.  And I should hope so.  She moves everywhere else.  And speaking of Kim K., can I just mention that I hated her Super Bowl Skechers commercial and the fact she was whining about her nipple showing in “W” magazine?  Yeah, whack commercial and whining for no reason.  Pressing on…

I am SO disappointed with Mark Sanchez’s “alleged” relationship with this 17 year old.  But I feel more for this girl, not because I think she’s innocent or anything of the sort, but because she can’t make up her mind if she wants the world to know she banged an NFL quarterback or if she wants to keep him her secret.   Mark should have known that it was not in his best interest to mess with some kid…and that’s exactly what she is.  I’m really torn on this situation because I feel like they were both in the wrong.  But I have to think if I had the opportunity to be with a multi-million dollar athlete at 17 would I do it?  Probably not.  I actually came across a professional athlete while a Junior in high school, and I let him pass me by…but that’s another story for another day.

So, Rihanna is lessening some of the stipulations on her restraining order on Chris Brown so they can have contact?  I won’t comment but you guys can…

Another thing I’m not touching?  The whole fiasco with former N.Y. Congressman Chris Lee.  But you guys can.

In case you missed the FLOTUS on the “Today Show” this past Wednesday, take a looksie here!  #WeLovetheFirstLady

Ok, I’m finished!   What do you guys think about this week’s news?  What did I forget to mention?  Enjoy your weekend, be safe, and I’ll be back on Monday! Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl…in the city!

Today’s Black History Month fact is about my alma mater, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University!  (The # 1 HBCU on the HIGHEST of 7 hills!)  FAMU was founded on October 3, 1887 as the State Normal College for Colored Students.   Florida A&M is currently the only publicly funded historically black college or university in the state of Florida.   FAMU has such a rich history and continues to be one of the leading institutions of higher learning in the US to grant undergraduate degrees to African-American students.