Actress Uzo Aduba wins Emmy for portrayal of ‘Crazy Eyes’ on the Netflix series Orange is the New Black. (Google Images)
Michael O’Connell and Bryn Elise Sandberg of The Hollywood Reporter are reporting that Orange is the New Black’s Uzo Aduba has won her first Emmy as outstanding guest actress in comedy during Saturday’s Creative Arts Emmys. Aduba plays the role of “Crazy Eyes” on the hit Netflix series that takes place in a women’s correctional facility.
Uzo Aduba as ‘Crazy Eyes.’ (Google Images)
O’Connell and Sandberg write:
“Aduba gives her celebrated Netflix series its first acting kudo at the Emmys, and was one of the streaming service’s seven awards announced during the evening.
“‘I don’t know how to say how incredibly impressed I am to be a part of this show day in, day out,’ said a teary-eyed Aduba from the podium after presenter Morgan Freeman handed the awestruck actress her award.
Backstage, the 33-year-old found herself on the verge of crying once again. ‘I feel so full, that’s why the tears come out,’ she told reporters, adding: ‘I’m stuffed. My cup runneth over right now. Mission accomplished, thank you.'”
Caricom Headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo Credit: Google Images)
Caribbean 360 is reporting that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has begun working towards creating a unified framework within which companies and other businesses can be established and operate in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). A consultancy group has been appointed to oversee the project along with Agricultural Economics, Sociology and Education (AESE).
The author writes:
“CARICOM heads are striving to ensure that the rules for establishing and operating businesses in one country apply throughout the CSME. The two year consultancy started last month, with funding through the 10th European Development Fund and is expected to be completed by July 2016.”
In addition to streamlining business rules, the initiative hopes to regulate competition, strengthen consumer protection and to create a structure for start-ups.
AllAfrica.com is reporting that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said that reports of the experimental drug for treating Ebola is a pesticide and should not be used to prevent, treat or cure Ebola. Reports that nano-silver could treat or prevent the disease were widely reported, but the FDA says the claims are not true. The author writes:
“The US agency said it had received consumer complaints about the Ebola claims. ‘Individuals promoting these unapproved and fraudulent products must take immediate action to correct or remove these claims or face FDA action,’ it said.
Silver has been used as antibacterial for centuries. Tiny silver particles known as nano-silver have controversially been incorporated into a variety of consumer products such as socks and bedding to help block odors caused by bacteria and mold.”
Many had pinned their hopes on nano-silver curing the disease which experts fear may reach epidemic levels in Nigeria and Liberia if not cured.
Manny Fantis of WUSA is reporting that Mya Aeten-White, a 2012 Howard University graduate, who was shot during the Ferguson protests, will recover from her injuries. Aeten-White says she was shot in the head on Wednesday when police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at the crowds of protestors who had gathered to protest the killing of unarmed teenager Michael Brown.
Fantis writes:
“Mya White shared a photo on Instagram of her face scraped and bruised and with her neck in a brace.
On Thursday, she shared a post that read: ‘We don’t die. We multiply.’ That post was shared thousands of times and her story is becoming one of the many viral social media stories from the situation in Ferguson.”
Aeten-White was attending graduate school in St. Louis. She posted on her Instagram account that she was “okay” and in police custody.
Howard University issued a statement on Aeten-White via Twitter:
Legendary comedians Robin Williams, Richard Pryor and actor Burt Reynolds at the Comedy Store in 1970s (Tumblr).
The world is reeling from the death of beloved actor/comedian Robin Williams. While many attribute Williams’ start to his role on the sitcom Mork & Mindy, what many don’t know is that Williams got his start in show business from legendary comedian Richard Pryor. Williams comedic potential is evident in these classic performances from the short-lived, yet classic The Richard Pryor Show. The comedic genius of Pryor and Williams is on full display in these scenes. Williams’ work as a comedian and actor resulted in an Oscar win for Best Supporting Actor in the film Good Will Hunting.
Watch his brilliant performances on The Richard Pryor Show and his 1998 Academy Awards acceptance speech below.
R&B music icon Usher speaks at Usher New Look Foundation luncheon at the St. Regis in Atlanta, Ga. (Photo Credit Joni Heart)
Fifteen years ago, 20-year-old Usher and his mother, Jonetta Patton, devised a plan they hoped could provide at least 10 teens per year with invaluable experiences and opportunities they couldn’t get elsewhere.
The soft spoken, best-selling artist’s vision blossomed into Usher’s New Look (UNL), a nonprofit organization that instills in youth that talent, career, service and education are essential tools for developing into global leaders.
UNL, originally a two-week camp for close to 150 teens, steadily evolved into chapters in Atlanta, Milwaukee, Los Angeles, New York and Detroit. Twenty-one thousand teens from around the world have participated in the foundation’s various programs to date.
Usher came up with UNL after he and his mother sat in the rear of a courtroom. The pair watched several minors go to trial and knew that something had to be done. The now 35-year-old megastar-turned-humanitarian admits he didn’t know what he was doing at first.
The multi-talented entertainer gives serious eye contact whenever he speaks: particularly when it involves UNL. He considers the 501c3 organization to be “his greatest investment.”
“It sounds so simple, but this started as the result of a dream to do something positive,” says a well-tailored Usher dressed in all-white. “This really is a passion project that encourages youth to be passionate about something. I was more afraid of them than they were of me.”
The most extraordinary quality about UNL is how the organization places emphasis on personal and career development using a peer-to-peer model. The Moguls in Training (MITs) have conducted Powered By Service (PBS) training throughout Hong Kong, Kenya, London, Vancouver and Shanghai.
If he’s not on tour or recording, Usher is completely hands on.
The program lets participants shadow executives at Fortune 500 companies. Pupils have landed internships at UNL’s partners like Turner Broadcasting and General Electric.
Over $6 billion from the stimulus package was allocated towards various service organizations nationwide. One representative on Capitol Hill was so moved by the reformed Kansas City native’s testimony, he quoted excerpts from Harris’ statement in the actual bill.
“I was speaking for youth around the world like me,” says Harris via phone. “The stories are what fuel the organization. From day one, [Usher] was preparing me for a job I didn’t know I was going to get.”
Harris admits to once being “part of the problem.” The hip hop artist-turned-owner of his own imprint, LoudPack Productions, had hopes of being discovered and signed by Usher.
Upon arriving at UNL, Harris learned how to draft a business plan and contribute to group projects. “I was getting put on to a better life,” adds Harris. “They put us in real world experiences, so I know what’s on the line.”
Tony Betton credits UNL for giving him moral support and encouragement. He witnessed his mother deal with a bout of unemployment. Their home was also on the verge of foreclosure. Despite the obstacles, the exceptional student was inducted into the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS): graduating in the top 10 percent of his senior class with a 3.7 GPA.
The incoming freshman at Georgia State University earned over $365,000 in scholarships. “It hasn’t been easy,” says Betton. “I can say I made it, and I didn’t do it alone.”
Currently putting the finishing touches on his eighth studio album, Usher was one of the star coaches on this past season of NBC’s The Voice.
He made sure Kaufman sang with a mirror as his only prop. Kaufman also had to run around on-stage to build up his endurance.
The mentee asserts that Usher’s mentoring went well beyond what television audiences are commonly exposed to.
“[Usher] was really invested in it,” says Kaufman immediately following a performance. “He really did want to work with me. He was happy where I was vocally, but he was about using those moments to make that connection with the audience.”
“He was all about using actions and examples,” adds an extroverted Kaufman. “There was something that went along with it to get his point across.”
“I’ve seen an even greater commitment and focus on philanthropy,” says McGuire. “The more that his career ascends, the more intentional he’s become to use that vehicle to provide access, real world experiences and exposure to our students.”
At the gala, Ludacris recalls sharing a flight with Usher. The pair was talking about collaborating on another single. The singer with nine #1 pop singles, minority owner in the Cleveland Cavaliers and his own fragrance listened to several tracks before he ultimately decided on the right song.
Ludacris says Usher’s resistance taught him a few lessons about embracing his artistry. “Patience is key to maintaining your integrity,” says Ludacris. “And if it’s meant to be, the Lord will put you in the position to receive it.”
Usher concurs. “To be prepared for life is more important than anything,” he says.
Tony award-winning director Kenny Leon attended the luncheon. He jokes that he “doesn’t have Usher on speed dial” but acknowledges how Usher allows his superstardom to leverage his willingness to pay-it-forward.
Leon mentions that he altered his calendar around just so he could attend. “It’s huge that someone of his stature walks the walk and talks the talk,” says Leon.
“The way he’s giving back is even bigger. These kids can see that. He’s reaching back and not kicking the ladder beneath him. He is someone that is doing something important for our country.”
Usher takes guidance, too. The vocalist’s next project is portraying boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard in the film Hands of Stone. Known for his incredible choreography, Usher spent two years preparing for the role.
The film is slated for release in 2015. Leonard was quite impressed with Usher’s work ethic.
“I couldn’t believe how diligent he was,” says Leonard prior to the luncheon. “I couldn’t think of a better person because of the footwork. He’s going to shock a lot of people because he shocked me.”
McGuire adds, “Through [Usher’s] business acumen, career, success and service, he is a true role model to our students. He has effectively established New Look and his work to help others into his overall brand.”
The future looks prosperous for UNL. There are plans to revive Camp New Look next year. The luncheon raised over $1 million before guests were seated. Usher couldn’t have been more proud and appreciative of UNL’s success.
Reiterating his extreme gratitude for UNL’s support, Usher clarifies that setting goals requires commitment and dedication.
The father of two young sons considers himself a father figure to UNL’s participants. “Dreams do come true,” he says softly prior to the 15th anniversary affair.
“Doing something positive does pay off. Looking back at some of the youth that I’ve been watching grow, it’s an incredible transformation. I almost feel like they were my kids before I had kids actually.”
This post was written by Christopher A. Daniel, pop cultural critic and music editor for The Burton Wire. He is also a contributing writer for Urban Lux Magazine and Blues & Soul Magazine. Follow Christopher @Journalistorian on Twitter.
Michael Brown, 18, was killed by a police officer in St. Louis County. (Photo: Facebook)
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that 32 people were arrested following uprisings by crowds protesting the killing of unarmed black teenager Michael Brown. Brown was shot and killed by a police officer in Ferguson, a small city outside St. Louis, on Saturday afternoon. His death prompted a series of protests and vigils, with some protests taking a violent turn on Sunday night as people looted in the Ferguson area.
The author writes:
“After protests and a vigil earlier in the day, some people broke into stores and looted them, setting fire to a QuikTrip and leaving glass and other debris strewn about.
Schellman said the looting and destruction stopped and the area had quieted a down about 3:30 a.m. Monday.
He said the police helicopter was shot at once or twice, but was not hit. He said the night was a scary situation for even veteran officers.
Jennings school district canceled the first day of school today, saying it was concerned for student safety in the wake of Sunday night’s violence.”
In other news, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched an investigation into the death of Michael Brown.
‘“We have initiated a civil rights investigation,’ Cheryl Mimura, spokeswoman for the FBI in St. Louis, told The Washington Post on Monday morning.
This does not mean that the FBI is taking over the investigation, as was reported earlier in the day by the Associated Press. Rather, this is a separate investigation to see if there were any civil rights violations, Mimura said.”‘
The FBI will monitor the investigation into Brown’s killing by the St. Louis County Police Department.
Reuters is reporting that the White House and the United States Food and Drug Administration have approved the request for sample doses of an experimental serum to treat Liberian doctors who are currently infected with the deadly Ebola virus.
The author writes:
“The statement, posted on the Liberian presidency’s official website, said the experimental drugs would be delivered to the West African country this week by a representative of the U.S. government, following a direct appeal to Obama on Friday by Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) is also dispatching the experimental serum to help the Liberian doctors infected with the virus.
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has also banned travel of Liberian government officials that are part of the Executive Branch for at least one month. She has also said that all officials traveling abroad for government or personal business are to return to the country or they will be considered as abandoning their jobs.
Nigeria’s minister of information debunked the myth that salt water baths would cure Ebola. (Google Images)
As fears mount, Nigerians are desperate to find natural cures for the Ebola virus. Nnenna Ibeh of Premium Times is reporting that Nigeria’s Minister of Information Labaran Maku, has issued a statement dismissing rumors that bathing in a hot water and salt solution can be used to prevent Ebola virus infection.
Ibeh writes:
“A statement signed by the Minister’s Chief Press Secretary, Joseph Mutah, said the speculation that salt and hot water solution cures the deadly viral disease is only a rumor. Mr. Maku said there was no cure for the disease yet. He urged Nigerians to, however, maintain maximum environmental and personal hygiene to guard against contracting the deadly virus. The social media late Thursday and early Friday went agog with information that salt and water could prevent infection by Ebola Virus.”
Despite the debunking of the rumors, many Nigerians are still using the salt bath solution as a proactive measure.
Writing for ValleyWag, Sam Biddle reports that yet another app to avoid black and brown neighborhoods is launching today.
SketchFactor, an app designed to help people avoid “sketchy” i.e. black neighborhoods clearly has a market since the developers are finalists in a New York City app competition. The app developers came up with the idea after living in and navigating through neighborhoods in Washington, DC, commonly referred to as Chocolate City because of the city’s large black population. Like many major cities, the nation’s capital has recently undergone urban renewal, also known as gentrification, resulting in an influx of affluent whites and the relocation of large groups of blacks, which has changed the demographics of the city significantly.
The developers decided to move to NYC to develop SketchFactor. They contend that this app is not racist or sexist. Biddle takes exception to this statement, pointing out the ways in which SketchFactor is “racist.” He writes:
“Is there any way to keep whitepeople from using computers, before this whole planet is ruined? I ask because the two enterprising white entrepreneurs above just made yetanother app for avoiding non-white areas of your town—and it’s really taking off!”
You may recall that Microsoft came under fire in 2012 for what was referred to as their “avoid the ghetto” feature on their GPS service. GhettoTracker.com also met with intense criticism in 2013 after people learned that the app would allow users to rate neighborhoods as good or “ghetto.” The happy white family in the advertisement helped clarify what was good, similar to the smiling white faces of the founders of the SketchFactor app.
Reuters
