Urban Lifestyle

*The R&B diva and Grammy award winning female vocalist is certainly no stranger to controversy and criticism.  But a resilient and liberated Fantasia took to the stage at the 30th Annual Long Beach Gay Pride Festival on Saturday night in Long Beach, California, rendering a passionate performance. Audaciously fierce and more confident than ever, “Tasia” boldly proclaimed, “I am doin’ me and I don’t care what nobody has to say,” before kicking off her heels onstage. Dressed in a white, tightly fitted cutout party dress, and revealing a much more slender and toned figure, the exceptional vocalist pumped up the crowd with her brief rendition of Drake’s “Started From The Bottom.” If the relationship between Fantasia and the LGBT community was strained by her seemingly disapproving comment about gay marriage posted on Instagram in late December of last year, there was certainly no evidence of that as the crowd of thousands eagerly welcomed and embraced her. To further demonstrate her affection for the supportive attendees, she spent several minutes stating, “I hate the gates” and requested venue workers to “open the gates” that were serving as a barrier between the stage and the front row of the audience.  She went on to clarify that she needed to “feel some people”—a gesture in alignment with her personable and down-to-earth reputation. But after a bit of housekeeping, ‘Tasia didn’t waste any time kicking into high vocal gear with crowd favorites like “Man of the House,” “Free Yourself” and “Collards and Cornbread.” Moments after confessing that she was a “music baby” who grew up on the “meat and potatoes” music from the 80s, Fantasia and her band brought the crowd to its feet with an invigorating throwback performance of “Nasty Girl” by Vanity 6, “In My House” by the Mary Jane Girls, Shelia E’s “The Glamorous Life” and “The Bird” by Morris Day & The Time. Visibly empowered and energized, ‘Tasia continued to walk the crowd down memory lane with her rendition of “If I Ruled The World.” Although concert goers got a strong sense of Fantasia’s reawakening as an individual and as an artist, when she performed “Bittersweet” and “Even Angels,” humbly stating, “Guess I gotta’ let it go, the situation wasn’t good for me,” we got a sense that Ms. Barrino is still in the process of recovering from the effects of failed relationships and disappointments.  And this could be no clearer than in her hit song, “Lose to Win” which she sang near the close of her performance. Fantasia’s success with her newly released fourth album, Side Effects of You, and her recent Pride appearance certainly indicates that she’s on the upswing in her career.  Her performance of “Lighthouse” revealed that she remains undaunted by her critics and is determined to continue recording and performing with a greater sense of purpose.   In a nutshell, she’s finally “winning” again. Dana L. Stringer  Dana Stringer is a freelance writer, playwright, poet and activist based in Southern California.  You may contact her at dana@danastringer.com or follow her on Facebook and Twitter: @danalstringer.

*Uh oh! Somebody’s not happy on the set of “Love & Hip Hop: New York.” According to TMZ, some cast members have refused to go to work. And as you may have guessed it’s all because of money. Sources say all cast members were supposed to be present Tuesday in NYC to film a trailer for the upcoming season, but only half of the cast showed up. The other half stayed home in protest because negotiations for their new contracts had gone sour. We’re told the half that did show up then got upset … believing they too were entitled to revised contracts … and stormed off. We’re told most of the cast members want more money — as much as double their last contract — but there are other problems too … some are pissed at how they were portrayed last season and they want more say in what footage gets aired. We’re told emergency meetings have since been called with the angry cast members … and they’re hoping to get what they want by the end of the week. If they don’t, cast members plan to stick to their guns and continue their strike for as long as necessary. So far, according to TMZ,  VH1 hasn’t commented on the situation.

Speeches delivered by President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama at the commencements for historically black colleges over the weekend, in which both emphasized personal responsibility and highlighted some self-inflicted problems of African-Americans, have sparked a debate among black commentators, with some criticizing the Obamas for “scolding” black Americans in a tone they do not adopt with other groups. In his speech at Morehouse, the president told the graduates “we’ve got no time for excuses” and said when he was young at times he had mistakenly “wrote off my own failings as just another example of the world trying to keep a black man down.” The first lady, at Bowie State University, said it was important to change the mindset of black children, who instead of ” dreaming of being a teacher or a lawyer or a business leader, they’re fantasizing about being a baller or a rapper.” The rhetoric was not unusual, the president in particular has long given such speeches to black audiences. But this time, it drew strong rebukes from some black voices, all of whom are strong supporters of the president in general, who say the First Family has now delivered this message enough. A backlash from black intellectuals “It is hard to avoid the conclusion that this White House has one way of addressing the social ills that afflict black people — and particularly black youth — and another way of addressing everyone else. I would have a hard time imagining the president telling the women of Barnard that ‘there’s no longer room for any excuses’ — as though they were in the business of making them. Barack Obama is, indeed, the president of ‘all America,’ but he also is singularly the scold of ‘black America,’” wrote Ta-Nehisi Coates of the Atlantic in a piece. In an interview with the Washington Post, Trevor Coleman, a former speechwriter for ex-governor Michigan Jennifer Granholm, said, “What made it so gratuitous was this was Morehouse College! In the African-American community, the very definition of a Morehouse man is someone who is a leader, who is taught to go out and make a difference in his community.” Jamelle Bouie, a writer at the American Prospect, wrote , “That too many black students live in poor neighborhoods, attend segregated schools, and don’t have much access to the outside world has nothing to do with their effort or their priorities. Michelle Obama is a native of Chicago. I have no doubt she knows this history. Ignoring it, and focusing on the daydreams of teenagers as the real problem, is a considered choice, and a bad one at that.” Others defended the Obamas’ tone. Jonathan Capehart, an MSNBC political commentator and Washington Post writer, cast it as another example of Obama’s black critics holding him to an impossibly high standard. Speech has defenders despite detractors “Obama spoke to the black men of Morehouse not as a distant president but as a familiar peer. He used his troubled past as a real-life example of how one’s limited circumstances are neither destiny nor a hindrance to achieving the American Dream, as they define it. He urged the graduates to not make excuses, to aim high and to give back,” Capehart wrote. Rep. John Lewis and other members of the Congressional Black Caucus also praised the speech. “I think that he said everything that needed to be said — he spoke to hearts and souls of those young brothers,” Lewis told Politics 365. “Anything that the president of the United States says it’s not going to be private. You can’t sweep the issues confronting black America under the rug or in some dark corner. They need to be out in the light for all of us to deal with it. For white and black — we’re all in the same boat.” The debate illustrated something of a generation gap, with the Obamas delivering  a milder version

From the sprawling horizon of Los Angeles, to the bustling beaches of Miami, many travelers plan to take full advantage of the long-anticipated three-day Memorial Day weekend. And this year, you won’t have to go too far or spend too much to make it a blissful and rewarding vacation when you make it a staycation. According to AAA, 34.8 million Americans are expected to travel during the Memorial Day holiday weekend with 31.2 million planning to drive 50 miles or more to get to their destination. But you may not have to go that far to have a great time. A staycation allows you to enjoy your local festivities as though you are a tourist, without the costs and hassles of travelling. From coast to coast and from sea to shining sea, we’ve complied your personal guide to some of the most fascinating and easily-accessible Memorial Day celebrations going on all around the country, with some destinations below likely within a stone’s throw of your home. These last-minute Memorial Day staycation options will have you spending more time enjoying your long weekend and less time on the road trying to get there. Start your summer off right! Get into a staycation state of mind to save money, enjoy historic patriotic celebrations, check out unique jazz and blues festivals, and take in star-studded musical concerts — just a short drive away. North (Mid-State) St. Louis, MO: Blues + BBQ = A blissful weekend - Perfect for Staycation travelers between Chicago and Memphis –  It’s Bluesweek in St. Louis and there’s nothing like the Bluesweek Festival, a series of free live concerts that will melt your blues away. Right in the heart of Soldiers Memorial, expect stunning performances by some of best blues artist around including the legendary Mavis Staples and St. Louis’s own resident diva Kim Massie. Did I mention it’s FREE? In a matter of time, all that good music may have you wondering who has “The Best Q in the Lou?” If so, then be sure to stick around the venue for the Bunge BBQ Battle Royale, where home cooks, restaurants, bars and renowned BBQ grill masters put their cooking skills to the taste. Chicago, IL – A ‘Chi-Town’-style extravaganza - Perfect for Staycation travelers between St. Louis and Memphis – Support the troops and be a part of one of the largest Memorial Day parades in the nation. From State Street to Van Buren Street, join the people of Chicago as they honor the men and women of the Armed Forces at the Chicago Memorial Day Parade. Once you’ve basked in all that festive glory, be sure to make your way to The Randolph Street Market Festival. From furnishings to vintage apparels, jewelry and classic collectibles, there’s nothing like this indoor/outdoor urban antique market hosted in the historic West Loop neighborhood. South Atlanta, GA: Jazz festival and fireworks unite - Perfect for Staycation travelers between New Orleans and Charlotte - If jazz music just warms your soul, you need to make your way to Atlanta this Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy an incredible lineup of electrifying artists performing at the Atlanta Jazz Festival. And it’s FREE! Previous artists included Miles Davis and Nina Simone. This year, the festival is sure to ‘wow’ jazz lovers of every generation with performances by the fearsome bassist and prolific songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello and the critically acclaimed Cuban pianist and award-winning composer Aruán Ortiz. After you have satiated your appetite for great music, don’t miss the a state-of-the-art laser light show that sparkles in the sky at the Salute to the Troops Lasershow Spectacular at Stone Mountain Park. It’s perfect for the entire family. Miami, FL: A Memorial Day concert that sizzles - Perfect for Staycation travelers between Key West and Charlotte -  If by chance you just love reggae music — and that’s love with a capital “L” — then the Best of the Best Concert is where you want to be this Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy a 10-hour long music extravaganza righ

Khyati Is Fine, Despite Miguel's Fall With an ice pack on her arm, the fan that Miguel accidentally leg-dropped at the Billboard Music Awards stood next to her favorite singer and assured the world she was okay following the crazy incident. Watch Khyati's reaction above.

Singer Maxwell is 40. *Just like the headline says, this page/board is where you can discuss the stuff that we didn’t cover in today’s issue. (It’s sort of like feedback with a twist) Remember, NO name calling, racial taunting, graphic sex talk and vulgarity in general, PLEASE. ——– EUR MOTIVATIONAL NOTE Everything will change. The only question is growing up or decaying. – Nikki Giovanni CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS  May 23: Actress-model Karen Duffy is 52. Singer Maxwell is 40. BLACK HISTORY May 23, 1871: L. Bell patents smoke stack. (Source: www.BlackFacts.com)

*PHILADELPHIA … At 48-years-old, Bernard Hopkins is the oldest fighter to win a world championship in the history of boxing, and on June 20 he will be recognized for that accomplishment and more when he accepts the 2013 John Wanamaker Athletic Award at the Wanamaker Building’s Crystal Tea Room. The award, which has bestowed since 1961, will be presented by the Philadelphia Sports Congress (PSC), a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), in conjunction with Amerimar/Behringer Harvard.  It recognizes the athlete, team or organization that has done the most to reflect credit upon Philadelphia and to the team or sport in which they excel. In 2011, Hopkins broke George Foreman’s record as the oldest fighter in history to win a title when he defeated Jean Pascal for the WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Championship at the age of 46. On March 9, 2013 Hopkins convincingly outpointed IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Tavoris Cloud in a 12-round unanimous decision, capturing the title in front of a crowd of over 12,000 fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. “I am extremely honored to be named the Wanamaker Athletic Award winner (Philadelphia Athlete of the Year). Breaking my own record as the oldest fighter to win a world title was a great accomplishment in my career and for my city to recognize that means a great deal,” said Hopkins. “Everyone knows that Philadelphia breeds great champions and I take so much pride in representing Philadelphia every time I step into the ring. Many thanks to the Philadelphia Sports Congress for this great honor.” Also being recognized is national non-profit Back on My Feet, who will receive the Robert P. Levy Community Service Award, presented to an individual or organization that has done the most to “improve the quality of life in Philadelphia through sports.” Started in Philadelphia in 2007 by Founder and CEO Anne Mahlum, Back on My Feet has promoted the self-sufficiency of America’s homeless by engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and self-esteem, often finding jobs and housing in the process. In addition, the City of Philadelphia’s Parks & Recreation Department will present its third annual Sports Volunteer of the Year Award to Yolanda Laney, an employee in the Office of the City Solicitor who has dedicated over 30 years of service to the youth of Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware, volunteering as a coach and mentor with various youth basketball programs. The award is presented annually to the “men and women in our community whose exemplary volunteer efforts have made a real difference in the lives of our City’s young people through sports.” “This year’s recipients are all great examples of the impact that individuals can have on others,” said David Montgomery, chairman, Philadelphia Sports Congress. “Bernard Hopkins is a true champion who has continued a wonderful legacy of Philadelphia boxing. In addition, Anne and Yolanda have dedicated their lives to making a significant difference for so many people. They embody the true spirit of giving back to the community. All recipients represent our City extremely well.” The Sports Congress, Amerimar/Behringer Harvard, CBS-3, and the Philadelphia Daily News present the Wanamaker Athletic Award ceremony and luncheon. The public participated in the nomination process via ballots in the Philadelphia Daily News and online during April. The Wanamaker Selection Committee, consisting of a cross-section of sports and media representatives, made the final decision. CBS3′s Chris May will emcee the event. The Philadelphia Sports Congress (PSC), a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.discoverPHL.com, seeks to attract major sporting events and conventions to the Philadelphia area. The Sports Congress, working in conjunction with the City of Philadelph

Guy Torry and Harmony Love Bailey *8 year old entertainment reporter, singer, dancer & actress Harmony Love Bailey Interviews comic/actor Guy Torry about his role on a new weekly TV show called “Dancing Fools” on The ABC Family Channel that starts May 29, 2013. But first she asked him who his favorite comics are & they crack a couple of jokes together. Harmony asked Guy why did the birdie go to the hospital and the answer was to get a tweetment! Check out Guy’s response and his joke for Harmony!