Dear E-Books

Both are good reads. Only one has a place in my backpack...

via The New York Times:

With a growing number of people turning to Kindles and other electronic readers, and with the Apple iPad arriving on Saturday, it is not always possible to see what others are reading or to project your own literary tastes. You can’t tell a book by its cover if it doesn’t have one.

“There’s something about having a beautiful book that looks intellectually weighty and yummy,” said Ms. Wiles, who recalled that when she was rereading “Anna Karenina” recently, she liked that people could see the cover on the subway. “You feel kind of proud to be reading it.” With a Kindle or Nook, she said, “people would never know.”

Okay, one of my taglines for Dear Whoever is that 'reading is fundamental'. I love to read. Whether it be newspapers, magazines, blogs, nutritional labels or what have you. In the past 2 years, though, reading has taken up residence in a new venue. You, e-books, are what the iPod did to CD's. You're slowly changing us from a society of page turners, to button pushers. While people still are reading, the modus in which we read is now swiftly changing. Because of you, there isn't a use for the delineation between paperbacks and hardcovers. It's the Kindle versus whatever other e-readers there are. Because of you, there won't be any such thing as a book weathering generations or being handed down through those said generations. We can just as easily point and click that same book to whomever we want, and save it on our hard drives. Because of you, the time-honored traditions of bookmarks, pages folded over, and writing little notes in the margins will wither. No longer will there be people like myself perusing book stores for hours looking at interesting covers to see which book they want. In fact, if you continue at this pace, I'd be surprised if there even are bookstores anymore in 20 years.

E-books, it's not that I'm against the whims of technology overtaking the physical presence of ideas laid out on paper. It's just that after one of you gets purchased, hundreds of books are essentially deemed obsolete. Maybe your use will cut down on deforestation and other side-effects of book production. Even so, is that worth trading in a technology that revolutionized religion, science, philosophy and pretty much every other facet of humanity? The printing press might very well be the most important invention of the past millenium (#shoutout to Johan Gutenberg; bet he's rolling in his grave). It took Europe about 200 years to fully embrace it. It took you about 6 months to seriously catch on. Is that indicative of the change in society or just technology at work?? Whatever the case, e-books, I probably won't be buying any of you any time soon. Though I gladly rock MP3s and DVDs, I think I'll wear my papercuts with pride as I lug a backpack full of books around. You might be convenient, but convenience shouldn't always override principle, especially when you have to pay $260 plus each book to enjoy it...

Pete Rock vs. DJ Premier

I literally jumped for joy when I saw this. It was like waking up on Christmas to see a life-size GI Joe under the tree, and then seeing it shoot its way out of the box. For you hip-hop heads, it should be the same reaction. Manhattan Records, a Japanese record store, is celebrating its 30th anniversary by having a battle of epic proportions. Pete Rock and DJ Premier will be having a once-in-a-lifetime battle to help the Tokyo-based vinyl spot throw down, and for the upteenth time, I'm truly saddened that I have no connects in Japan to crash with. Both Pete Rock and DJ Premier are legends in their own right, with some of the illest production and DJing in hip-hop history. I can't stress how ridiculous an event like this is. Please believe I will be taking donations to somehow get to Tokyo for the May 2nd show. Check the promo video out, and get excited!!

PS: On a somewhat related note, why is there never a production of this scale going down on this side of the pond? Someone get on that, ASAP!!!

Faces in the Crowd - Nile Overton

NOTE: Here's a new feature on Dear Whoever. I've been seeing a lot of negativity in the blogosphere as of late, and I'm tired of it. Faces in the Crowd is a section dealing with the young people making big moves out here. Check it out...

I was blessed this past term to meet a young man by the name of Nile Overton. Along with being a three-sport athlete, the Philadelphia high school resident is a rising poet and. That's not the reason behind the post, though. In July, Nile will be taking a trip to Australia for a Student Ambassador program, where he'll be doing a homestay, exploring the Great Barrier Reef and examining the historical areas inhabited by the Maori people. To some, this may seem trite, but especially after the negative imagery of Philadelphia teenagers in violent flash mobs over the past few weeks, it's refreshing to see a young man expanding his horizons on such a grand scale. Nile was even featured in the Philadelphia Tribune (the picture is too big to post, so check the article here). I'm honestly excited to hear what's next on this young man's agenda, because it's so easy to get the negative news about young people. Also, if you do happen to be in Philadelphia this week, make sure you check Nile out performing some of his poetry at Drexel University on Thursday. Need more info??? Click the GMail icon to the right, and I can direct you. Last, but not least if you want to contact Nile directly with good wishes or just to see what the young man is about, hit his Facebook here. Hope this was a breath of fresh air, and I wish the best to Nile for the trip...

PS: I got the info for Nile's performance. It's at the Creese Center at Drexel University on Chestnut St (btw 32nd & 33rd Street), and starts at 8:30 PM. Keep it locked to Dear Whoever!!

2010 Hennessey Venom GT

#shoutout to Autoblog for the flicktures...





American sports cars, with the exception of the Mustang and Camaro, have been virtually non-existent in the past decade. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that I'd rather walk than drive an American sports car. Now however, the bar has officially been raised for domestic whips, with auto detailer and customizer Hennessey Performance Engineering manufacturing the Hennessey Venom GT. This thing is being rumored to dole out 1000 horsepower and 900 lb-ft of torque through an American twin-turbocharged engine under a British chassis. To automotive purists, it might be a mutt of a car, but to speed freaks, it's a wet dream on pavement. In addition to the ridiculous engine, the Venom GT holds a $600,000 price tag. And with only 10 in production per year, you'd better start looking for four-leaf clovers if you want to cop one. Check the video of one of the most powerful production cars during its construction...

Charles Hamilton x B.o.B. - Paperboy

Charles Hamilton & B.O.B. - Paperboy

Chuck seems to be getting back in a groove, especially after putting out his 'last' mixtape, that was generally received with yawns. He and B.O.B. have been recording in Atlanta for the past week or so, and this is what they came up. I have to say that the beat is fire, first of all. Second of all, both Sonic and Bobby Ray seem to mirror each other well on wax, with their sounds meshing really well. I suppose it doesn't hurt that both of them are considered two of the more eccentric MC's from last year's Freshman 10. Hell, sometimes they even sound alike. Whatever the case, I'm hoping the two decide on the pairing being more than a one-track stand. Then again, we never know what to expect with these two guys. Check out their ode to rolling implements, money and non-sequitur laced rhymes...

Neighborhood Newsletter (3/29)

Make sure you know where you stand, people...

Has the middle finger lost its mojo?

Video Surveillance deployed inside London Public Bathrooms

Can Science Explain the Concept of Heaven?

Harvard Professor Creates Inhalable Coffee, No Cup Required

Why We Dream About Sex with Inappropriate People

NPD: 51% of Buyers Would Rather Have Netbook over iPad

Health overhaul likely to strain existing doctor shortage

Jersey Residents 'Red in the Face' Over Tanning Tax

Scarface x 3rd Grade

In the back of your head, you can't help but think there's something seriously wrong with the events transpiring in the above video. Yet at the same time, there's something really, really clever about this 3rd grade production of Scarface. The cocaine is replaced with popcorn, the 'fucks' with 'fudges' and the real guns with NERF guns. I feel like a play of this sort is an interpolation of every Disney movie, Nickelodeon or Cartoon Network show, or cartoon character that had double meaning for the adults watching. Where the jokes would go over the kid's head, the adult would be laughing hysterical at a dirty quip. I suppose if the parents are cool with their kids re-enacting a violent, drugged-out cult classic, then so am I. Not to mention, the acting is pretty good for an elementary school play. The makeup, moustaches and Miami Vice-esque suits seal the deal for this production. Hopefully Shottas or Belly is up next, and I can see my favorite quotables being skewed for virgin ears...

Skewby - I'm ILL

I posted up a review of Skewby's 'Proving You Wrong Since 1988' a few weeks back, and am still bumping the tape today. I dig dude's music so much because it's earthy and organic without being preachy and sounding like I should have a chew stick in my mouth while listening. The Memphis native takes on the instrumental for 'I'm ILL', and doesn't disappoint. He pokes fun at 95% of hip-hop in the video the track, and the community's infatuation with swagg (cringe), stupid dances and a lack of lyricism. The video honestly makes the song pop that much more to me. Skewby seems to be on a roll as of late, and I can't wait to see what else 2010 has in store for him...

10 Deep x adidas Originals Consortium Stan Smith

I haven't remotely liked anything from 10 Deep in the past 2 years. From weird colorways to wacky designs, the New York brand has lost a little bit of steam lately. That doesn't mean they're immune to a dope collab every once in a while. adidas Originals and 10 Deep clashed together for a new take on the classic Stan Smith sneaker, throwing together a grey nubuck upper, a perforated logo on the side, and the oh-so-sexy gum soles. Of course they both got their licks in with logos from both brands left and right. I love how simple, yet refined the shoe is. Definitely a sneaker to break out when the weather gets gorgeous...

Fashawn - Life's a Bitch (ft. Talib Kweli)

Fashawn - Life's a Bitch (ft. Talib Kweli)

Illmatic is among my favorite albums for a host of reasons, the first being that after listening to it, I can never be upset at whatever was grieving me before I hit play. That being so high on my list, I've been waiting for a new rapper to embrace Nas' masterpiece and interpolate it into his own repertoire. It took 16 years, and the commercialization and digitizing of hip-hop for it to happen, but someone finally jumped on the bandwagon. That said, I slept on Fashawn up until this very moment. Was always aware that he could rap, but for whatever reason, didn't give the man the time of day. Now that he's working on a new mixtape entitled 'Ode to Illmatic,' I am literally all ears. Check out the 2010 XXL Freshman (though he's been out for years) talking about his new project and the re-interpolation of one of my favorite songs...

Neighborhood Newsletter (3/27)

Poacher Attacked by Rhinos, Devoured by Lions

Movie Tickets increase up to 26% this weekend, mostly for 3D

Earth Hour 2010: Record 121 Countries to Turn off Lights for an Hour

30% of breast cancer 'is caused by obesity

Fake 'Jail' At Kid's Playground Angers Parents

8 Fast Food Items That Will Ensure You Die Of A Heart Attack

NFL personnel men concerned by marijuana 'epidemic' in draft class

Facebook To Release Like Button For the Whole Darn Internet

Dear George 'the germaphobe' Bush

Wow, George. Just... WOW. Just when I thought we'd seen the last of your idiotic trademark social faux pas', you give all of the racist germaphobes something to cheer for. Now that you've finally gotten the f*ck out of the Oval Office ended your tenure as President, I suppose it was a good look to do a bit of political maneuvering under the guise of goodwill and charity. No harm in that, whatsoever. You accompanied everyone's other favorite black President, Bill Clinton, to Haiti for some photo ops and to make sure you weren't the only politician (yes, you are and will always be a politician) who didn't show your face in the earthquake-rattled country. That said, it was a valiant effort, until the little bigoted devil on your shoulder reared its ugly head. Part of being a politician is shaking hands. In fact, I'd say most politicians have shaken more hands than they've read books or written speeches. So the practice naturally would be extended, no matter what country you're in. George, in the act of shaking hands, there are a few things you shouldn't do:

1) Cough or sneeze before you extend your hand.
2) Refuse to shake a hand.
3) Make any remark or action in disgust or aberration of the handshake.

That's a pretty simple list, George. As a matter of fact, you should probably know these already, considering that you were the President. I mean, for God's sake, how do you ascend to that office without knowing handshake etiquette? That seems like a given. And in all honesty, doing it in Haiti was just a bad move. If it isn't some wacko reverend claiming that they're evil, it's rampant poverty or an earthquake plaguing the people of Haiti. The least you can do is shake their hands without looking like you just ingested a bile and dirt sandwich. They've been through a hell of a lot more than you, and probably should be the ones wiping their hands. They sure as hell don't have as much blood on their hands as you do, Georgie boy...

Add-2 - The Crown

Add-2 - The Crown

Been bombarding you guys with music lately, simply because I think most artists are done with their winter vacations and are trying to build up buzz for the summer. Add-2 is a new face on Dear Whoever, and he definitely won't be seeing his last time on the blog. The Chicago native reminds me of Lupe with a rapid-fire flow and a much more poisonous tongue. By poisonous, I mean he won't hesitate to curse, talk about what he's really really thinking and is a lot more palatable. That's no knock on Lupe, nor is that calling Add-2 the shit; it's simply a comparison. I hope his new offering 'Better Days' puts the guy on the hip-hop radar. He definitely has the talent...

Freestyle Friday (3/26)

Hey hey hey (Fat Albert voice), it's Freestyle Friday!!! Let's just cut to the chase, since I'm on my work computer and am not trying to get fired within my first week. We've got freestyles on deck today and both are virtual newcomers. The first one is from AC, who's hailing from Staten Island (I gave it the -___- at first too). He honestly has bars and does a good job of riding an interpolation of 'However Do You Want Me'. AC's also preparing to drop his mixtape 'Send the Scouts Out' soon. Hopefully, he's not a one-video wonder on the blogosphere (funny you can say that now). The second video is by GLC. Yeah, he's not a newbie to the game, but this is one of the first cuts I've heard from him going dolo in a freestyle. He sounds like he has a unique perspective on the game, being quite the street-dweller while hob-knobbing with the likes of Kanye and CuDi. GOOD Music might actually have a roster in the cut, much to my surprise. Regardless, check out the freestyles and keep it locked to Dear Whoever...

Dear Philadelphia Youth

Have you guys lost your mind?? I mean really. Did you guys leave your brains somewhere and not remember to find them? It's a sad day when you can't even go out for an evening on the town without being harassed or scared by a group of teenagers. It's an even sadder day when that same group of teenagers grows into a multitude, and instead of simply being, begins looting stores and getting violent, calling themselves a 'flash mob'. Young people of Killadelphia, Pistolvania, let me school you on what a flash mob really is. Check it out:



THAT is a flash mob. In fact, let me define it for you, just so there's no mistake. A flash mob is "is a large group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and pointless act for a brief time, then quickly disperse." (Wikipedia)

Now, what of what you guys have been doing in the past few weeks is remotely reminiscent of an unusual or pointless act, in which you dispersed quickly? That's right. NOTHING. In essence, you who gathered on South Street were gallivanting around for hours, until you realized you had nothing to do. Then, upon realizing the sheer multitude of you, decided to levy those numbers in a destructive manner, looting stores, causing bedlam and even assaulting a pizza delivery guy or two. Nothing of that is fun, innocent or even cool. Leave it to inner-city youth to turn something novel and funny to passers-by into a special on the 6 o'clock news. Maybe it's the lack of things to do in Philadelphia, or maybe it's the mentality of you young people in the city. Whatever the cause, there's no reason UPenn & Drexel kids should be shook to go to McDonalds, because some Philly kids don't have anywhere to go after school or on weekends. Join a basketball team, go volunteer, go fly a kite, or hell, READ A DAMN BOOK!! If you want to do flash mobs, do one where everyone quotes their favorite philosophers, or does the hokey pokey, or wears a wacky outfit. Do something. ANYTHING!! Just stop giving yourselves reasons to be vilified, when you could really be enriching yourselves. Lord knows there's never any stories about that on the 6 o'clock news...

Did this pizza guy really have to get the business end of a group of misguided teenagers? Get it together, kids...

KiD CuDi - Soundtrack 2 My Life

I won't lie... I wasn't always a fan of Scott Mescudi. If you were down with Dear Whoever in the early days, you'll remember I thought he was limited as an artist and a little bit of a herb. Lo and behold, the man is headlining my blog. A video like 'Soundtrack 2 My Life' certainly isn't the most original, but it shows the side of CuDi that makes him so cool. He doesn't care. The man takes the stage with reckless abandon and a five year-old's twinkle in his eye. He's carefree and a bit eccentric, if I do say so myself. I suppose that's why CuDi is the man though. He's so idiosyncratic and unorthodox in everything that you can't help but see his charisma. For God's sake, the guy threw on an astronaut suit and was humping a microphone stand during the concert. Check out the lighter side of KiD CuDi, and hopefully you'll get some laughs out of the visuals, too...

Neighborhood Newsletter (3/24)

Double standards are unfair, but sometimes true...

GOP Senators Refusing To Work Past 2PM, Invoking Obscure Rule

Poll: 1/4 Of Republicans Believe Obama May Be The Antichrist

Discovery: First Scientifically Confirmed Poisonous Bird

Love, sex and the male brain

Man With Rare Blood Antibody Saves Over 2 Million Babies

Why so many colleges are teaching courses on 'The Wire'

Marijuana Legalization Officially Qualifies for CA Ballot

Tebow's pre-Wonderlic prayer request falls flat; Reporter tells him to 'shut the f*ck up'

The World's Smallest Laser

adidas Originals - “Hide and Seek” Stan Smith 80

It's been a long, long, long time since I've thoroughly enjoyed a convertible sneaker. In fact, the last hot one was probably the Jordan XVI, and I wouldn't even wear those off the basketball court. Regardless, adidas decided to bring back the shrouded sneaker with their 'Hide & Seek' Stan Smith 80's. The kicks feature a black upper high top, with that zips off to reveal blue low tops. These might be a good look for the spring time, when sudden showers plot to throw dirt on a freshly Un-DSed pair. Or maybe you just want to be like Skeeter on 'Doug' with the cutting-edge convertible kicks. Whatever the case, take a closer look at the new Stan Smiths...

HTC EVO 4G for Sprint

Big #shoutout to Engadget for the video and flicks...

I am the ultimate Sprint representer. Been with them since I've had a cell phone, and will probably die a Sprint user. The one knock on them up until recently was their less-than-shitty phone selection. Where other carriers had the newest devices first, Sprint usually had to wait, or get saddled with a worse version of them. Now, that's not the case, with Sprint being the first US carrier to roll out with 4G service, and a 4G phone. The HTC EVO 4G is being billed as a legitimate iPhone killer, having the ability to talk and access data simultaneously, like the iPhone. In case you're wondering what 4G means, just think of it as being on a computer's internet, on a really really fast phone. That means you can stream HD videos, as well as access wireless hotspots. The phone itself has an 8-megapixel camera, a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera, and an HDMI port (in case you want to play XBOX 360 on it, for God's sake). Honestly, this might very well be the most advanced phone to hit our shores. Unfortunately, this bad boy doesn't drop until the summer, so that gives you iPhone stans a chance to switch to Sprint...

Kidz in the Hall - Fresh Academy (ft. Chip tha Ripper & DONNIS)

I'm just gonna come out right and say it: I have the biggest love-hate relationship with Kidz in the Hall. Sometimes their songs are catchy, sound good, have good verses and features that make sense. Other times, they get too experimental and have weak-ass bars. In this case, I see the former. The Kidz teamed up with DONNIS and Chip Tha Ripper for the track 'Fresh Academy' off their new album 'Land of Make Believe', and decided to keep it in the telly for the video. I can't say that the concept is anything remotely original or innovative, but it worked out pretty well. One thing I have to contest is Double-O's hair in the video. Nothing says hip-hop like a Farrah Fawcett do in a rap video. Follicular foibles aside, the video does the song justice...

Nike Air Max 180 'Lemon'

Now that Gucci's made the lemon aesthetic into the epitome of a fad in hip-hop, I suppose it's only right for there to be a sneaker for that very tenet. Nike's Air Max 180's slowly become one of my favorite silhouettes, because of how simple and clean it is. It also has a very casual feel to it, without looking like your typical Nike sneaker of late. Not a lot of bells and whistles here. I like where 2010 is going so far. Hopefully, Nike keeps with a demure profile like this. Check out some alternate flicktures...

Dear Roger Goodell

Nothing worse than a commissioner with double standards...

Roger, let's tell a story called 'A Tale of Two Quarterbacks'. As you may have guessed, the story is about two quarterbacks. No names will be used for the story. Here goes:

Once upon a time, there was a quarterback. He was the highest paid QB in the league, had a $100 million contract with his team, and was widely considered the most electrifying player in the league. Then one day, that all came to an end. The quarterback's friends royally f*cked up and made the QB a national headline because of a dog-fighting ring. Before he could even go to trial, or even be convicted of a crime, the quarterback was nationally berated by animal rights groups, bored stay-at-home mothers and even his own team's fans. The quarterback ended up losing the $100 million contract, all of his endorsements and then getting put in jail, on top of being suspended by the big, bad NFL commissioner.

Three years later, there lived another quarterback. He was another very popular QB in the league, having won two Super Bowls. The QB wasn't the sharpest tack in the box, and had some off the field problems with drinking, as well as almost killing himself by riding a motorcycle with no helmet or motorcycle license. Later on, the quarterback would be implicated in a sexual assault against a 20-year-old college student in Georgia (what he was doing in GA, I have no clue). That same big, bad commissioner would go on to say that he would like to 'sit down and talk' to the QB, not ruin his life like he did the first QB. In fact, the commissioner has yet to take any action against the quarterback. THE END.

Now, Roger, I hope the characters in the story sounded a bit familiar to you. Why is that, you ask? Because the big, bad commissioner is you, and the two quarterbacks are Michael Vick and Ben Roethlisberger. Roger, your failure to administer more than a pre-emptive warning (that's what it is at this point) to Roethlisberger is detestable. You took away the career of Michael Vick (yeah, he's back, but we don't know how long that'll last) over some dogs that he probably had no hand in killing, BEFORE he even was tried or convicted. You suspended him when there were simply allegations, but when Ben Roethlisberger allegedly rapes a chick, he gets a slap on the wrist. Since when is the life of a dog more important than the livelihood of a human, Roger? As a matter of fact, since when has preemptive suspension been a protocol of the NFL?? It doesn't make sense, nor is it remotely fair. No, I won't go as far as to say that the disciplinary actions of the NFL are 'racist,' but you have to admit, Pac-Man Jones got a pretty raw deal too. It seems like you had the bias of all biases while dealing with Big Ben, and I for one see right through it. It's not enough to uphold double standards, and call yourself a fair commissioner. Seriously, Roger, you can't have your stars and eat them too. No player should be above the law, and you shouldn't need a fairy tale to show you that...

What kind of role model is this???

Asher Roth – Seared Fois Gras w/ Quince & Cranberry

Asher Roth – Seared Fois Gras w/ Quince & Cranberry

I was a bit dismayed at the lack of Asher Roth music in the first quarter of 2010. Apparently, Ash was listening in on my dreams and hip-hop conversations, because he put out a track the day after I talked to my boy AKZionz about him. Today he made another dream of mine come true by dropping 'Seared Fois Gras w/ Quince & Cranberry'. Upon looking at the title, it was easy to dismiss the PA native's newest offering. Yet, being an MF DOOM fan, food-titled albums and mixtapes have a special place in my heart. Ash doesn't disappoint in SFGWQ&C (writing that title again sucks), using some really, really, really DOPE (when I say dope, I mean DOPE x infinity) beats and using his trademark free-fire flow. Lyrically, he's back on his grizzy. I don't know what he was smoking, but he has me fighting off the hip-hop munchies while listening. He drops metaphor after metaphor after metaphor, and I still can't get enough. Don't waste your time thinking he's going to be talking about College and Blunt Cruisin, because this really a train of consciousness from Ash Roth. Check out the download, tracklist/back cover, #dopetracks, loosies & videos...



#dopetracks:
Ash and Dem
Con-fid-ence
I'm Eddy
Rik Smits
F*ck Your Ringtone, Dog
Toni Braxton

Loosies:
Outasight – Catch Me If You Can (Remix) f. Asher Roth
Asher Roth – Hot Wangs

Outasight - Catch Me if You Can (Music Video)

Catch Me If You Can

Outasight | MySpace Music Videos

Outasight's 'Further EP' made my Most Underrated Mixtapes list from 2009, and for good reason. The work is pure PIFF in the strictest musical sense. Along with re-releasing the EP on iTunes today, he also let the visuals for the track 'Catch Me if You Can' loose today. While it was a little late, the video is well worth the wait. Yeah, Outasight seemed a bit outashape when he was running away from whoever, but the cinematography in the video does the trick for the track just right. Of course he has a guest appearance by Notherground producer-extraordinaire 6th Sense, too. Honestly, this video made me start bumping 'Further' again tonight. Check out the video...

Health Care Reform Protests = A Circus

HUGE #shoutout to AverageBro for the video. In Washington D.C., while the House of Representatives was voting on the landmark Health Care Reform bill, these red-blooded Americans were exercising their First Amendment right. Now, if you're a conservative, I would watch this with a grain of salt. If you're liberal, you should watch this with popcorn, because it is pure comedy. I can't even begin to describe the unadulterated idiocy and small-mindedness portrayed in this video. Just watch for yourself and take a good look at the fools concerned voters who supported the backwards-thinking responsible legislators that opposed the Health Care Reform...

Neighborhood Newsletter (3/22)

I found this hilarious for some reason...

Principal Bans Hugs in Oregon Middle School

How A $500 Craigslist car beat $400K rally racers

Why Money CAN Buy You Happiness

Top 10 Things Bosses Love To Hear

Why The '@' Symbol is Held in Such High Design Esteem

Dad of Heisman Trophy Winner Jumped Bail to Watch Son

Great Recession hurts birth control efforts

Schindler's List goes on sale for £1.5 million

How Dinosaurs Ruled the World

U.S. Secret Service Paid TJX Hacker $75,000 in Cash a Year

Infinite USB Plugs?

Why is it that the Japanese are always on the cutting edge of innovation, yet some of the designs they brew up are so simplistic that you wonder why you hadn't thought of it first? I suppose this is one of those ideas. The good people at Yanko Design dropped another bomb on the head of needless technology, by making the typical USB cord into a pluggable chain of USB cords. It's so simple, I feel stupid. The only thing is that after 4 or 5 plugs, the idea gets a bit cumbersome. I suppose that's why most computers have more than one USB input in the first place. The color coding is a good look too. I hope this gets to the production line soon...

Marky - Rasta Monsta

Marky - Rasta Monsta

If you watch 'How to Make it in America,' the beat behind this track shouldn't be new to you. In fact, the only reason I hit the download button was because it came with a new episode. Regardless, I'm happy I did, because Marky did the instrumental and chorus a lot more justice than thought would come to fruition. Marky does a hell of a job talking about his struggle and the problems that come with being a starving artist. The track is his second leak off a three part EP series, the first being 'Journey to Markyland, USA: Rest Stop 1'. I'm hyped to hear what else the Washington, D.C. native has to offer, and hopefully you are too. Check the the d/l...

Reflection Eternal - Strangers (ft. Bun B)

Train of Thought by Reflection Eternal is one of my favorite albums because it brings together a duo of two of the most underrated MCs and producers in hip-hop. Fans have been teeming at the brim for another taste of the Cleveland-Brooklyn sound, especially on news of them releasing 'Revolutions Per Minute' later in April. For the track Strangers, along with bringing Bun B along for the ride, Reflection Eternal chose to stay organic with the visual. Brooklyn is the backdrop, or so I believe. There is an assload of metaphors in both the track and the video, so be prepared to hit rewind a few times if you're slow on the uptake...

Dear Congress

The biggest piece of legislation since my generation was born...

via The New York Times:

House Democrats approved a far-reaching overhaul of the nation’s health system on Sunday, voting over unanimous Republican opposition to provide medical coverage to tens of millions of uninsured Americans after an epic political battle that could define the differences between the parties for years.

With the 219-to-212 vote, the House gave final approval to legislation passed by the Senate on Christmas Eve. Thirty-four Democrats joined Republicans in voting against the bill. The vote sent the measure to President Obama, whose yearlong push for the legislation has been the centerpiece of his agenda and a test of his political power. After approving the bill, the House adopted a package of changes to it by a vote of 220 to 211. That package — agreed to in negotiations among House and Senate Democrats and the White House — now goes to the Senate for action as soon as this week. It would be the final step in a bitter legislative fight that has highlighted the nation’s deep partisan and ideological divisions. On a sun-splashed day outside the Capitol, protesters, urged on by House Republicans, chanted “Kill the bill” and waved yellow flags declaring “Don’t Tread on Me.” They carried signs saying “Doctors, Not Dictators.”

Inside, Democrats hailed the votes as a historic advance in social justice, comparable to the establishment of Medicare and Social Security. They said the bill would also put pressure on rising health care costs and rein in federal budget deficits.

“This is the Civil Rights Act of the 21st century,” said Representative James E. Clyburn of South Carolina, the No. 3 Democrat in the House.

Kudos Congress, kudos. Though there was arm-pulling, hair-pulling and numerous shots fired (all metaphorical), a bill that will change the social course of the United States is officially a GO. By a vote of 219 to 212, you in the House and Senate finally passed the Health Care Reform that President Obama promised in his epic 2008 election. That said, I have one question: WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG?? Congress, (or the House, more specifically) ALL of you have above satisfactory health care. In fact, none of you will ever need to go through the bureaucracy, heartache and bullshit that 32 million Americans faced up until this bill's passing. Why was it so hard to make that move for the people who put you in office. Whether it was the insurance companies in your pockets, or the incredulous screams of 'death panels', nothing should have kept America from making good on the 'life' part of it's promise of 'life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness'. Every piece of reasoning that you guys pushed in front of the bill dwindled when compared to the savings and overall good that the bill would ultimately do, and you know it.

Yes, the bill will take some time to balance out the budget that you guys unbalanced through numerous military expenditures and interest rate hikes. However, since when has your job as Congress been to protect the interest of the military or private insurance companies? Congress, your job is to represent the people; the same people that voted you in (many of whom are still in the dark about the benefits of the bill). Your job isn't to stand in the way of progress simply because you believe health care reform is detrimental to the interests of the few. Am I a political pundit? No. Am I a concerned voter who believes that everyone should be entitled to satisfactory health care? Hell to the yes.

This isn't a letter condemning your sloth in passing the bill as much as it is a regale of a 2-year long struggle. I will never understand how some of you voted against the bill, but to those of you that helped pass this landmark legislation, I give the utmost respect. It takes cojones to uproot a system so closely guarded by bureaucracy and special interest. Hopefully the ideal of bipartisan support doesn't halt any other reform, yet I can't help but think the 212 of you who voted against it are foaming at the mouth to shoot down another Obama bill. Don't let your own personal idiosyncrasies affect what's best for the people, or you might not even be around for the next big vote...

The Census: Nuyorican Mural = Ghetto???

My homie Sherine sent this to me in a Facebook message, and I had to take notice. If you happened to be in Times Square recently, you may have seen a mural emblazoned on the side of some awning-laced building. The mural depicts numerous Black and Hispanic women in various stages of undress, adorned with long nails and the Nuyorican style so prevalent in the Bronx (my hometown), and the rest of New York City. As beautiful as the work is, it's drawing stark criticism for it's portrayal of women as 'ghetto'...

Now, I, for one, take my etymology very seriously. By that virtue, I felt it necessary to look up and properly define the word 'ghetto'.

via Dictionary.com: ghetto - a section of a city, esp. a thickly populated slum area, inhabited predominantly by members of an ethnic or other minority group

That's a noun... A noun that's been transformed into an adjective describing anything negative or degenerate originating from the area defined above. That said, is the mural 'ghetto'? In fact, is the mural portraying something negative? Honestly, I'd say no. The Nuyorican culture in NYC is one that's oft referenced in hip-hop and poetry. While the portrayal may seem crude and sexist to an outsider (which most of the people in Times Square seeing the mural are), to the average New Yorker, the mural is synonymous with an aspect of New York culture. The person saying that the women should be carrying 'briefcases' seems to have a ridiculously limited scope of what constitutes a 'positive' portrayal of women. The placement may be misguided, but the art itself is beautiful. That's neither here nor there, though. Readers, what do you think about the mural?? Is it 'ghetto' or are the critics ignoring the rich Nuyorican culture and history? PLEASE, chime in in the comments section below, and let me know what you think. This is the new and improved Census...

Hall of Fame x Mitchell & Ness 'Upside Downs'

The good people over at Hall of Fame are fitted connoisseurs, to say the least. They've upped the ante with this offering, a collab with Mitchell & Ness. This time around, they've flipped the logos on some of the most popular Hardwood Classics and did some underbrim embroidery for those who like their swag (cringes) concealed. Check out some of the pieces from the 'Upside Downs' collection...

Neighborhood Newsletter (3/19)

Don't think Bugs would've messed with Elmer as much, if he looked like this...

Wachovia Admits It Laundered Millions in Mexican Drug Cash

Kuwaiti study: Conventional oil to peak in 2014

Researchers Successfully Create 3-D Invisibility Cloak

Man appears free of HIV after stem cell transplant

12 ways to get organized this spring

The 10 Biggest Misconceptions We Learn in School

How Grenades Work [Infographic]

Technology Addicts Offered Treatment at London Hospital

Freestyle Friday (3/19)

Hey people!! It's a beautiful Friday afternoon (most of you probably aren't even gonna see this, but whatever) and that means we have freestyles for your listening pleasure. Last week I didn't post up any, simply because there were really wack ciphers going around. That's not the case. This week we have a written freestyle by Fashawn, who's quickly becoming a favorite of mine, after I kind of slept on him. He's talking about his personal problems and a bunch of other subject matter (rather than his SWAG, like 95% of hip-hop), so you know it's a good listen. The second one is from an oldie, but goodie. Nickelus F visited the homie Tony Touch and blessed his Toca Tuesday radio show with a freestyle in preparation for his new mixtape, 'Season Premier'. The last video isn't even a freestyle, but a recording of Big Daddy Kane explaining the etymology of the word 'freestyle'. A lot of heads (including myself) were using the term too freely, so he had to set the record straight. Enjoy your Friday, people, and keep it locked to Dear Whoever!!!!

Dear MLB

via MLB.com:

One day after admitting that he used and tested positive for cocaine one time last summer, Rangers manager Ron Washington found himself answering questions on Thursday about his use of marijuana and amphetamines during his playing career. The extra attention was Washington's doing. During numerous one-on-one interviews Wednesday, Washington admitted to various news outlets that he did indeed use both drugs on occasion as a player.

"When you're young, you make mistakes," Washington said. "I wish I could take back the mistakes I did, but I can't. You make mistakes.

"But the mistakes you make when I was young have nothing to do with what I'm facing today."

Washington admitted Wednesday that he used cocaine once last summer at some point before the All-Star break. Immediately thereafter, he was told that he was up for a random drug test. At that point, Washington told Major League Baseball, club president Nolan Ryan and general manager Jon Daniels what he had done and that he would likely test positive for cocaine. Washington went public with his apology on Wednesday, and in subsequent interviews admitted to using marijuana and amphetamines during his playing career. Washington signed with the Kansas City Royals out of high school in 1970 and had a 20-year professional playing career with seven different organizations that included all or parts of 10 seasons in the Majors.

What a better way to start out the MLB season than another drug scandal. MLB, for the last 10 years, you've been my least favorite sport. From a ridiculous lack of parity, to a yearly borefest of 162 games that don't matter until August, to an even more boring playoffs, Major League Baseball has been in decline. But the number one knock against you is probably the biggest story and bullshit scheme in all of sports: the performance enhancing and illegal drug scandals of the past 20+ years. This week, Ron Washington, the manager of the Texas Rangers tested positive for cocaine last July, and admitted to using cocaine, marijuana and amphetamines during his career. He is not getting punished at all (or so far) by you, the league, or by his franchise. Nor was his All-Star outfielder, Josh Hamilton who came out as a crack and cocaine addict some years ago. Now, MLB, these are two isolated incidents, but indicative of a much wider problem in your sport.

Look at the professional leagues in the other 3 major sports: NBA, NFL, NHL. All three of these leagues have a no-tolerance policy for drug use, while you guys have coke fiends running around your bases. While the other leagues have no-tolerance and immediate suspension or banning for illegal substances and performance-enhancing drugs, you guys have apologetic press conferences and paid 90-game suspensions. Where you guys have the most tainted history of cheating, deception and lying up to a FEDERAL level, the other leagues are relatively blemish-free. Now, that's not to say that the other professional sports leagues are spick-and-span with no problems, but most of the issues from the NFL, NBA and NHL are issues of character moreso than hardcore drug use. I know I'd much rather have a slightly deranged Ron Artest talking to my child fans than a coked up Ron Washington doing the same...

MLB, you've been called America's Pastime for as long as I can remember. Since when does America's Pastime sniff coke though?? Or better yet, since when does America's Pastime sniff coke and get away with it?? That doesn't happen in any other league. For example, Chris 'The Birdman' Andersen was suspended indefinitely from the NBA for 2 years for his drug use. While he is now clean and is back in the league, it serves to say that the response was appropriate. Illicit drug use is something, that if taken seriously, should be treated seriously. MLB, it doesn't suffice to come out with press releases and put asterisks next to records if the behavior still persists. You guys might as well be the Major League Burnouts with all of the needles, snorting, snuffing and huffing that's been recorded in the last 20 years. Lord knows Darryl Strawberry will never be the same, and neither should the legacy of a league that's riddled with drug addicts...

Pac Div - Shut Up

Twas kind of a surprise to see this one pop up on the blogosphere, considering Church League Champions came out a good minute ago. Even so, the video for 'Shut Up' is piff. Chuck and Mikey from the Cool Kids showed up for some quality time with the boys formerly known as Pacific Division, and although I'm still not sure what the video was about, it matched the song pretty well. It's dark and conducive to high levels of bass. Still wondering who produced the track, though. Whatever the case, check out the visuals...

Nike Air Max 90 'Infrared'

Just when I thought there were only going to be Jordans and nothing else released this summer for the sneakerhead clientele, saw these bad boys floating around the interwebs. What's probably the most famous colorway of the Air Max 90s is going to be re-retroed again. They should be dropping on July 20th (right around the corner for my birthday, if anyone cares to add to my fund/collection) at most Nike retailers, including Foot Locker. Props to Sneakernews for the info. Keep your eyes peeled for more drops and news...

Drake - Fall For Your Type

Drake - Fall For Your Type

Scooped this up through the beautiful HERfection and thought, 'What the hell? Might as well give it a spin...' What I didn't think was that it was going to be one of the smoothest, most sultry tracks I've heard in a minute, or that it was going to resonate so hard with my inner hopeless romantic. We all know Drake isn't the best vocalist, but whatever machine they threw together for this song did the trick. Whatever the case, check out what's (hopefully?) another track from Thank Me Later...

Neighborhood Newsletter (3/17)

Condoms can be acquired for FREE for a reason

$34 Million Later, PETA Saves Eight Animals and Euthanizes 2352??

Six hours on tarmac, passenger told "shut the hell up"

Loud sex enough for cops to search your home, court rules

Betting on March Madness: Vegas Secrets to Bracketology

Runner Drops Dead After Crossing Finish Line

Drunk, high dad leaves baby in oven overnight, police say

Broadband Plan: A Guide to America's Internet Revolution

5 Reasons Why the Nets are NOT the Worst Team in NBA History

Dear KFC

Look, I'm black, and I enjoy chicken. There's no correlation between the two, but I figured that statement needed to be made before I make this statement:

YOU GUYS HAVE LOST YOUR FINGER-LICKING MIND!!

First there were boneless wings, then there were boneless ribs, and now, a boneless filet? Let me look up the dictionary definition of filet. A filet is "a boneless cut or slice of meat or fish, esp. the beef tenderloin" or "a piece of veal or other meat boned, rolled, and tied for roasting" (Dictionary.com). What should that mean to you guys? That should mean that what you're serving in a cup and selling for $3.99 is essentially a big ass piece of chicken breast! The last time I checked, isn't that half of your menu in the first place? I suppose when you've been serving plain old original recipe chicken for the past 70 years, you look for a new item to shake up the menu (and the shareholder's pockets). This, though, is just plain old UNORIGINAL, and slightly stupid. Anyone who's eaten KFC will (hopefully) see through this and save themselves the disappointment and stomach ailments from eating a huge piece of processed, hydrogenated, trans-fatty, preservative-laced death, that you guys call your 'Boneless Filet'. Make no bones about it. This item should be off the menu by the end of the month. If not, you guys are doing a really good job advertising, and America is doing a terrible job of reading...

Barack vs. The Bracket

As you may or not (but should) know, President Obama is an avid basketball fan, and has made this the second year that he publicly fills out his bracket for the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. Barry doesn't disappoint me, and picks the Jayhawks from Kansas as the National Champs. However, he does have a few questionable picks and upsets on his bracket. The President even admits that he royally f*cked up last year in the first round, although he picked the eventual winner in North Carolina. Check out the rest of Barry's picks and see what the Commander-in-Chief has to say about some of the top teams in the country...

Rocksmith Spring 2010 Lookbook - Above & Beyond

The good people over at Rocksmith Tokyo have been building a solid following over the past few years with quality streetwear. This spring, the Japanese brand is calling their collection the most refined to date. Also, in true streetwear fashion, they've brought together a menagerie of up-and-coming hip-hop artists and radio hosts to add a little UMPH to the visuals for the collection. Check out some of my favorite pieces and check the rest of the collection at Rocksmith...