Gov. Blagojevich Arrested:Gangsterville, USA...No Place To Play

Yesterday, was Governor Rod Blagojevich's 52nd birthday. As a historical gift, President-elect Barack Obama joined others calling for the 'birthday boy' to resign."The president-elect agrees with Lt. Gov. (Pat) Quinn and many others that under the current circumstances it is difficult for the governor to effectively do his job and serve the people of Illinois," said Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs. Governor Blagojevich was arrested Tuesday at his Chicago home, accused of seeking money or other lucrative favors to influence his choice in picking Obama's replacement.

Chicago and Illinois politics are like none other I have ever known or even read about. But for those of us who affectionately call Chicago home, this kind of shenanigans is business as usual. For people of Illinois to express shock at the latest revelation--our Governor allegedly trying to auction off the U.S. Senate seat to the highest bidder, they are being very hypocritical or at best--very unrealistic.

This is politics--'gangster style', folks. Don't blame the player--blame the game. Winner takes all and WIIFM (Whats in it for me?) is the order of the day in the Chi-town and the Land of Lincoln. Sadly, I am dismayed that Gov. Blagojevich was not given the dignity of going to jail after the fact like so many governors before him. U.S. Attorney Fitzgerald said that Illinois just might be the most corrupt state in the United States. You think?

Why are we breaking a tried and true tradition and now deciding to do things right? Aren't we taking Barack's "change" theme a little too seriously? Surely we cannot believe that this governor is the inventor of "pay to play" politics. And although he's never professed to be the brightest bulb in the Christmas decorations--at least he wasn't stupid enough to consider giving up the seat vacated by President-elect Obama to the most qualified representative in Illinois for a mere 'Coke and a smile'. Especially when he could use it for financial or political leverage for himself. What did they take him for--foolish? Happy Birthday, Governor! I'm glad to see your mama didn't raise no fool. And you can count on me to put a few dollars on your commissary books in the future.

Greed Wal-Mart Style: Save money. Live Better & Lose Your Life.

A Wal-Mart employee from a temporary agency was killed on Black Friday after an "out of control" throng of shoppers eager for post-Thanksgiving bargains broke down the doors at a Long Island, New York store and knocked him to the ground, police said.

Nassau police said about 2,000 people were gathered outside the store doors at the mall about 20 miles east of Manhattan. The impatient crowd knocked the man to the ground as he opened the doors. The 34 year old man was taken to the hospital and pronounced dead at 6 AM.

Kimberly Cribbs, who witnessed the stampede, said as the man lay injured on the ground, shoppers continued to go into the store, simply stepping over him. Shoppers were described as acting like "savages." "When customers were told they had to leave, that an employee had gotten killed, people were yelling 'I've been on line since yesterday morning,'" she said. "They just kept shopping."

Police said criminal charges were possible in the case, but Fleming said it would be difficult to identify individual shoppers. "The safety and security of our customers and associates is our top priority," said Dan Fogleman, a company spokesman.

In my opinion, Wal-Mart and its intense greed is purely to blame for this tragedy. There is no reason this retailer should have had to open at 4 AM in the morning because it is common knowledge that this retailer is operating in the black already. Greed is the basis for creating a buying frenzy of these unsuspecting consumers and costing this youg man his life.

Chittlin' Hunting Chicago-style

I am on the hunt for a serious plate of chittlins to round out my Thanksgiving meal. I can't cook them because my sense of smell won't allow it. However, I would travel near or far for this delicacy. It seems these days you can't find nobody willing to separate with a plate. It's just ridiculous.

Folks used to call each other and brag about how many pounds they was cleaning and invite you over. Nowadays, folks is eating chittlins on the DL and ain't tellin nobody. Howabout it? Can a sistah get an invite for some chittlins on Thanksgiving? Holla atcha girl!
Vanessa

Happy Birthday, Naimah!

I wish we could do what they do in Katroo.

They sure know how to say

Happy Birthday to You!

In Katroo every year,

on the day you were born,

They start the day right in the

bright early morn.

When the birthday Honk Honker

honks high up Mt. Zion,

And lets loose a big blast on the Big Birthday Horn.

And the voice of the horn calls out loud and it plays,

Wake Up! for today is YOUR day of all days!

Happy Birthday Na'Imah

love,

Ma

&

Dr. Suess--your friend to the end!

Happy Birthday: Roland Martin, Dr. Condoleeza Rice, and Prince Charles

An outstanding Secretary of State, British Royalty and a prolific U.S. journalist. What do they have in common--all Scorpios. Tell me you guys, Is it true what they say about y'all?

Happy Birthday to each of you.

Happy Birthday Rev. Run!

Run DMC was one of my favorite rap groups of all times. I saw them live twice. Today, Joseph Simmons is 44 years old. He is accomplished, kind and God-fearing. His family calls him, "blessed." Isn't that all that matters--at the end of the day?

"May your spirit keep the freedom of a butterfly in spring,

and may your heart be filled alwayswith the joys of simple things.

May your essence claim the freshnessof the new laid morning dew. All of this... and more...is my Birthday wish for you.

Jennifer Hudson is Mourning in Luxury...

This is the lobby of Trump International Hotel and Tower, the tallest condominium and hotel building in Chicago, Illinois. It is owned by real-estate mogul Donald Trump. It is on prime Chicago real estate and has some of the the most breathtaking views of the city. It is a long way from Chicago's Englewood community.
Only the most exclusive clientele can afford to stay here or to purchase a condo here.
It has been reported by People Magazine that actress Jennifer Hudson and some of her relatives have been staying here free of charge since her mother, brother and nephew were slain. She is mourning the loss of her loved ones in a very exclusive manner. She is reported to be protected and very safe in these accommodations according to Donald Trump.
There is great irony in all of this tragedy, and God will naturally get the Glory--however, isn't it amazing how rich people can be accommodated for free in luxury situations that they can surely afford to pay for--but in many instances a person without money and in dire need under the same circumstances would not have this privilege? It is great to find favor with the rich & famous. Even mourning can be done in elegant style.