So, this morning the terrorism threat level was raised to RED, the highest security threat level, for any flights coming from Britain and to ORANGE, just one step below that, for all other U.S. domestic flights. The reason behind this was that a terrorist plot to bomb U.S.-bound planes was foiled and 21 suspects were arrested. Police described the planned attack as "mass murder on an unimaginable scale." This is the first time that the terror threat has been raised to the highest level, which is resulting in increased precautionary measures at airports around the country. Because of this, the U.S. government has also banned ALL liquids and gels from flights, including toothpaste, makeup, and suntan lotion. However, baby formula and medicines are exempt from the ban. Flights from London to the U.S. have been cancelled, and increased security is resulting in extreme delays. So, for all my flying birdies, please take all additional precautions, leave your lotion at home, and get there EARLY... Get the rest of the story here.

In Hip Hop news...

Jay-Z and U.N Secretary-General Kofi Annan

Jay-Z announced yesterday in a press conference at the United Nations that he plans to travel to various regions of the world that are affected by the world water crisis and will document this journey in an MTV special set to air Nov. 24. He stated, "Every 15 seconds a child dies from not having access to clean water." During this tour, he'll be meeting with children who are among more than 1 billion people who don't have access tp safe drinking water. Get the story here.

Cassie performed 106 & Park recently, and needless to say, she did not tear it up. I love her first single. It's got a great beat, really catchy... But, unfortuntately, ol' girl just can't blow... uh, I mean sing. She's a pretty girl who can really... move? But, she should stick to lip synching. Be a model..."stand there and look pretty."

**Cassie ft.Young Joc - Me & U (Live At 106 & Park) **

And, my spotlight on the BROWN DIAMOND of the moment is:

MC Lyte

Hip Hop legend MC Lyte recently signed on to attend the second annual Hip Hop Leadership Camp to be held in Los Angeles, CA. To be held on the campus of UCLA from Aug. 10-13th, the 4-day camp targets at-risk youth. "This camp is more than just a series of classes," said HHLC Founder Karen Levy. “The personal interaction and application of the skills acquired in the program gives them the chance to experience their potential as future leaders by using their love of hip-hop and entertainment as a learning tool.” Other industry professionals scheduled to attend include: Sticky Fingaz, Chino XL, Sway, DJ Skee, among a host of others. Students who maintain a 2.5 GPA, and graduate high school are guaranteed an internship in the entertainment field of their choice... Get the rest at All Hip Hop.

I am so happy to see the hip hop community reaching out to the youth. I applaud all of the industry people who choose to get involved and provide positivity to the lives of children, especially at-risk children. I hope they bring this camp to a local area and get other celebrities involved. I'm lovin' it!

In LGBT news...

Kathy Webb, D-Arkansas Jolie Justus, D-Missouri

Jolie Justus, a Democratic candidate in Missouri, is set to become the first openly gay state senator. The lesbian candidate won the Democrative primary for Missouri's 10th district state senate seat. Because the district is heavily Democratic, it virtually ensures that she will become the first out senator this November. Last month, LGBT activist Patricia Todd won her Democratic primary for the Alabama House of Representatives. She will be automatically installed in November, because there is no Republican challenger. Al McAffery won his primary for the Oklahoma House of Representatives recently. His district includes downtown Oklahoma City. He will also be autmotacially installed due to a lack of a Republican challenger. And, Kathy Webb will serve as the first out lesbian in the House of Representatives after winning her seat in Arkansas.

So that's how they do it in the sticks. And, I thought they were all a$$-backward over there. LOL. I guess you never know. I would have expected this to come from NY, or NJ, or Cali... But, instead, it's the deep south and the midwest doing big things. Maybe the rest of the country should take notice and take some notes. Rainbows are doing big things. And, it's about time.

Get the rest of the story here.

Since The Descent has been out for nearly a week, I thought I'd just share my thoughts on the movie. It sucked. Period. I wouldn't waste my money for those of you considering cracking open the piggy-banks this weekend. However, others may feel differently... Check out Rich's review at Four Four... here.

And, finally, there is a play which is returning to the Bay area called "7 Sides of Sadie" which chronicles the life and complexities of one woman. If you are in the Bay area, you should check it out. Get details... here.

And, my choice for video of a day... a bit of a throwback...

Lauryn Hill- Sweetest Thing

Lauryn Hill - Sweetest Thing


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