posh politics

Happy Birthday Michelle O!

2012-01-17T08:36:00.000-08:00

If you haven’t heard, today is the 48th birthday of the First Lady of the United States of America, Michelle Obama. Tweets, Facebook messages, emails and the like, are all abuzz in reference to this day. This BLOG IS NO DIFFERENT! Not only is the first lady POSH, but she is politically savvy, tenacious, intelligent, and a good role model!

Recent press on the #FLOTUS include her appearance on iCarly:

Photo Source: MrsO.com and AP

Michelle recently tweeted: “There are some big iCarly fans in our household, so we're all pretty excited about today's event with military kids and the cast."

And her recent sultry RED fashions at the BET Honors awards show:

Photo Source: CourtneyLuv.com

The Obama-Biden campaign has also helped launch a NEW TWITTER PAGE (@MichelleObama) for the First Lady. Tweets from her are signed “-mo”. In just a few days, the account has well over 300,000 followers.

SIDENOTE: I am GLAD they got that straightened out… there were soooo many “PERP” accounts on #twitter! Can we say #GETALIFE or #KILLYASELF.

Join us in wishing Michelle a wonderful birthday! Sign her card!

See President Obama’s sentiments here

From Broken Memories to Pay Day: A Website that helps you Sell what you NEVER LIKED Anyway

2011-12-28T06:39:00.000-08:00

Good Magazine reports on one of the most innovative ideas for women out there... Taken right out the pages of How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Waiting to Excel, Sex and the City, Girlfriends, and the like comes an idea too good to be true - an "ebay" - like site to sell ALL that "stuff" from your relationship that you just can't look at any more....

Good Magazine says, thanks to a new startup, Never Liked It Anyway, post-relationship closet cleansing can be productive, financially lucrative—and eco-friendly. The site's owner, Bella, came up with the idea when she found herself in possession of a useless plane ticket after a pre-Christmas breakup. Using a simple WordPress site and no additional funding, she crafted a sort of eBay-meets-support-group where users can sell items of sentimental value at a "break-up" price and vent on the Internet while they're at it.

Just click on the link and you will see the Bargain of the Week, a wedding dress with the title "I Hope Your Luckier than Me".

It goes without saying that break-ups don't just create emotional baggage, but literal baggage as well.......Here's the opportunity to turn that around. One person's relationship casualty could be another's fashion couture! One woman's plane ticket filled with memories, hurt, and loss, could be the "saving grace" for another....

The idea is definitely POSH, both smart and fashionable.... take a second, look around that bedroom of yours, is there something from an EX you may want to sell? Chances are... you never liked it anyway!

MICHELLE GOT A BIG O' BUTT? WELL, A US CONGRESSMAN THINKS SO

2011-12-22T08:19:00.000-08:00

US Congressman Sensenbrenner was over heard criticizing the first lady for her figure this past Wednesday.

"She lectures us on eating right while she has a large posterior herself," says the lawmaker as reported in Mediabistro.com, the Huffingtonpost, and ABCNews.

The Huffington Post continues to expound on the issue saying, The most bothersome issue here is the conflation of two entirely separate matters: the First Lady's (natural) physique and her campaign for healthy eating and physical fitness.

Michelle has traveled the country for her "Let's Move!" campaign for over a year, talking about healthy eating, promoting a more user-friendly pyramid graphic, getting stores like Walmart to stock their shelves with nutritious items and playing sports with kids.

Regardless of the true intent of the Congressman's comment (which has been "cleaned up" by a Capitol Hill aide), we celebrate our #FLOTUS and the beauty she eminates!

Read more from Huffington Post.

Just for fun .... Listen to WRECKX - N - EFFECT who could have said it better than the Congressman

15 (POSH OR NOT) THINGS that BLACK girls do on FACEBOOK

2011-12-19T09:24:00.000-08:00

Do you fall victim to ANY or ALL of the following?

1. Invent middle names that declare their mantra of the moment such as Keisha blessedandbeautiful Johnson or T’Andrea OhSoClassssssy Washington.

2. Complain about their enemies without actually naming the person, knowing that the offender will read the status: “It’s sad how some people are SO PETTY and can’t mind their OWN BUSINESS. I’m gonna pray for them because they need Jesus.”

3. Transform into social media ministers by posting bible verses or just making up inspirational quotes. “Men are like a box of Goobers. They seem sweet at first but they’re really just a bunch of nuts.”

4. Use their Facebook status updates to yell at the stars of Real Housewives of Atlanta, Basketball Wives and Love & Hip Hop. (You know NeNe can’t “hear” you, right?)

5. Post pictures of their Big Chop and other photos to document their “natural hair journey.” (White girls, if you’re confused go ask your black girlfriends what Big Chop means.)

6. To show off their new hairstyle, dress, or SHOES (added BY POSH) they take a picture in front of the bathroom mirror, with the door frame and toilet in the shot.

7. Stalk ex boyfriends. This is called “watching your back.”

8. Stalk current boyfriends. This is called “research.”

9. Declare there are no good men left anywhere on the planet Earth.

10. Pretend to be in relationships with celebrities. “Did you see my husband Kobe out there?” “About to watch my boo Idris in this new movie…”

11. Ask for help with such life-changing decisions as “Should I cook Oodles of Noodles or Hamburger Helper for dinner?”

12. Make a statement like “I’m SO pissed right now!” to get sympathy in comments, but when people ask what’s wrong they refuse to explain.

13. Providing play-by-play for every menial task on their to-do list: “Today I have to go to the bank, then go do this laundry, and pick up some bobby pins from Walgreens…”

14. Announce they need a “new start” and therefore will be deleting dozens of Facebook friends.

15. Complain that they don’t understand “that Twitter thing” and will never EVER use it.

Caught on the web from VERY POSH blogs including Brown Girl Next Door and Georgia Mae.

This list was written after 15 Things White Girls Love to Do on Facebook, a blog post by Mary of Fibromy-Awesome went VIRAL and got popular throughout the social space.

Plan B: Aisle NEVER?

2011-12-08T11:36:00.000-08:00

It seems like President Obama may not be as progressive as once thought? After a decision by his health secretary, President Obama has public defended and supported the decision to NOT allow Plan B contraception next to condoms in your neighborhood drug store.

Is President Obama too conservative for the NEXT generation or just a concerned parent?

Yahoo News reports: "As the father of two daughters," he said, "I think it is important for us to make sure that we apply some common sense to various rules when it comes to over-the-counter medicine."

The president spoke the morning after his administration stunned major doctors' groups and women's health advocates with the decision.

The argument seems to follow that about: “do guns kill people or do people kill people?” Will the availability of Plan B cause more sex or will people cause more sex (and tangentially promiscuity, STDs, unwed pregnant mothers, abortions, welfare cases, etc)? What do you think?

Regardless, the #POTUS seems to be making more and more public decisions as we get closer to the 2012 election. This makes for a VERY interesting election season. Read the full article on Yahoo! News.

Frappes for Food Stamps: Posh or Not?

2011-12-03T08:19:00.000-08:00

A Fox investigation has revealed that government issued subsidies, in this case, FOOD STAMPS, are being used for "luxury" food purchases at Starbucks. Food stamps have been thought of as mechanisms for financial assistance on " food staples" and "more necessary" items, and therefore this new revelation is reported to have caused "OUTRAGE" across the country.

Since hearing the news, public comments arise:

'It's crazy, they're overpriced as it is. That's money that somebody could be eating with -- a loaf of bread, a gallon of milk. There are a lot of loopholes.'

'If tax dollars are being used to feed poor people in need then fine, but use the tax dollars for staples, not luxuries. Change the law. End the waste and fraud.'

According to guidelines from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, food stamp users cannot buy hot foods or foods that will be eaten in the store. However, store registers classify items as “groceries”, and if it’s cold, its valid for food stamp purchase.

A spokesperson for the State Department of Human Services said they weren't aware of the loophole in the program being exploited and the issue will be investigated.

I’m not sure this issue is posh or not? Starbucks food isn’t the most “filling”, but at the end of the day, should the federal government be able to regulate what one purchases to this extreme?

Black Faced Cosby Show Characters: Top Halloween Costume of 2011?

2011-11-15T07:10:00.001-08:00

source: Huffington Post

After reports of a picture on Facebook, University of Southern Mississippi officials placed members of the Phi Mu sorority on probation for attending a Halloween party dressed in BLACKFACE to depict the Huxtable family from “The Cosby Show”. The Halloween party was ‘80’s themed.

Blackface is a form of theatrical makeup used in minstrel shows, and later vaudeville, in which performers create a stereotyped caricature of a black person. The practice gained popularity during the 19th century and propagated American racist stereotypes such as the "happy-go-lucky darky on the plantation" or the "dandified coon ".

According to the Associated Press, Joe Paul, vice president of student affairs, says the executive officers of Phi Mu and the women involved met on Sunday with a group of African-American student leaders at the university.

Phi Mu’s national president says that the choice of costumes does not reflect the values of the sorority. This may be true, but it does make one wonder. What does this choice of BLACKFACE post-Obama reflect?

Related: Have you seen Rudy and Olivia Lately??

source: Huffington Post

#OCCUPYSOCIALMEDIA: Your New Internet Indulgence

2011-11-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

Source: Generaton X, Y, and Z.

Everyone has a guilty pleasure, a tv show they watch that they are not proud of. A piece of candy that makes them “woo-sah”. A website that they only view from their personal tablets…. Well here’s another one to add to your list, and you can feel good about it too!

In the wake of social media activism, internet movements, real-life movements, AND OCCUPATIONS comes a way to keep up with the #Occupy Movement. It’s a site called The Occupationalist. It provides real time updates, all day, everyday of the occupy movement and who’s talking about these movements via social media across the nation.

The #Occupy movement started as a protest in New York. Since these events on Wall Street, additional movements have started in several major U.S. cities including Denver, Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, St. Louis and San Diego.

Digatial Trends says, The Occupationalist is a social media aggregator that combines constantly updated content from Tumblr, Twitter, Google Video, Meetup.com and Foursquare into a single page.

The Twitter feeds are organized by hashtags specific to the overall movement and various cities. For instance, tweets with the #OWS hashtag are shown on the left side of the page and tweets using hashtags with specific city names, like #OCCUPYBALTIMORE, #OCCUPYALTANTA, etc.
IMHO, we all want to keep up with the #occupy movement in some way shape or form. We hope they find an ultimate purpose. We hope they keep going and FIGHT the 1%. Wellllllp, here’s your way to secretly support, see who openly supports, and learn more about the #occupymovement in your area.

Learn more about the Occupationalist and its creators.

ATLANTA YOU ARE INVITED: REAL MEN WEAR PINK

2011-10-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

An Evening of Cocktails to Aid in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

Performance By:Musiq Soulchild

Hosted By:Camille Binder Ryan Glover Bryan Michael Cox April Love Eboni Elektra

Dr. Jacqueline Walters

Thursday, October 27t,h 20118pm-11pm
W Atlanta Downtown45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd Atlanta, GA

RSVP Required:RMWPAtlanta@gmail.com

Have a cocktail on us, because real men wear pink and EVERYONE is looking for a cure!

NEW DATE FOR THE MLK MEMORIAL COMMEMORATION

2011-09-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

Get your children together, email your friends again, and find your camera because the event to commemorate one of the most historic men of our time has been re-scheduled.

Hurricane Irene may have stopped the party last time, but the event must go on!!!! Let's keep the word spreading and bring out support in numbers for such a historic monument and event.

As reported on Fox5Atlanta.com, organizers have set new date in October for dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington.

Executive Architect Ed Jackson Jr. told The Associated Press on Sunday that the memorial will now be dedicated Oct. 16. A formal announcement is expected soon.

The dedication had been planned for Aug. 28, the 48th anniversary of King's "I Have a Dream" speech. But it was delayed by Hurricane Irene.

Read more on Fox 5 Atlanta #MLKmemorial2011

POSH POLL: How Long Does it Take Apathy to Set In?

2011-09-09T07:14:00.000-07:00

I too, like many Americans, can remember where I was when September 11th happened in 2001.

I was a new student at the University of Pittsburgh and a Pathfinder (tour guide). I was giving a tour of the campus and entered the student center. I then started to notice that my tour attendees stopped paying attention to me. Astonished, because I thought I was the best thing since sliced bread, I started to look at where there attention was directed. This gaze brought me to a television screen, where I saw a video of a plane hitting the first World Trade Center tower.
“Is this a movie?” they asked when they noticed I had stopped talking. “Do you show movies on this television in the student center?”

I was frozen. As you know, it wasn’t a movie.

We never showed movies during time at Pitt.

Fast forward to today- September 9, 2011.

Though that moment, and the ones that followed, were those that I would never forget, it was 10 years ago. I have never been to Ground Zero. I never had issues contacting a loved one in New York during this time. I never saw the smoke, the rubble, or the body parts first hand. In a way, I was removed. It’s real, but then it’s unreal for me.

Am I not American because I don’t sit and watch every special to REMEMBER 9/11? Am I a “bad person” because I have rolled my eyes at the plethora of specials, ads, news clippings, and stories about THAT DAY and the DAYS after?

Maybe I am just a victim of one of the most pervasive illnesses to affect the American people. One that can stay within the body for years on end, tends to show limited symptoms, and can only be detected when something like “a need for action” flares up. This illness is called apathy.I have always wondered, when, and how, does apathy occur. Furthermore, how long does it take for apathy to set in?

Apathy has been a word thrown around whenever people disagree on how much one “cares” or “should care” about a certain subject. This level of care is ALWAYS relative, however, and can be manifested in several different ways. I mean, some people argue that vehicles like social media has allowed apathy to become even more common. Does a facebook status denote care? Does this make someone more/less apathetic than me?

If I follow #remember911 , have I done my part?

I’m not saying that I “don’t care” about what happened during 9/11. I’m not saying that I do not feel bad for those whose lives were lost and for their families. What I am saying, however, is that I may be slightly apathetic about the issue.

I’m guessing it took 10 years for me to get that way.

J.O.B: We Cannot Wait 14 more Months

2011-09-08T17:28:00.000-07:00

Did you hear/see President Obama's speech?

If not, here it is from our Friends at the Washington Post

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, and fellow Americans:

Tonight we meet at an urgent time for our country. We continue to face an economic crisis that has left millions of our neighbors jobless, and a political crisis that has made things worse.
This past week, reporters have been asking “What will this speech mean for the President? What will it mean for Congress? How will it affect their polls, and the next election?”

But the millions of Americans who are watching right now: they don’t care about politics. They have real life concerns. Many have spent months looking for work. Others are doing their best just to scrape by – giving up nights out with the family to save on gas or make the mortgage; postponing retirement to send a kid to college.

These men and women grew up with faith in an America where hard work and responsibility paid off. They believed in a country where everyone gets a fair shake and does their fair share – where if you stepped up, did your job, and were loyal to your company, that loyalty would be rewarded with a decent salary and good benefits; maybe a raise once in awhile. If you did the right thing, you could make it in America.

But for decades now, Americans have watched that compact erode. They have seen the deck too often stacked against them. And they know that Washington hasn’t always put their interests first.

The people of this country work hard to meet their responsibilities. The question tonight is whether we’ll meet ours. The question is whether, in the face of an ongoing national crisis, we can stop the political circus and actually do something to help the economy; whether we can restore some of the fairness and security that has defined this nation since our beginning.
Those of us here tonight can’t solve all of our nation’s woes. Ultimately, our recovery will be driven not by Washington, but by our businesses and our workers. But we can help. We can make a difference. There are steps we can take right now to improve people’s lives.

I am sending this Congress a plan that you should pass right away. It’s called the American Jobs Act. There should be nothing controversial about this piece of legislation. Everything in here is the kind of proposal that’s been supported by both Democrats and Republicans – including many who sit here tonight. And everything in this bill will be paid for. Everything.

The purpose of the American Jobs Act is simple: to put more people back to work and more money in the pockets of those who are working. It will create more jobs for construction workers, more jobs for teachers, more jobs for veterans, and more jobs for the long-term unemployed. It will provide a tax break for companies who hire new workers, and it will cut payroll taxes in half for every working American and every small business. It will provide a jolt to an economy that has stalled, and give companies confidence that if they invest and hire, there will be customers for their products and services. You should pass this jobs plan right away.

Everyone here knows that small businesses are where most new jobs begin. And you know that while corporate profits have come roaring back, smaller companies haven’t. So for everyone who speaks so passionately about making life easier for “job creators,” this plan is for you.

Pass this jobs bill, and starting tomorrow, small businesses will get a tax cut if they hire new workers or raise workers’ wages. Pass this jobs bill, and all small business owners will also see their payroll taxes cut in half next year. If you have 50 employees making an average salary, that’s an $80,000 tax cut. And all businesses will be able to continue writing off the investments they make in 2012.

It’s not just Democrats who have supported this kind of proposal. Fifty House Republicans have proposed the same payroll tax cut that’s in this plan. You should pass it right away.
Pass this jobs bill, and we can put people to work rebuilding America. Everyone here knows that we have badly decaying roads and bridges all over this country. Our highways are clogged with traffic. Our skies are the most congested in the world.

This is inexcusable. Building a world-class transportation system is part of what made us an economic superpower. And now we’re going to sit back and watch China build newer airports and faster railroads? At a time when millions of unemployed construction workers could build them right here in America?

There are private construction companies all across America just waiting to get to work. There’s a bridge that needs repair between Ohio and Kentucky that’s on one of the busiest trucking routes in North America. A public transit project in Houston that will help clear up one of the worst areas of traffic in the country. And there are schools throughout this country that desperately need renovating. How can we expect our kids to do their best in places that are literally falling apart? This is America. Every child deserves a great school – and we can give it to them, if we act now.

The American Jobs Act will repair and modernize at least 35,000 schools. It will put people to work right now fixing roofs and windows; installing science labs and high-speed internet in classrooms all across this country. It will rehabilitate homes and businesses in communities hit hardest by foreclosures. It will jumpstart thousands of transportation projects across the country. And to make sure the money is properly spent and for good purposes, we’re building on reforms we’ve already put in place. No more earmarks. No more boondoggles. No more bridges to nowhere. We’re cutting the red tape that prevents some of these projects from getting started as quickly as possible. And we’ll set up an independent fund to attract private dollars and issue loans based on two criteria: how badly a construction project is needed and how much good it would do for the economy.

This idea came from a bill written by a Texas Republican and a Massachusetts Democrat. The idea for a big boost in construction is supported by America’s largest business organization and America’s largest labor organization. It’s the kind of proposal that’s been supported in the past by Democrats and Republicans alike. You should pass it right away.

Pass this jobs bill, and thousands of teachers in every state will go back to work. These are the men and women charged with preparing our children for a world where the competition has never been tougher. But while they’re adding teachers in places like South Korea, we’re laying them off in droves. It’s unfair to our kids. It undermines their future and ours. And it has to stop. Pass this jobs bill, and put our teachers back in the classroom where they belong.

Pass this jobs bill, and companies will get extra tax credits if they hire America’s veterans. We ask these men and women to leave their careers, leave their families, and risk their lives to fight for our country. The last thing they should have to do is fight for a job when they come home.
Pass this bill, and hundreds of thousands of disadvantaged young people will have the hope and dignity of a summer job next year. And their parents, low-income Americans who desperately want to work, will have more ladders out of poverty.

Pass this jobs bill, and companies will get a $4,000 tax credit if they hire anyone who has spent more than six months looking for a job. We have to do more to help the long-term unemployed in their search for work. This jobs plan builds on a program in Georgia that several Republican leaders have highlighted, where people who collect unemployment insurance participate in temporary work as a way to build their skills while they look for a permanent job. The plan also extends unemployment insurance for another year. If the millions of unemployed Americans stopped getting this insurance, and stopped using that money for basic necessities, it would be a devastating blow to this economy. Democrats and Republicans in this Chamber have supported unemployment insurance plenty of times in the past. At this time of prolonged hardship, you should pass it again – right away.

Pass this jobs bill, and the typical working family will get a fifteen hundred dollar tax cut next year. Fifteen hundred dollars that would have been taken out of your paycheck will go right into your pocket. This expands on the tax cut that Democrats and Republicans already passed for this year. If we allow that tax cut to expire – if we refuse to act – middle-class families will get hit with a tax increase at the worst possible time. We cannot let that happen. I know some of you have sworn oaths to never raise any taxes on anyone for as long as you live. Now is not the time to carve out an exception and raise middle-class taxes, which is why you should pass this bill right away.

This is the American Jobs Act. It will lead to new jobs for construction workers, teachers, veterans, first responders, young people and the long-term unemployed. It will provide tax credits to companies that hire new workers, tax relief for small business owners, and tax cuts for the middle-class.

And here’s the other thing I want the American people to know: the American Jobs Act will not add to the deficit. It will be paid for. And here’s how:
The agreement we passed in July will cut government spending by about $1 trillion over the next ten years. It also charges this Congress to come up with an additional $1.5 trillion in savings by Christmas. Tonight, I’m asking you to increase that amount so that it covers the full cost of the American Jobs Act. And a week from Monday, I’ll be releasing a more ambitious deficit plan – a plan that will not only cover the cost of this jobs bill, but stabilize our debt in the long run.
This approach is basically the one I’ve been advocating for months.

In addition to the trillion dollars of spending cuts I’ve already signed into law, it’s a balanced plan that would reduce the deficit by making additional spending cuts; by making modest adjustments to health care programs like Medicare and Medicaid; and by reforming our tax code in a way that asks the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations to pay their fair share. What’s more, the spending cuts wouldn’t happen so abruptly that they’d be a drag on our economy, or prevent us from helping small business and middle-class families get back on their feet right away.

Now, I realize there are some in my party who don’t think we should make any changes at all to Medicare and Medicaid, and I understand their concerns. But here’s the truth. Millions of Americans rely on Medicare in their retirement. And millions more will do so in the future. They pay for this benefit during their working years. They earn it. But with an aging population and rising health care costs, we are spending too fast to sustain the program. And if we don’t gradually reform the system while protecting current beneficiaries, it won’t be there when future retirees need it. We have to reform Medicare to strengthen it.

I’m also well aware that there are many Republicans who don’t believe we should raise taxes on those who are most fortunate and can best afford it. But here is what every American knows. While most people in this country struggle to make ends meet, a few of the most affluent citizens and corporations enjoy tax breaks and loopholes that nobody else gets. Right now, Warren Buffet pays a lower tax rate than his secretary – an outrage he has asked us to fix. We need a tax code where everyone gets a fair shake, and everybody pays their fair share. And I believe the vast majority of wealthy Americans and CEOs are willing to do just that, if it helps the economy grow and gets our fiscal house in order.

I’ll also offer ideas to reform a corporate tax code that stands as a monument to special interest influence in Washington. By eliminating pages of loopholes and deductions, we can lower one of the highest corporate tax rates in the world. Our tax code shouldn’t give an advantage to companies that can afford the best-connected lobbyists. It should give an advantage to companies that invest and create jobs here in America.

So we can reduce this deficit, pay down our debt, and pay for this jobs plan in the process. But in order to do this, we have to decide what our priorities are. We have to ask ourselves, “What’s the best way to grow the economy and create jobs?”

Should we keep tax loopholes for oil companies? Or should we use that money to give small business owners a tax credit when they hire new workers? Because we can’t afford to do both. Should we keep tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires? Or should we put teachers back to work so our kids can graduate ready for college and good jobs? Right now, we can’t afford to do both.

This isn’t political grandstanding. This isn’t class warfare. This is simple math. These are real choices that we have to make. And I’m pretty sure I know what most Americans would choose. It’s not even close. And it’s time for us to do what’s right for our future.

The American Jobs Act answers the urgent need to create jobs right away. But we can’t stop there. As I’ve argued since I ran for this office, we have to look beyond the immediate crisis and start building an economy that lasts into the future – an economy that creates good, middle-class jobs that pay well and offer security. We now live in a world where technology has made it possible for companies to take their business anywhere. If we want them to start here and stay here and hire here, we have to be able to out-build, out-educate, and out-innovate every other country on Earth.

This task, of making America more competitive for the long haul, is a job for all of us. For government and for private companies. For states and for local communities – and for every American citizen. All of us will have to up our game. All of us will have to change the way we do business.

My administration can and will take some steps to improve our competitiveness on our own. For example, if you’re a small business owner who has a contract with the federal government, we’re going to make sure you get paid a lot faster than you do now. We’re also planning to cut away the red tape that prevents too many rapidly-growing start-up companies from raising capital and going public. And to help responsible homeowners, we’re going to work with Federal housing agencies to help more people refinance their mortgages at interest rates that are now near 4% -- a step that can put more than $2,000 a year in a family’s pocket, and give a lift to an economy still burdened by the drop in housing prices.

Other steps will require Congressional action. Today you passed reform that will speed up the outdated patent process, so that entrepreneurs can turn a new idea into a new business as quickly as possible. That’s the kind of action we need. Now it’s time to clear the way for a series of trade agreements that would make it easier for American companies to sell their products in Panama, Colombia, and South Korea – while also helping the workers whose jobs have been affected by global competition. If Americans can buy Kias and Hyundais, I want to see folks in South Korea driving Fords and Chevys and Chryslers. I want to see more products sold around the world stamped with three proud words: “Made in America.”

And on all of our efforts to strengthen competitiveness, we need to look for ways to work side-by-side with America’s businesses. That’s why I’ve brought together a Jobs Council of leaders from different industries who are developing a wide range of new ideas to help companies grow and create jobs.

Already, we’ve mobilized business leaders to train 10,000 American engineers a year, by providing company internships and training. Other businesses are covering tuition for workers who learn new skills at community colleges. And we’re going to make sure the next generation of manufacturing takes root not in China or Europe, but right here, in the United States of America. If we provide the right incentives and support – and if we make sure our trading partners play by the rules – we can be the ones to build everything from fuel-efficient cars to advanced biofuels to semiconductors that are sold all over the world. That’s how America can be number one again. That’s how America will be number one again.

Now, I realize that some of you have a different theory on how to grow the economy. Some of you sincerely believe that the only solution to our economic challenges is to simply cut most government spending and eliminate most government regulations.

Well, I agree that we can’t afford wasteful spending, and I will continue to work with Congress to get rid of it. And I agree that there are some rules and regulations that put an unnecessary burden on businesses at a time when they can least afford it. That’s why I ordered a review of all government regulations. So far, we’ve identified over 500 reforms, which will save billions of dollars over the next few years. We should have no more regulation than the health, safety, and security of the American people require. Every rule should meet that common sense test.

But what we can’t do – what I won’t do – is let this economic crisis be used as an excuse to wipe out the basic protections that Americans have counted on for decades. I reject the idea that we need to ask people to choose between their jobs and their safety. I reject the argument that says for the economy to grow, we have to roll back protections that ban hidden fees by credit card companies, or rules that keep our kids from being exposed to mercury, or laws that prevent the health insurance industry from shortchanging patients. I reject the idea that we have to strip away collective bargaining rights to compete in a global economy. We shouldn’t be in a race to the bottom, where we try to offer the cheapest labor and the worst pollution standards. America should be in a race to the top. And I believe that’s a race we can win.

In fact, this larger notion that the only thing we can do to restore prosperity is just dismantle government, refund everyone’s money, let everyone write their own rules, and tell everyone they’re on their own – that’s not who we are. That’s not the story of America.

Yes, we are rugged individualists. Yes, we are strong and self-reliant. And it has been the drive and initiative of our workers and entrepreneurs that has made this economy the engine and envy of the world.

But there has always been another thread running throughout our history – a belief that we are all connected; and that there are some things we can only do together, as a nation.

We all remember Abraham Lincoln as the leader who saved our Union. But in the middle of a Civil War, he was also a leader who looked to the future – a Republican president who mobilized government to build the transcontinental railroad; launch the National Academy of Sciences; and set up the first land grant colleges. And leaders of both parties have followed the example he set.
Ask yourselves – where would we be right now if the people who sat here before us decided not to build our highways and our bridges; our dams and our airports? What would this country be like if we had chosen not to spend money on public high schools, or research universities, or community colleges? Millions of returning heroes, including my grandfather, had the opportunity to go to school because of the GI Bill. Where would we be if they hadn’t had that chance?

How many jobs would it have cost us if past Congresses decided not to support the basic research that led to the Internet and the computer chip? What kind of country would this be if this Chamber had voted down Social Security or Medicare just because it violated some rigid idea about what government could or could not do? How many Americans would have suffered as a result?

No single individual built America on their own. We built it together. We have been, and always will be, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all; a nation with responsibilities to ourselves and with responsibilities to one another. Members of Congress, it is time for us to meet our responsibilities.

Every proposal I’ve laid out tonight is the kind that’s been supported by Democrats and Republicans in the past. Every proposal I’ve laid out tonight will be paid for. And every proposal is designed to meet the urgent needs of our people and our communities.

I know there’s been a lot of skepticism about whether the politics of the moment will allow us to pass this jobs plan – or any jobs plan. Already, we’re seeing the same old press releases and tweets flying back and forth. Already, the media has proclaimed that it’s impossible to bridge our differences. And maybe some of you have decided that those differences are so great that we can only resolve them at the ballot box.

But know this: the next election is fourteen months away. And the people who sent us here – the people who hired us to work for them – they don’t have the luxury of waiting fourteen months. Some of them are living week to week; paycheck to paycheck; even day to day. They need help, and they need it now.

I don’t pretend that this plan will solve all our problems. It shouldn’t be, nor will it be, the last plan of action we propose. What’s guided us from the start of this crisis hasn’t been the search for a silver bullet. It’s been a commitment to stay at it – to be persistent – to keep trying every new idea that works, and listen to every good proposal, no matter which party comes up with it.
Regardless of the arguments we’ve had in the past, regardless of the arguments we’ll have in the future, this plan is the right thing to do right now. You should pass it. And I intend to take that message to every corner of this country. I also ask every American who agrees to lift your voice and tell the people who are gathered here tonight that you want action now. Tell Washington that doing nothing is not an option. Remind us that if we act as one nation, and one people, we have it within our power to meet this challenge.

President Kennedy once said, “Our problems are man-made – therefore they can be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants.”

These are difficult years for our country. But we are Americans. We are tougher than the times that we live in, and we are bigger than our politics have been. So let’s meet the moment. Let’s get to work, and show the world once again why the United States of America remains the greatest nation on Earth. Thank you, God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.

President Obama Sets Two Hollywood Fundraisers (Exclusive)

2011-08-31T11:48:00.000-07:00

from The Hollywood Reporter ...

Obama will return to Los Angeles on September 26 for a pair of events designed to attract entertainment industry supporters.

In the second of what is sure to be a series of fundraising visits to Hollywood donors, President Barack Obama will return to Los Angeles on September 26th for a pair of events scaled to accommodate a variety of incomes.

The first of the two fundraisers -- both of which are designed to attract entertainment industry supporters -- is scheduled for 4:30 pm at the House of Blues on Sunset Boulevard.

A mere $250 will get a single person in the door, while $10,000 is the cost to take a photo with the president. Later that evening, Obama will network with the heavy hitters at Fig & Olive restaurant on chic Melrose Place. Thirty-five-thousand dollars allows you to bring a date. If you're on your own, it will only set you back $17,900. The main event will be a chance to participate in a Q&A with the president.

Sources say that invitations to both fundraisers are set to go out this week.

Read More

Have you heard of the “DO SOMETHING” Awards??

2011-08-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

The Do Something Awards have grown steadily since 2007, being seen on both The CW and as a part of the 2008-9 Teen Choice Awards. Celebrity presenters & participants have included hot acts like Scarlett Johansson, Usher, Lauren Conrad, Nick Cannon, Akon, and more.

This year's ceremony, which was held last Sunday and airs Thursday, August 18 at 9 p.m. EST on VH1, awards both stars and young activists tacking everything from hunger to refugee issues. Five young semi-finalists under 25 have the chance to win $100,000 for their cause. The winner will be announced Thursday.

In a world of glitz and glamour, it is always refreshing to hear about celebrities using their “influence” to do good and also about the organizations that recognize this good.

Do you want to see who was the best dressed? Check out this list from In Style

Learn more about the Do Something! Awards

Some Georgians Question Current and Proposed Congressional District Lines

2011-08-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

(EVENT Recap- August 8, 2011)

Ebenezer Baptist Church was filled with over 150 people attendees interested in speaking and asking questions about current and proposed Congressional District lines at a panel discussion hosted by Congressman John Lewis on Monday night. By the time the floor was opened for questions at 7:30pm, the line stretched down the center aisle and almost to the door. The event was proposed from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

Questions from the audience centered around “Voter ID” laws that have passed throughout the nation, the Voting Rights Act, and the current “bi partisan” redistricting exercise happening in Georgia. Some even questioned their current district lines and their current Congressional representation and took “microphone time” to express these concerns.

How can the community get involved? How can voter id laws be stopped and/or challenged? What does the Voting Rights Act mean in 2011?

There to answer questions was a panel of experts from all sides of the issue including:

• GA Congressman John Lewis: Georgia’s Fifth District Representative
• GA Representative Stacey Abrams: Democratic House Minority Leader
• Julie Fernandes: United States Deputy Assistant Attorney General Civil Rights Division, Department of Justice
• Jerry Gonzalez: Director, Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials
• Elisabeth MacNamara: President, League of Women Voters of the United States
• Fred McBride, Ph.D: Redistricting Coordinator I Research Analyst, American Civil Liberties Union, Voting Rights Project
• Bill Nigut: Southeast Regional Director of the AntiDefamation League
• Judy Yi: Programs Director, Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc.
• Sally Yates – United States Attorney Northern District of Georgia, Department of Justice (moderator)

Though each had something poignant to say, Representative Stacey Abrams was the most informative on actions in Georgia. She stated that re-districting decisions were not just about what her district will look like, they were more about each Georgian in the room and who would represent them. Congressman John Lewis also spoke about the importance of the Voting Rights Act and access to the ballot box. He alluded that redistricting, or “misdistricting” as I call it, in Georgia is new age discrimination and as informed voters, we must all be aware.

After the event came to a close, many attendees stormed the panel to ask personal questions and to voice concerns.

Proving to be timely, the event was held just before the Georgia General Assembly reports back to work for a Special Session on Redistricting. The special session begins on August 15th.

ENDING THE NATION’S DEBT PROBLEM ON THE BACKS OF BLACK GRADUATES?

2011-08-02T07:13:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning shocked.

As we all know, Congress is currently preparing to vote on a debt ceiling deal struck between President Obama and congressional Republicans and Democrats (arguably), in order to save the economic health of our great Country. Many expect this deal to close today at noon with a final passage vote by the U.S. Senate.

What you (me) may not know is the way in which this legislation could ultimately change the federal student aid program and money granted to graduate students, more specifically, for school.

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) predicts that the new “debt deal” legislation would
eliminate the subsidized loan program for graduate students.

More specifically, CBO states in a letter to the U.S. Congress, “Beginning July 1, 2012, the bill would eliminate the interest subsidy on subsidized student loans for almost all graduate students while a borrower is in school, in the post-school grace period, and during any authorized deferment period.“

Current and future graduate students would not only be paying more for graduate school, but they would be paying MORE SOONER! Students would NEED TO PAY INTEREST WHILE IN SCHOOL!

Though it seems like this “deal” has already been made, graduate students, especially African American students, across the United States need to be made aware of this change. Many graduate students depend on these loans to help fund their graduate studies. Eliminating such funds will make it that much harder for African Americans to close the achievement gap and continue on to graduate school. Private funders and organizations, non-profits, university academic departments, and more will need to increase their support of graduate students to keep them in school.

This bill will also disproportionately affect the number of African Americans receiving graduate degrees from HBCUs and other private institutions. As these schools continue to cost higher than their public counterparts, many graduate students who attend these schools MUST DEPEND on unsubsidized AND subsidized loans for school.

In closing, I implore graduate students across the Country to HOLD their representatives accountable. HOLD President Barack Obama accountable! Send an email to Speaker of the House, the President, the Minority Leader, and the Majority Leader. Let your Congressional representative know how you feel about this “deal”.

As with most deals, games, and the like, there are always winners and losers. But it’s even more shocking when you didn’t even know that you were a part of the game?!

-Lauren E Williams, MPA
National President
National Black Graduate Student Association 2011-2012

DC EVENT: RALLY ON THE EMERGENCY DEBT CEILING

2011-07-27T14:37:00.000-07:00

SHOW ME THE MONEY!!!!

MoveOn, Rebuild the Dream, AFSCME, LCCR, AFL-CIO, AFGE, ColorOfChange, Campaign for America's Future and Many Others To Gather At Noon Thursday Across The Street From Cannon House Office Building.

SPEAKING: Congressman Keith Ellison; Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky; Congresswoman Barbara Lee; Congressman Raul Grijalva; Congresswoman Donna Edwards; Van Jones, Rebuild the Dream; John Gage, AFGE; Tiffany Mellers, MoveOn.org; and Sarita Gupta, Jobs with Justice.

WHAT: American Dream Movement Rally to Demand Debt Deal that Protects Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, while Making Millionaires and Corporations Pay their Fair Share

WHERE: Capitol Hill, across the street from the Cannon House Office Building - corner of 1st NE and Independence Ave.

WHEN: Noon, Thursday, July 28th

DC EVENT: African American Civil War Museum Ribbon Cutting

2011-07-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

Holmes Norton and others attend ribbon cutting and grand opening Dedication Ceremony, Today, July 18th at 12pm

WASHINGTON, DC –“With much generous support from the Mayor and Council of the District of Columbia and hard work by our staff and volunteers, it is finally finished, a great new 5,000 sq. ft. African American Civil War Museum at 1925 VermontAvenue, N.W.”said Dr. Frank Smith, Founder/Director. 2011 ushered in the beginning of a four-year celebration as America remembers the 150thAnniversary of the American Civil War and the 50thAnniversary of the Civil Rights Movement. The 3-Day Celebration, July 16 –18, 2011; the theme is “Civil War to Civil Rights, Pathway to Racial Healing.”

For more than ten years, the African American Civil War Monument and Museum has stood as a testament to the struggle of African Americans and others to rid this nation of the scourge of slavery and racial bias. There is no doubt, America is a much better place for all having shed itself of slavery and a Jim Crow past, now comes closer to living out the meaning of the words „One Nation, Under God, Indivisible, With Liberty and Justice for All‟.

On July 18, 2011 at 12 noon, the Grand Opening of thisgreat, new and permanent site of the African American Civil War Museum, will join the ranks of educational, historically accurate and interactive museums, with $5 million in exhibitions, touch screensand the best curator in town! The New location at 1925 Vermont Avenue NW is directly across from the African American Civil War Memorial, which highlights the story of the 209,145 African American Soldiers who served during the American Civil War.

The Board of Directors and Staff of the AACWM invite all to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony of the New Museum, to be held Monday, July 18, 2011 beginning with a VIP reception at 12:00 noon. The Opening Ceremony and Awards Program will start at 1pm. Mayor Vincent Gray and Congresswoman Eleanor Norton and other elected officials and dignitaries have been invited.

LOCATION: 1925 VERMONT AVENUE, NW

Lets Talk About Sex 2011

2011-07-15T13:01:00.000-07:00

SisterSong's 2011 Let's Talk About Sex National Conference is a celebration of the movement for reproductive health, reproductive rights and reproductive justice. The mission of the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective is to secure reproductive rights by amplifying and strengthening the collective voices of Indigenous women and women of color.

This four-day conference will include workshops and plenary sessions on topics such as birth control, senior sexuality, STDs, microbicides, gynecological health and wellness, erotica, militarism, youth sexuality, and more, all through a reproductive justice lens.

Lauren Evette from Posh Politics will be blogging from the conference.

For up to date information, please follow @evettewilliams and the hashtag #ltas2011

Light Skin Equals Light Sentencing?

2011-06-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

From our friends at Good Culture...

People talk a lot about the racism that poisons the criminal justice system, sending African-Americans to jail more often than white criminals, and with longer and harsher sentences. But what about "colorism"? If you don't know, colorism is the sub-prejudice that finds people treating people of color differently based on how light or dark their skin is. Though it's rarely talked about, colorism is a major cause for concern in courtrooms around the United States, according to a new study.

Called "The Impact of Light Skin on Prison Time for Black Female Offenders," the study found a group of Villanova professors assessing the sentences of more than 12,000 black female defendants in North Carolina. Their findings were horrifying: Even after controlling for things like prior convictions, crime severity, and thinness, women with light skin received sentences that were 12 percent shorter on average than dark-skinned women. Lighter women also had their actual time served reduced by about 11 percent.

Obama Reaches out to the BABIES : Get on the Call

2011-06-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

The White House has announced that THIS FRIDAY, July 1st at 12:00 PM EDT, Obama Administration Officials will host a conference call de-briefing the President’s “100 Youth Roundtables” Initiative, outlining his “How to Make Change” youth summer series, and discussing ongoing events on youth employment and entrepreneurship. President Obama will also hop on the call.

For more information on the call, please email laurenevette@gmail.com or RSVP here.

Lupe Fiasco vs. Bill O'Reilly

2011-06-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

Hip hop continues to impact the political world. As we move into a high-powered election season, each lyric can make a difference. Keep in mind this is #foxnews.

What do you think about this exchange?

LAWD they Trying to KILL Michelle O: NOT POSH

2011-04-19T14:24:00.001-07:00

The Washington Post just reported that:

A White House plane carrying Michelle Obama came dangerously close to a 200-ton military cargo jet and had to abort its landing at Andrews Air Force Base on Monday as the result of an air traffic controller’s mistake, according to federal officials familiar with the incident.

Ultimately controllers at Andrews feared the cargo jet would not clear the runway in time, said the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak for their agencies....

Please pray for Our #FLOTUS

About Michelle: As First Lady, Mrs. Obama looks works on the issues close to her heart — supporting military families, helping working women balance career and family, encouraging national service, promoting the arts and arts education, and fostering healthy eating and healthy living for children and families across the country. She is a mother, lawyer, and human rights activist in her own RIGHT! We Michelle O. Read More

Niecy Nash: Why Couldn't there be a Black Bridesmaid?

2011-04-19T10:38:00.000-07:00

The newest comedy about a group of girls getting ready for their best friend's wedding is a hot topic right now. Named, The Bridesmaids, it looks like a great movie. Like most things I see without my own skin reflection... my only question is, why couldn't there have been a BLACK bridesmaid...? Niecy Nash would've fit right in. Well at least, I think so.

Regardless, I am looking forward to the movie. Not to mention I was just asked to be a bridesmaid in my Line Sister's wedding. I will definitely be taking notes on pink "flower-scented" paper.

See the trailer below.

Beyonce's Obesity Campaign Video

2011-04-13T07:47:00.000-07:00

Beyonce teams up with Michelle Obama for Obesity Campaign

Hair Weaves found to contribute to Black Female Baldness

2011-04-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

One thing that has continuously pissed me off was the emergence of the $50.00 hair weave shops. I am not mad because I am against weaves though, my opinion is quite contrary.

There have been times when I have personally paid over $200 for a hair weave and have been very pleased with the result. Compliments come from every direction, but natural hair continues to grow, and I look fabulous. Furthermore, for the life of me, I can't see paying $50.00 and getting the same result. It boggles my mind, its like a $5,000 Audi. These things just don't exist...

Well regardless of my opinions, these shops have spread like a freaking "hair-pandemic" across the City if Atlanta. It may not be a matter of public health, but a new CNN/Health.com report shows it may be a matter of tress health - especially for African American women.

A few days ago, CNN and Health.com reported that weaves and braids may contribute to a type of permanent hair loss that appears to be common among black women. The story continues on to say that: More than one-quarter of the 326 black women who participated in the study had hair loss on the top of their scalp, and of those women, 59 percent had signs of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), a poorly understood form of baldness that begins at the crown of the head and leads to scarring. For many years, CCCA was known as “hot comb alopecia” because it was attributed to the use of hot combs to straighten curly hair. That appears to be a misnomer. Neither hot comb treatments nor chemical relaxers, which were used by more than 90 percent of the study participants, were linked with CCCA in the study, but braids, weaves, and other so-called traction hairstyles that tug at the scalp were.... Read more

With the reduced quality, price, and service at the $50.00 weave shop I cannot help but wonder what is going on under those braids. If I was a client, I probably wouldn't even ask. Bloggers Coco and Creme chronicled their experience at the shop in their blog. Needless to say they weren't too pleased. Read more here.

Sadly, this would not be the first time that a process used to enhance personal appearance wasn't the best for personal health. Furthermore this article will NOT change the number of black women that get weaves, but it at least makes us think more before the next time we get our hair braided/weaved. I urge black women to do their research when choosing a weave specialist and a healthy hair stylist. Contrary to popular belief, they can be the same person!

Olympian Carl Lewis to Run for Senate

2011-04-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

Same thing. Different Person.

Another Celebrity/Influencer/Athlete announces their run for office. This time, it's Olympian Carl Lewis confirming his run for NJ Senate. Yahoo News and AP reports "Lewis has called a 2 p.m. news conference in Burlington County to announce his "political plans." His advisory, issued Sunday night, contained no specific details. However, a party official speaking on condition of anonymity so as not to upstage the 49-year-old Lewis, says the civic activist and four-time medalist plans to run in the 8th legislative district."

Am I the only one who feels like this is comingout of NO-WHERE ? For his sake, I hope there are no steroid scandals on the way... or hookers .... or illegimate children... Just sayin....

Yahoo! Top 10 Trends that Never Die: The EDITED VERSION

2011-04-04T16:01:00.001-07:00

Yahoo! News always has interesting features when you go on their search engine site. Today one caught my eye and I decided to repost it on my blog. What is it you ask? TRENDS that NEVER die! Frugal fashionistas EVERYWHERE need to read this article. Not only can you find great staples now, but if they are of quality you can have them for even more years to come. Think of your daughter wearing your vintage leather bomber jacket or ankle boots? The possibilities are endless...

One trend I did disagree with was the baby doll dress (HATED IT!). Why? Because they aren't for everyone unless you are petite and will remain that way for the rest of your life... Yes, this is true for some, BUT not the majority of America...or the world for that matter. They tend to look UBER young on most people, especially if the dress color is pink. A second major flaw is they way baby doll dresses look on a woman's midsection. Girlfriend if your stomach is not flat, then you may look preggers (and no one wants this unless you are preggers).

POSH would like to ADD WELL TAILORED wide leg trousers to the list. They look good with a tshirt and a long necklace for casual, a suit jacket and blouse for business, or a tight sequined top and diamond studs for party. Good fabric never goes out of style and they come in all of them from tweed to jean to cotton. They look good on all sizes and the iterations of these pants are ENDLESS and UBER FUN!

Add WELL TAILORED wide leg trousers, and I think this list is complete.

Read the article

Conversations of Civic Engagement: Atlanta KEEP TALKING

2011-03-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended Civic Engagement: A Conversation with Michael Blake, Associate Director for The White House Office of Public Engagement, an event with arguably one of the most influential young political leaders who looks like me. He’s sharp, he’s 28, he’s black.

Impressive right?

Like everyone else in Atlanta, I went to Loews Hotel to see what this “conversation” would be like. The ambiance was as expected and one thing impressed me as soon as I walked through the door: the audience. It wasn’t made up of the usual suspects.

Amber Nicole of Democratic Party, Lauren Evette, Ms. Posh, and Jo Writer

I saw Caucasian lobbyists who work tirelessly everyday for ACLU and other progressive orgs, young feisty African American woman who shop til they drop but also fight for reproductive rights, lected officials from all levels of government including state and municipal, members of the Atlanta’s “Black Hollywood”, and the regulars who want to be scene when a photog is in the room. This amalgamation of people in itself is a feat. Congrats to event organizers for that.

Now once I kept walking around the lobby, my level of “impressiveness” dimmed just a little.

A “conversation” can be defined in two main ways according to Merriam Websters:
(1): oral exchange of sentiments, observations, opinions, or ideas
(2): an informal discussion of an issue by representatives of governments, institutions, or groups

So which one did we witness yesterday? In my opinion, neither.

Mr. Blake talked about how Obama gave money to HBCUs; how he fought for health care. And even though most people in the room knew about these accomplishments, we patiently listened. Mr. Blake answered questions about small businesses, new technology, and sustainability. Some people listened; others walked away. To me, there wasn’t a true exchange of oral sentiments, observations, or ideas and I still don’t remember an exact “issue” being identified.

Host Committee pictured

At the end of the “conversation” attendees were given Blake’s email address to get on yet ANOTHER list serv. This was the way suggested by arguably one of the most influential young African Americans in the White House to stay engaged.

Now I must say that I appreciate Blake’s transparency. It falls right in line with the image of the Obama Administration and therefore I would expect nothing less. But as members of the power generation, I implore you to NOT STOP at just an email. Do not be satisfied because you hit the FWD button, because you “liked” the event pics on FB, or because you responded to the #hashtag. Why? Because that wasn’t all that it took to get President Barack Obama elected and that definitely will not be what it takes to KEEP HIM in office.

It’s time to redefine the word “conversation”. It’s time to redefine “civic engagement”. And this new definition begins with you.

Thank you again to the event organizers to bringing Blake to Atlanta and opening up the conversation again…

POSH spotlights Women in Office

2011-03-01T09:49:00.000-08:00

Today is March 1st and Women's Herstory Month.

We would be remiss if we didn't take the time to look at all of the women who have stepped out on a political platform and decided to run for office.

Click here to look at women in office...

According to Bing we have:
• 24 women in the executive branch
• 100 US Senators
• 435 House of Representatives
• 8 Congress Leaders
• 50 governors

Secretary of State Hilary Clinton is one of the highest ranking women in office.

The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President's chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President's foreign policies through the State Department and the Foreign Service of the United States. On January 21, 2009, Hillary Rodham Clinton was sworn in as the 67th Secretary of State of the United States.

Learn more about her job

Donna Brazile Comes to Atlanta Sunday February 27th

2011-02-25T13:34:00.000-08:00

Political Strategist Donna Brazile serves as the Keynote Speaker on Sunday, February 27, 2011 at the opening session of the Southeastern Association of Educational Opportunity Program Personnel (SAEOPP) 2011 Conference*. It seems like this is a Registration Only event.

I got wind of it because Atlanta City Council will also be presenting a proclamation to Ms. Brazile on this day as well.

All I can say is this has been a great month for Atlanta: Michelle Obama a week ago and now Donna Brazile.

*More about SAEOPP:
The Southeastern Association of Educational Opportunity Program Personnel [SAEOPP] is an eight-state southeast regional Association dedicated to the professional development and support of TRIO professionals and to the advocacy of the TRIO Movement. With membership, SAEOPP is your vehicle to become more involved in this important national effort.

The Mission of the Southeastern Association of Educational Opportunity Program Personnel, Inc. (SAEOPP) is to promote and support equal educational opportunity and access to postsecondary education. Through professional development, networking, research and advocacy, SAEOPP provides TRIO personnel and others with the necessary skills and techniques to assure that the least advantaged have equal access to higher education.

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Burger Cartoon Not Racist: Let's Move On

2011-02-16T10:15:00.000-08:00

Picture Source

The Huffington Post reports a cartoon where Michelle Obama is depicted as overweight and binging on hamburgers , Andrew Breitbart's Big Government website.

The cartoon, which also appeared on Breitbart's Big Journalism site over the weekend, references LET's MOVE, Michelle Obama's campaign to encourage healthy eating and fight obesity. In it, she is drawn with a double chin and plump cheeks. She is drawn saying, "I've stepped up my efforts to control America's eating habits by telling restaurants to lower portion sizes and fat content." While she says this, she is eating one of a plateful of hamburgers.

Some have called this depiction racist, but I am not sure why. Is it the fact that she was drawn fat, or is it the fact that she is a black woman who was drawn to be fat.... If she were eating a plate full of fried chicken and collard greens with a glass of "RED JUICE", I might agree with that statement...

But all in all, it just seems like another attempt to "spoof" the Obama's... I understand that Barack and Michelle AREN'T WHITE, but that doesn't mean that every cartoon created about them is racist.

So in the spirit of Michelle O, LET's MOVE ON!

Representative Lewis receives Medal of Honor TODAY

2011-02-15T06:49:00.000-08:00

Georgia Rep. John Lewis on Tuesday afternoon will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom the country's highest civilian honor. Lewis is one of 15 people who will be getting the award.

But for Lewis, known as a key foot soldier of the civil rights movement, the honor has a special significance because it comes from the nation's first African-American president. President Obama called him personally to let him know the news.

The 2010 honorees include former President George H.W. Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, poet Maya Angelou, billionaire investor Warren Buffett, cellist Yo-Yo Ma and sports legends Stan Musial and Bill Russell. The medal is given to individuals who make an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.

The ceremony, to be held in the East Room of the White House, can be seen live at http://www.whitehouse.gov/.

Read more

FASHIONISTAS BEWARE: CLOTHING PRICES on THE RISE

2011-02-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

BEWARE!!!!! THE SKY IS FALLING!!!!

Well, not really. But, the era of falling clothing prices is ending. That's about as bad as the sky falling, isn't it?

According to the Associated Press, clothing prices have dropped for a decade as tame inflation and cheap overseas labor helped hold down costs. Retailers and clothing makers cut frills and experimented with fabric blends to cut prices during the recession.

But as the world economy recovers and demand for goods rises, a surge in labor and raw materials costs is squeezing retailers and manufacturers who have run out of ways to pare costs.

Cotton has more than doubled in price over the past year, hitting all-time highs. The price of other synthetic fabrics has jumped roughly 50 percent as demand for alternatives and blends has risen.

Our love for fashion will not end.... therefore our pockets must continue to grow. Brace for the impact ladie and gents, start saving that money now! That's what is smart and fashionable!

Happy Political Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T07:50:00.000-08:00

Feb 14th is Valentine’s Day all around the world. For some people it’s more important than others. One’s feelings towards the holiday are usually matched with whether one has someone to share it with or not. The following cartoons below will get you in the spirit! Laugh a little. Spread politics and love!

Glad, I bought my "OBAMA" card special order

Glad he's calling his package of chocolates a STIMULUS package, and not his "other" one.

Teens across the world are sending love through their SMARTPHONES. How many love messages have you received today?

Valentine's Day wouldn't be itself if we didn't mention the love between the nation's largest political parties and its membership....

Don’t fret if you are single this Valentine’s Day. We’re pretty sure this day will come around again in about 364 more days.

Happy V-Day from POSH!

Rep Sheila Jackson Lee Disagrees with Pepsi Max

2011-02-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) took to the House floor Tuesday night to criticize what she called a "demeaning" Pepsi ad that aired during the Super Bowl.

In the ad for Pepsi Max, a black woman sitting on a park bench gets angry with her husband after an attractive, white female jogger sits down next to the couple and smiles and waves at the man.

She states: "In this month of African-American history where we’re trying to celebrate what is good and great, it certainly seems ridiculous that Pepsi would utilize this kind of humor. It was not humorous. It was demeaning — an African-American woman throwing something at an African-American male and winding up hitting a Caucasian woman."

Seeing dark - skinned "Keisha" with her weave and all through a Pepsi Max and blond haired "Becky" in her pink shirt and all is very blatant. There is no doubt that the ad is "racially" charged.

What does this mean in an era post-Obama?

SEE the most RACIST commercials in AMERICA (from AD Savvy)

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Nat'l Black HIV/AIDS DAY 2011: GET TESTED

2011-02-07T08:47:00.000-08:00

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was founded by five national organizations funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 1999 to provide capacity building assistance to Black communities and organizations. The founding five organizations are: Concerned Black Men, Inc. of Philadelphia; Health Watch Information and Promotion Services, Inc.; Jackson State University - Mississippi Urban Research Center; National Black Alcoholism and Addictions Council; and National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, February 7th of every year, is a national HIV testing and treatment community mobilization initiative targeted at Blacks in the United States and the Diaspora. There are four specific focal points: education, testing, involvement, and treatment. Educationally, the focus is to get Blacks educated about the basics of HIV/AIDS in their local communities. Testing is at the core of this initiative, as it is hoped that Blacks will mark February 7th of every year as their annual or bi-annual day to get tested for HIV. This is vital for those who are sexually active and those at high risk of contracting HIV. When it comes to community and organization leadership, getting Blacks involved to serve is another key focus. We need Black People from all walks of life, economic classes, literacy levels, shades and tones as well as communities (large and small) to get connected to the work happening on the ground in their local areas. And lastly, for those living with HIV or newly testing positive for the virus, getting them connected to treatment and care services becomes paramount.

Find HIV/AIDS events in your community

source: http://www.blackaidsday.org/

SUPERBOWL MVP could RUN for OFFICE

2011-02-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

(Reuters) - Last year's Super Bowl winning quarterback and MVO Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints says he could pursue a career in politics once his playing career is over.

Brees told Reuters that he was intrigued by the challenges of politics and that he would find such a career stimulating.

"Definitely, politics fascinates me, I find it very interesting. I guess, when you look at all the issues and certainly in the current economic times, at times you hate to see both parties going at each other like they do. "

Read more here

It seems like many crossovers are happening between sports and entertainment and politics. Is politics the new PLAN B? In my opinion - yes. Either that or reality shows.... At least coming from the entertainment/sports side, one would assume that you already have the funds to fuel your campaign.

Ah well, he seems genuine. He also has a foundation that according to the website, has committed and/or contributed more than $6,000,000 to charitable causes and academic institutions in the New Orleans, San Diego and West Lafayette/Purdue communities.

A 9 Year Old Hair Weave Story

2011-02-05T11:46:00.000-08:00

picture taken from Sesame Street video "I love my Hair"

So I was sitting at the salon earlier today looking to get cute for the weekend and next to me was a 9 year old and her mother. The 9 year old was telling her mother that she wanted to wear her hair long and that's why she wanted a weave. Her mother had 3 packs of hair sitting next to her.

I preceded to jump on my blackberry and take this incident to the social media world, posting it as a "facebook poll" and a profile tweet. Needless to say, I couldn't believe that a 9 year old was about to get a weave... And neither could many of my friends, followers, and commenter’s...

Many felt as if this little girl's weave was like a cry for help. They saw it as a bigger problem involving self esteem issues, parenting, influences from the media, and more. I have to agree. In fact I could not agree more.

This posting is not an attempt to "blast" the mother or talk about someone's parenting skills, but it is an interesting cultural conversation. Beyonce has long hair, so does Nicki Minaj, so does Miley Cyrus, and so does Willow Smith. These are the current influences for young African American girls today. So in essence , what other choice do they have?

This incident also took me to previous pictures of the "arguably" most famous "young black girls" in the world: Sasha and Malia. When President Obama initially ran for office, their hair was in braids and cornrows. Now their hair flows just as softly as MY weave (I'm well over 9 yrs old) . I'm not implying that they wear weaves. I am stating that "image" and "perception" is important within our communities-even for little girls.

As the world continues to embrace the proliferation of "personal" enhancements, this may increasingly become a problem. As parents, mothers, friends, sisters, sorors, and the like, it is our job to step out to educate these young girls. We were all young once. We all have been influenced by a magazine, television show, or picture. And even though we personally may not have the political PR machine that Beyonce and Willow Smith does, we do have personal stories, experiences, and influence.

As I got out of the chair, the young girl said: “Mommy, is mine going to be long and look like hers? Is mine going to be sew-in like hers.” For a second, I felt a twinge of guilt, helping to perpetuate an image that this young girl already wanted so bad. Her mother said: “We shall see.” The girl then turns to me and says, “you hair is so pretty, did it hurt?” and I said “No it didn’t, but your hair is pretty too.” She says, “right now? No it’s not, it’s like a …. an um… an afro”.

I say, “But afros are pretty too.”

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The FLOTUS comes to ATLANTA

2011-02-04T14:16:00.000-08:00

First Lady Michelle Obama is planning a trip to Atlanta next week to talk about childhood obesity prevention and her new "Let's Move" initiative.

Learn more on 11Alive News

Uncle Luke for Mayor in MIAMI

2011-02-04T09:07:00.000-08:00

source: http://www.courtneyluv.com/

Uncle Luke [Campbell] officially announced that he is looking for your vote this upcoming March to become the Mayor of Miami-Dade County. When asked why he was running, he stated:

"The current administration of Mayor Carlos Alvarez hasn’t created any new jobs, yet we keep these government employees who have been around for decades and aren’t doing anything. Then there’s affordable housing. People in the James E. Scott projects have been kicked out of their homes and forced to move to other parts of the county. The same has happened in other parts of the county. Places have been knocked down and never rebuilt. Folks were displaced because of politics and scandal. Instead of this massive incompetence, we need to build gated communities with security-guard entrances in the inner city. Then people would feel just as safe as those wealthier folks who live in Fisher Island and the Kendall suburbs. When I take Mr. Alvarez’s job, I’ll review the county budget with a fine-toothed comb. When I ran my record company, every year we would first go over what was making revenue for us and beef that side up. Then we would cut the areas where we were not generating revenue. The first place we looked was payroll. I’ll do the same with the county budget. I’d also address the situation at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Miami-Dade has the highest number of uninsured people in the state. We can’t allow the public hospital to crash, or we are going to have sick people in the streets. My last resort will be raising taxes. We have a long laundry list of things that need to change with the county. We need someone with vision. I believe I have the vision."

Did Luke really use the phrase "massive incompetence"? Um, I digress....

Many people use the term, don't talk about it, be about it. Mr. Campbell definitely follows this example and mantra. Now, if I were a constituent in Miami, I am not sure I would trust "Uncle Luke" as my mayor. It's not just the strippers and the bootie shakin and the liquor and the..... It's more than that. It takes a lot to run a local government system effectively, and I just hope he understands that. In a recent interview, he later compares his "run for office" to his "running a company"... I am sorry but, it is not the same thing. Trust me, I work for local City Government... I know...

Anyway, OBAMA said we do "BIG THINGS" in his State of the Union address, right? Stranger things have happened. I'm sure Luke's campaign WILL definitely be interesting.

The full interview is listed on my fellow blogger Courtney Luv's site: http://www.courtneyluv.com/

Barbara Bush and GAY MARRIAGE

2011-02-04T08:26:00.000-08:00

Former first daughter speaks on GAY MARRIAGE

Don't you just love it when politician's children step out on their own? Whether speaking for the RIGHT or the LEFT, it takes guts to speak FOR or AGAINST an entire Administration.

Some may argue being a "politician's child" is worse than a "preacher's child"

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Atlanta Mayor Meets with Rap Mogul Jay Z

2011-02-04T06:51:00.000-08:00

According to celebrity blogger, SandraRose, and AJC Buzz, Jay Z was seen smoozing with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. For some reason, I am sure that this is not their first encounter together. Working in entertainment law gives you a certain amount of connections, I would think.

The purpose of the meeting would be to discuss the possible placement of a new 40/40 Club in Atlanta. Atlanta is apparently on the rap and business mogul’s short list of locations. I love the idea, but popular concepts that work in other places, like BED, have failed in Atlanta. Even Jermaine Dupri’s restaurant, which HAD the BEST fried green TOMATOES is closed.

Anyone who lives here knows that businesses open and close in months and at any given time, one restaurant location could have had 5 different names within the last year. But, we shall see as the weeks go by. Ludacris’ Straits and Diddy’s Justin’s concepts are still holding on.

The 40/40 Club is a chain of sports bars and lounges owned by hip hop mogul Jay-Z and partners Desiree Gonzalez and Juan Pérez. The name is borrowed from the baseball term. Jay Z’s Vegas location came under fire when it went belly up about 2 and a half years ago.

Photo-J Glenn Photography

More details about the 40/40 club are forthcoming. Atlanta is listed as a "club site" on the 40/40 website with a press release about a recent partnership with Delaware North Companies.

They don’t call Kasim the “Hollywood” Mayor for nothing…. Oh wait, maybe I just call him that, whatever, same thing.

Good stuff Kasim!

STATE of the UNION ADDRESS: JAN 25

2011-01-17T07:06:00.000-08:00

Preview: The State of the Union

The REAL thing airs Jan 25th at 7pm

Xernona Clayton SPEAKS: Contentious Street Renaming Legislation in Atlanta

2011-01-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

*Exclusive Video*

The first Atlanta City Council meeting was a contentious one filled with 2.5 hours of public comment on the renaming of two small streets in downtown Atlanta. Opposition and support came from all private and public sectors throughout the City of Atlanta. At the end of the meeting, City Council members decided to send the street renaming legislation back to appropriate committees and appointed Commissions for review.

Atlanta has a strong history of renaming streets to honor those who have helped to build it. This time, opposition pointed out that street renaming was costly and was not the only option to honor influential folks. The street renaming legislation would change streets to honor icons Xernona Clayton and John Portman.

This video feed is the first of its kind showing Xernona Clayton speaking for herself. Weeks prior showcased others speaking on her behalf.

Source: CBS Atlanta

Wyclef Jean: Crooked Politician or Misunderstood Celebrity

2011-01-03T13:19:00.000-08:00

*pictured, Jean and Khatou-Chevassus, pictures Contactmusic.com and NYPost.com

According to tax filings, YELE Haiti paid Zaikya Khatou-Chevassus about $147,000 for her time as “consultant” and “vice president” of Wyclef’s “foundation.”

This salary was substantially more than her salary in 2008; also more than the charity’s president Hugh Locke received. If you didn’t know, Ms. Khatou-Chevassus is known as Jean’s “his personal assistant and rumored mistress”…

Hopefully more information comes out to clarify the tax filings found by the New York Post. As alleged as the story may seem…. Its quite believable, which is startling in the wake of a devastation such as Haiti’s.

Sadly, it looks like Mr. Jean may be a little too crooked... even for someone who wanted to be a politician.

..more info is on Karencivil.com ....

martini's up for fellow bloggers!!! @karencivil

Face of Feminism DIES: We Can DO IT!

2010-12-30T12:11:00.000-08:00

A Michigan factory worker used as the unwitting model for the wartime Rosie the Riveter poster whose inspirational "We Can Do It!" message became an icon of the feminist movement has died. Geraldine Doyle died Sunday, a spokesman for the Hospice House of Mid Michigan told AFP. She was 86. Read more from Yahoo! News

RIP Rosie!!! You were/are still the face of women's rights and FEMINISM!

you rock!

martini's up and pour a little on the ground...

iFREAK: Does your TYPE of PHONE indicate Your # of Partners?

2010-12-30T11:51:00.000-08:00

The next time a man asks for your number, you may want to double check what type of phone that he’s using to store it…it will help you find out what type of SMARTPHONE he has, and the number of sexual partners he may have had….

According to a study from OKCupid.com, Women’s Health Magazine reports that the number of sexual partners can be predicted by the TYPE of CELL PHONE one has. So who had the most????

IPhone users! The study found that IPhone users tended to have more sexual partners than blackberry and android phones in the MALE and FEMALE category. IPhone users had an average of 12 sexual partners by age 30, while android users had only 6.

IPhone users seem to be more creative, while blackberry users tend to be more business professional and conservative. What type of phone do you have?

#teamblackberry !!!

Martini's up to all my creative people :)

Read more at http://www.womenshealthmag.com/

POSH HOLIDAYS: Best to You and Yours

2010-12-24T13:05:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings from Posh Politics!! We hope you have a safe and happy holiday season! We can't wait to blog with you #in2011. Be safe. Be you. Be posh!

The Mayor's Masked Ball: ATLANTA

2010-12-20T10:59:00.000-08:00

(article and picture source- Rolling Out Magazine)

A sea of well-heeled black dignitaries, socialites and celebrities turned out at the annual Mayor’s Masked Ball at the downtown Marriott Marquis to support the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) in raising an unprecedented $1.1 million to keep black students in college.

Backed by local corporate sponsors, the city’s new mayor, Kasim Reed, hosted the gala, which was created to benefit the non-profit organization.

Pics and more can be found on rollingout.com

RED TIE SOIREE: ATLANTA

2010-12-20T10:34:00.000-08:00

The ATL Red Tie Soiree event happened last night at Aja Restaurant in Buckhead Atlanta. Over 500 up and coming tastemakers, philantropists, urban professionals, and socialites graced the place in the colored of black, white, grey, and of course RED!

Congratulations to all members of the host committee for a successful event.

A crowd shot of attendees. Yes, it was PACKED!

Lauren Evette of Posh Politics was in the building.

Click here to see event pictures on Posh Politics ATL

Martini's up for this wonderful event

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Baracks Royal Wedding Invitations LOST in the Mail

2010-12-19T11:11:00.000-08:00

According to Perez Hilton....... President Barack Obama and the First Lady were not invited to the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate. It is said to take place in front of "ordinary citizens". (Don't you just want to queue up John Legend right now?)

Here's what a St. James Palace spokesman had to say about it:
"The wedding will not be a formal state occasion since Prince William is neither the sovereign nor the heir to the throne."

And here's what a senior courtier had to say about the President's exclusion from the wedding:
"It is certainly not the case that all foreign heads of state will be excluded. The guest list is still being drawn up and could change, but as things stand it's right (to say the Obamas will not be invited)."

Perez ended the post asking should our president be invited to the wedding... The answer is yes. I also wonder if Atlanta mayor Kasim Reed was invited. I mean he talked to him around the time of his engagement...

Things that make you say HMMMM

Source of pic: PerezHilton.com

Martini's for Perez Hilton, fab blog boo!

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GoBlackBook: New Social Networking for Urban Professionals

2010-12-17T03:18:00.000-08:00

A new Website has been launched designed to introduce African-American business professionals to each other and to the benefits of social networking. GoBlackbook.com is not comparing itself to Facebook or LinkedIn. James Parker, founder and CEO of the Chicago-based tech start-up said that "African-American professionals and entrepreneurs like the idea of a networking site designed with them in mind."

GoBlackbook.com or the "Blackbook" takes social media to the next level by designing a site that has a "some of this" and a "some of that" approach for its members and great ad positioning for advertisers. It apparently is drawing attention. In less than three weeks since its debut, the site says it has signed up nearly 50,000 members.

We all need more opportunities to network... so visit the site today!

Palin in Haiti: Olive Branch, PR Scheme, or "Whor"- ish Activiities?

2010-12-16T06:43:00.000-08:00

When I originally found out about Sarah Palin going to Haiti, I wasn’t very impressed. To be specific, my exact tweet was:

Morning rant 1: According to @CNN Sarah Palin now is calling for money for Haiti? What? She is such an attention whore sometimes...

Other commentators also share my skepticism of Palin’s recent trip to Haiti. In an article on TheGrio.com, Sophia Nelson opens the question of whether or not Palin’s trip is a LARGE SCALE attempt to reach out to Black voters. In other words, is this our olive branch between black and white, soccer mom and single mom, conservative and progressive?

We all know that the Republicans are known for a world-class PR campaign to disillusion the American public as they prepare for presidential campaign after presidential campaign and this could well be step 1 in Palin’s. Then again, I am not so sure the Republicans will be backing Palin in 2012… but then again stranger things have happened.

To be honest, this kind of scares me. Haiti is a soft spot for many Black Americans, especially those of Haitian and Caribbean descent. And to see Sarah amongst family on a “humanitarian” trip to Haiti could grasp at the heart strings of some. And to those some I say keep your heart strings strong. I am not saying that Sarah Palin doesn’t care about Haiti. I’m not saying that we shouldn’t care either.

What I am saying is that a strong PR campaign, a “good-natured” trip is not enough to overcome hypocrisy, unresponsiveness, lack of experience, and the like… That’s all I’m saying.. and in case you aren't sure of my position on the trip... I'm still not impressed...

PHOTO OF THE DAY: SERENA AND HER BEDAZZLED CAST

2010-12-07T10:36:00.001-08:00

Tennis star and fashion mogul Serena Williams decorated her cast w/ Swarovski crystals. She premiered it at YSL and Vogue's "Evenings in Vogue" party in Miami on Saturday night.

Who knows maybe she will start something.....

Martini's up to Serena

Source: The Cut

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Alicia Keys is DEAD: World AIDS Day

2010-12-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

Support local celebrities taking the time to give back to the community

and help keep a child alive

When I first read P. Diddy's statement on twitter about Alicia Keys' being dead, I didn't know how to take it. And now, seeing her in a casket, as is Serena Williams, I still don't know how to take it. The message has shocked me into viewing the cause, but I am not sure if it has encouraged me to donate to it.

Through this initiative, celebrities are taking a break from digital life, and "social media", in order to raise money for AIDS research. If you would like to help bring them back to life, please donate money on http://www.buylife.org/. Other celebs involved include: Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Usher, Kim Kardashian, P. Diddy, Jennifer Hudson, Ryan Seacrest, Elijah Wood, Serena Williams, Jay Sean and more.

Great cause... so martini's up... The corpse pictures still don't settle right with me though...

What do you think?

Behind Every Great Man.....

2010-11-09T12:58:00.000-08:00

I got the cutest email yesterday....

One night President Obama and his wife Michelle decided to do something out of routine and go for a casual dinner at a restaurant that wasn't too luxurious.

When they were seated, the owner of the restaurant asked the president's secret service if he could please speak to the First Lady in private. They obliged and Michelle had a conversation with the owner.

Following this conversation President Obama asked Michelle, why was he so interested in talking to you. She mentioned that in her teenage years, he had been madly in love with her.
President Obama then said, "so if you had married him, you would now be the owner of this lovely restaurant" , to which Michelle responded, "no, if I had married him, he would now be President".

Not sure if this is an urban myth... or the truth, regardless, I know we all can agree and say, you go girl!!

POLITICAL WOMAN: GO VOTE

2010-11-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

Political Woman
by Lauren Evette Williams
(an adaptation of Phenonemal Woman by Maya Angelou)

Apathetic women wonder just where my secret lies
I’m not necessarily a great orator, a great philosopher, and my speech is not always wise
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It’s the strength of my passion
My time and dedication
My constant fight for what is right
And the hope of true female emancipation
For I am a woman
Politically
Politcal Woman, That’s Me

I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
Surrounded by other women activists
Working together towards unity
Some question our power, our validity
And still fail to completely see.
I say
It’s the fire in our eyes
The conviction of our voice
The importance of our message
And the power of our electoral choice
For we are women
Politically
And I, a Politcal Woman, That’s Me

Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I may shout. I may jump about
For I say, Why Not Women, Why Not Now
When you see my passing down the government halls
You should join me, For It ought to make u proud
I say
It's the effect of our advocacy
The mobilization of our partners
The strategy of our phone banking
And the collaboration of our efforts
For we are women
Politically
And I, a Politcal Woman, That’s Me

We've Done the WORK... NOW Go Out and VOTE!!!!

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FASHION WATCH: Michelle O

2010-10-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Politico's CLICK section reports on the fashion of Michelle Obama's campaign fashion today. Lucky magazine Editor-in-Chief Brandon Holley told POLITICO that Obama should continue her habit of wearing “young designers and affordable elegance.”

We here at Posh agree with POLITICO's report, and Holly's comment. Affordable elegance seems to be a theme throughout the fashion scene. Young designers also give others a chance to do something!

Congressional Directory, Job Opportunities, and An Insiders Guide: Make the Most out of your CBC Experience

2010-09-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

One of DC’s most anticipated weekend’s is finally here… Are you ready? It’s the CBC’s Annual Legislative Conference and all major cities in the US are a buzz with young African American professionals ready to hit the streets of DC.

Below you will find a few ways and resources to help you enjoy your CBC experience.

Be An Insider

The FAB Empire released An Insider’s Guide to the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference, also known as CBC week. This 20-page guide is complete with parties, sessions, concerts, and more!

Take the METRO

During my first summer in DC, I came across a member of the Congressional Black Caucus on the subway… so as we say, “don’t knock it until you try it”. The metro is convenient, fast, and efficient. It will take you to most places located on the CBC agenda and will save you $$$ that you can use for happy hour drinks! Learn more about WMATA here.

Be Smart… Do Your Homework and Map your Targets- CBC Directory

See the following link to all members of the Congressional Black Caucus and DO YOUR HOMEWORK! The CBC conference is only a few days, and you may not get that much face time with elected officials. Therefore your moves need to be deliberate and strategic. Find your local Congressman or Congresswoman if you don’t know them already and learn a little more about them. This will ease the conversation and get you one step closer to working next to Barack Obama.

Sign Up for LivingSocial Daily

Whether you stay in DC, vacation there, or are there just for the CBC conference, signing up for Living Social specials will allow you to enjoy the “Georgetown” side of life at a “Columbia Heights” price. For more information on Living Social, or a similar site, Groupon, click on the aforementioned links.

$$ Make some Money $$

The National Urban League is looking for people to staff their exhibit booth during the CBC week.

Dates and times include: Wednesday, 9/15/2010 1:00 pm 3:00 pm Training, Thursday, 9/16/2010 7:30 am 6:00 pm Day 1, Friday, 9/17/2010 8:00 am 6:00 pm Day 2, and Saturday, 9/18/2010 8:00 am 1:30 pm Day 3. Duties include- Greeting people, signing them up for raffles and passing out materials. This will require a significant amount of standing, smiling and greeting. The ideal person would be outgoing and willing to engage attendees as they pass by the booth. If you are interested, please send an email to Michael Thompson at mthompson@nul.org include any relevant experience, bio and/or resume. These are paid positions!

Martini’s up for the CBC Conference!!

POSH FASHION: DIY

2010-09-02T06:53:00.000-07:00

This picture is an example from Louis Vuitton

Have you ever broken the clasp on your favorite necklace and wondered what to do with it? Better yet, has this happened at work?

Well Celebrity Blogger and Atlanta Socialite Necole Bitchie and Fashion Blogger Black Von D have the solution to you by making a scarf necklace. In the posting, Black Von D goes step by step to let you know how to turn a broken string into a fashionable future. Whether you are walking down the halls of the White House or on your way to class, this is too POSH.

LUVS IT! Ladies Let’s DIY!

See more here…

Martini’s up for redefining fashion
Martini’s up for Necole Bitchie

BRANDY to WIN DANCING with the STARS

2010-08-31T07:40:00.000-07:00

Dancing With the Stars has announced their New LINE UP....

We are OFFICIALLY on #teamBRANDY for this SEASON!!!

See who else made the cut

Martinis up for Brandy.. by the wayy, are her nails WHITE in that pictures? (white nail polish is NOT posh)

HALLEs new BOB: POSH or NOT?

2010-08-27T09:03:00.001-07:00

Halle is sporting a new bob in the recent cover of Vogue. Is it a NEW look for a NEW woman?

What are your thoughts? Is this POSH or NOT?

The DEA hires EBONICS TRANSLATORS

2010-08-23T19:33:00.000-07:00

MSNBC News today reports that the DEA is looking to hire Ebonics translators throughout their SouthEast offices. These offices include those in Atlanta, Washington, New Orleans, Miami and the Caribbean. DEA officers have already served as translators on some cases, but it seems like this is one of the first times these translators have actually been targeted....which begs one to wonder, is this a new type of affirmative action?

So in other words, the DEA is looking for snitches? Snitches who continue to enable others (African Americans, more specifically) to speak in broken English? People say it over and over again, but topics like these CONTINUE to be news throughout the 20th CENTURY RACIALIZED AMERICA. Go Figure...

However you feel about it, though, this is a recession, and hey… everyone needs a job right?

According to the Urban Dictionary, here are a few tips that may help you learn about Ebonics and/or become a translator for the FEDS:

RULE 1: In any English word with a contraction, eliminate the apostrophe and any letters after it.

For example, to answer the question:Is it alright if I rollerskate through the campus ?

You would say: IT OK, instead of: Yes it’s alright

RULE 2: In a word ending in "ore," eliminate everything after the first "o" and add an apostrophe.

For example:
English) I won't tell you again, please shut the door.
Ebonics) I ain tellin you no mo', shet de do' !!

READ more about Ebonics…and work for the FEDS...

What do you feel about the DEAs new Human Resources announcements??

Wyclef Jean Meets with Haiti's President

2010-08-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

(as reported by the Associated Press)

Haitian President Rene Preval met with presidential hopeful Wyclef Jean for more than two hours on Thursday, touching off a new round of speculation as to whether the singer will be allowed to run in Nov. 28 elections.

Jean told The Associated Press that he felt the exchange with Preval was positive.

"I feel good," the hip hop artist and former Fugees frontman said. "I feel that the president that I voted for five years ago is the same person that was sitting in front of me today."

read more
______________________________

The original list of presidential candidates, to be released this past Tuesday, has yet to be announced.

It appears that Wyclef still has a chance to get on the list...and we all know sometimes, that is the hardest part!

Martinis Up to Wyclef!

Happy BDAY Hip Hop: IS VorD Dead?

2010-08-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

The musical genre called hip hop has influenced every part of life from music, to fashion, to education and academics, to POLITICS. Many rap lyrics have received both praise and reproach within the political realm and as society changes, hip hop lyrics manifest themselves through each change.

SO TODAY POSH SAYS HAPPY BIRTHDAY HIP HOP!

According to HipHopdx.com, today is the genre's birthday, starting on on August 11, 1973 when DJ Kool Herc threw his first jam in The Bronx, New York. There's also a sale by Sedgwick & Cedar in honor of the day too!

So run out, pick up your chains, addidas, and VOTE or DIE* shirts, because it's Hip Hop's Bday!!!
Read More of the Story Here

*Side Note:

The VOTE or DIE was a campaign originally announced by P. Diddy in September 2004 when he vowed to make voting "sexy" through a non-profit called Citizen Change. Where is this initiative now? The most current article we can find says the idea is DEAD?

photog: Getty Images/Scott Gries

Ms. Desiree Rogers: The Fate of Ebony and Jet Magazine is in Her Hands

2010-08-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

According to the Washington Post:

"Desirée Rogers, the former White House social secretary, has been named chief executive officer of Johnson Publishing, the company announced Tuesday.

Rogers will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Chicago-based firm that publishes Ebony and Jet magazines. Linda Johnson Rice, the daughter of company founder John H. Johnson -- who died in 2005 -- will continue as chairman.

As CEO, Rogers will focus on "aligning core business strategies for all brands," according to a company statement. That's a rather opaque way of saying that she will have to figure out how to take the legacy of Johnson Publishing, founded in 1945, and transform it into something viable...."

--------------------

Not a bad fall back plan Ms. Desiree! And if you start getting people to buy Ebony and Jet Magazine again for content, rather than the Beauty of Week, people will forget all about that White House Dinner thing....

Essence Magazine: Black Hairstyles, Black Women, WHITE Fashion Editor

2010-07-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

So I received a tweet today that read:

@EvetteWilliams why am i learnin bout this on #cnn & not poshpolitics? Essence Mag defends choice of white fashion dir http://bit.ly/aQYLKD

So I answered:

LMAO. @pauljunior I read that today and wanted to post that mess but didn't have time... Good looking out! http://bit.ly/aQYLKD

So, yes. Like everyone else glued to their blackberry’s this morning, I was a little alarmed when I read the headline off of my RSS feed. A white editor at Essence Magazine-one of the most quintessential African American fashion and lifestyle publications in the continental United States of America. From my initial reading of the article, one word came to mind: interesting…. Interesting enough for @cnn to cover, because they seem to BE ALL OVER RACE this season and interesting enough for me to carve out some time to write about it.

Essence editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray had a feature article on theGrio.com today (and other arenas) about her decision to hire a white fashion editor for the magazine. Unfortunately, instead of speaking directly about the issues, she “skirted” around them – no pun intended.

When speaking of why she hired a White editor (Elliana Placas) she said:

I got to see firsthand her creativity, her vision, the positive reader response to her work, and her enthusiasm and respect for the audience and our brand. As such, I thought she'd make an excellent addition to our team. And I still do. This decision in no way diminishes my commitment to black women, our issues, our fights. I am listening and I do take the concerns to heart.

When refuting her African American readership’s concern she responded with what we “should care about”:

“the things I think should most upset people and inspire boycotts and Facebook protests, often seem to go relatively unnoticed. Like when Essence conducted a three-part education series this year on the plight of black children falling through the cracks in under-performing schools. Crickets. When we reported on the increase in sex trafficking of young black girls in urban communities? Silence. When our writers investigated the inequities in the health care services black women receive? Deadly silence”…….ETC

In my opinion, as a public figure, issuing an official statement, Murray did a good job but as an influential African American woman with an inherent obligation to correct representation of African American people (say that backwards five times), Murray did not do so well. Isn’t it your job to bring issues to light and to “make people care”?

Working in media, fashion, AND politics, it's hard to guess when someone chooses to “care” about an issue and furthermore, why they should. Yes. Race is a hot issue that has lead to statements like: race is annoying me, since the election of President Barack Obama, but it is also this same issue that elected him as well. It's the same issue that brought Africans to America, started the slave trade, historically black colleges and universities, black hair care products, the NAACP, Affirmative Action, and dare I say it- ESSENCE Magazine.

To allude that African Americans do not have a right to be outraged that a White woman is over the Fashion department of an African Americana magazine is a little irresponsible and almost disrespectful. We all agree that education and sex trafficking within the black community are alarming topics that should be addressed in our communities, but to say that the same readership that opposes a White editor at Essence does not oppose those topics too, is a little ill-informed. Have you searched for Facebook petitions and/or groups on these issues…. There are tons…. Despite the privacy settings, you can still search for them. I encourage you to!

At the end of the day… this decision is about MONEY. I asked the same twitter friend:

@pauljunior isnt a white editor of @essencemagazine like havin a white president of a black sorority?

And the answer is yes, it is the same thing. Having a White fashion director not only diversifies the staff and scope of the magazine, but it helps to bring credibility to its fashion department. I am not saying “White is Right”, but what I am saying is that “White is Green”. Editor-in-Chief Murray and I agree on “the lack of visibility of African-American women throughout the ranks of the fashion industry, which is overwhelmingly white.” But her solution to this problem was clearly to keep the “overwhelmingness” going.

I disagree. But hey, I’m not the Editor in Chief of @EssenceMagazine.

Martini’s up for a Black Magazine making headlines.

(that helps to bring in $$$ too)

Photog credit: Frank Micellotta/Getty Images

WHITE SKIN, ANIME EYES, and RED KOOLAID

2010-07-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

I'm glad someone was beginning to notice the change in skin tone other than me. According to a recent news article in Yahoo! Vaseline is advertising a new skin whitening creme, targeted towards Indian men. Now this is nothing new, we all know about Michael Jackson and Sammy Sousa. We have all seen retouched pictures of celebrities...

It is just a little alarming to me that there are people actually profitting off of this. It's actually sad. What would one do if their little son or daughter came home begging for whitening cream to "look like someone else"? Is this a new trend a long with LADY GAGA cartoon eyes? One may laugh, but it seems just as ridiculous. Does this process reduce what is "naturally" there? Does it actually remove melanin from one's skin? Who know's... Obama could have been 4 shades darker until now and then decided to "drink the koolaid"..

Not to say that Obama isn't "black enough" per se. But would you say he is "white enough"? These issues surrounding vanity, race, skin color, and more are what seem to make the world go around. No matter how many Dr. Phil marathons, or "feel good episodes" of Friends, and/or new "tv" therapy-reality shows, we all seem to continuously hate ourselves in the end? Does that mean self-hate is inevitable?

Martinis down for skin whitening creams. That stuff CANNOT be SAFE!

POSH POLITICS: WHAT about the Tea Party

2010-07-16T06:05:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, the NAACP passed a resolution denouncing racist elements within the Tea Party movement. Responding to the resolution, Tea Party Express chairman Mark Williams lashed out against the civil rights group, claiming that "they make more money off of race than any slave trader ever." Williams continued his assault last night on CNN, telling host Roland Martin, "Racists have their own movement. It's called the NAACP."

This excerpt was taken from Political Correction. Org

Read the rest of the article here: http://politicalcorrection.org/blog/201007150012

No martinis for this one. Racism in the 21st century is so not posh!

pictured here is the newly elected president of the NAACP, attributed to AP File

CAMPAIGN AD: Sarah "Imma Be A Mama Grizzly" Palin (Facebook name)

2010-07-09T07:28:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin put out a new video through the SARAHPAC that speaks about grizzly bears, mothers, and politics, through borrowed words from a PRO-Lifer, Susan B Anthony, speech.

Sarah targets mothers by saying, that they specifically are sick and tired of “US politics.” She states that mothers are the next power generation. So, as a single woman without kids should I feel powerless?

Some of the things that come out of Sarah Palin’s mouth really makes me unoptimistic about the future of women in politics in this country. Where in the world does she get funding? Why would you pay for a video about grizzly bears if it does nothing for wildlife conservation?

Other websites feature commentary where conservative women enjoy the video because its allusions to "spending" and the woman being the major "spender" in the hous hold needing to control this. Liberals continue to talk about the lack of diversity and ridiculousness of the language.

My opinion still remains: the fact that Americans, especially women, are still paying attention to Sarah Palin scares me.

No martinis for this one.

MARY J BLIGE GETS a G.E.D.: EDUCATION IS SO POSH

2010-07-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

First FANTASIA…. Now Mary*?

BET (that is BLACK ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION) may need to start a category for the most “educated” hip hop star… No really…. A lot of lyricists and singers graduated from some of the top schools in the country…So don’t be fooled because they are now tatted up, with their pants hanging to their knees, and “ebonic-ish” filled lyrics.

Word on the street is that Mary is enrolling at Howard. Figures, had to be a black school #imjustsayin. Can we say ADMISSIONS AMBASSADOR? Or better yet, someone say FREE HOMECOMING CONCERT! What’s next? RUSH into a sorority? No comment….

According to the Washington Post, though Mary said on TV that she was accepted at Howard University, school officials DISPUTE this claim. UM, well those who have went to black schools and been through the admissions process, may understand this discrepancy...

Did you even know Mary J Blige didn’t graduate high school? BTW http://www.starplus.com/ says Mary dropped out in her junior year. But I think we all knew about this occurrence when her song talked about “HATERATION in this dancery”.

Read more here

Congrats Mary
Martinis up for GEDs!

*do you remember old school Mary?

POSH FASHION: MiCHELLE OBAMA Look BOOK 2010

2010-07-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

For all you Michelle O fanatics out there... Don't worry, you are DEFINITELY not alone. She is not only a hardworking woman, a loving mother, daughter, and wife and a budding humanitarian, but she is UBER POSH + POLITICAL....

So be FANATICAL.. SHE is worth it!

Selected photos from a 2010 Look Book from New York Times that celebrate all that is Michelle O..

Straight off the Red Carpet

Orange... Such a great color on darker skin tones and commands attention an ANY House/Senate Chamber Floor

I love a POWER woman who can be a BOSS in flats!

Click here to see more

MArtinis up!

CELEBS in the AMERICAN FLAG:: QUICK POSH POLITICS

2010-07-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

The Huffington Post features a slideshow of famous celebs adorning the American Flag... Here's an example with Ms. Posh herself- BEYONCE...

Interestingly ENOUGH, she is the only celeb of color featured in this slide show. Either another famous Black person wasn't available, we are still waiting for the Obama effect to grow again, or...... a black person wouldn't be caught dead in this get up??

That's for you to decide..

As for this pic... LOVE IT! VERY POSH

Happy BDAY America!

See more: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/04/celebs-in-american-flag-b_n_633990.html?ir=Style

THIS JUST IN: MICHELLE OBAMA rocked a FLAG HALTER?

martinis up!!

INTERNS ROCK: FREE STUFF in DC

2010-06-11T11:07:00.001-07:00

Information on FREE STUFF in DC: GET it THIS WEEK

:::: for more information visit: http://www.internsrockdc.com/ :::::

Who

Anyone Interning in Washington, D.C.

What

Receive discounts at participating restaurants, museums, tour companies, music venues and retail stores in the DC Metro area.

When

June 11-18, 2010

Why

Because Washington DC has more interns each summer than any other city... and THEY ROCK!

How

To receive discounts, interns must present an InternsRock! wristband at participating vendors. Wristbands are available at The Washington Center.

Why Interns Rock!

Did you know that over 20,000 interns come to Washington DC each year? The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars (TWC) not only brings 1,500 of those interns to test drive their careers in DC, but they understand the impact all interns have on business throughout Washington DC. Interns provide local businesses, nonprofits and government agencies with their time, energy, new ideas and a pipeline to a future workforce. InternsRock! is a way to show appreciation to interns, their hard work and their contributions.

fyi there are retails discounts on this list! VERY POSH!

martinis up for {capitol hill} INTERNS ROCK

The Life of a POSH Capitol Hill Intern v1

2010-06-10T07:02:00.000-07:00

Greetings POSH readers.

I am an intern on Capitol Hill now..

I have been at my fellowship for the past three weeks; its felt like 1 week. Time flies, and it practically flies @ lightening speed on the Hill. I've had various meetings on the Hill including a committee meeting on foreign affairs, meeting with the Democratic Policy Committee, and several government Unions and professional organizations. But that's not the "blogworthy" part of my experience. Everyone does that.

What I have found "blogworthy" is in essence, confidential. Its GS classified (like everything else on the Hill) but this wouldn't be a good blog if I didn't expose it. Hence the following narrative:

So as a new intern I have been networking, meeting people, etc. And I've done it so much so that I have been "tapped" for a secret society. A secret society of interns that dates back to when the very House Reps ans Senators that we know of now started on the Hill (maybe?). A society of aspirants all with the look of political involvement, social takeover, and legal ascension on their BROW. Some call them SLAVES because of their dedication, some call them FLIPpin crazy, but however you see it, they (or we) have exposure to the Hill. You don't. They are ONE STEP closer to a dream of representing the most powerful nation in the world in some form or fashion (VOGUE).

I hear, members of this society are found throughout the hill, but I am still investigating the whereabouts of its membership. Now one thing I didn't mention about this group is their demographic make-up. Word on the street is that they are pre-dominately Black. My connection to the group is.

Its not uncommon for people in similar experiences to bond together. These groups are found throughout life like sororites and fraternities, book clubs, PTAs, and the like. I even heard of a secret society at the University of Pittsburgh when I attended… word on the street was I was a member of that one too…..

I will keep you posted on the society though. I hope Obama’s at the induction…

martinis up for the District
- PP

NYE Plans: Let's ask Desiree Rodgers... (Message from President Added)

2010-01-01T18:17:00.000-08:00

2010 is here and it is time to celebrate!!!

CBS News ran an interesting article about how the American first family usually celebrates NYE. For the past week the Obama family has been in Hawaii and has managed to stop by the local mall and see Avatar.

The Clintons usually check into a hotel, and George W is reportedly too old to stay up to see the ball drop.

Read more of the article

Champagne glasses up!

We look forward to blogging with you! 2010 is going to be #soposh!

New Years Resolution: I will NO LONGER ENVY MICHELLE OBAMA (repeat in the mirror)

2009-12-28T19:48:00.000-08:00

In order to fully bring in the new year.... we have to get rid of "old" problems. With the popularity of Steve Harvey's book, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, CNN's Black in America, and a lot of other messages about engagements, wedding reality shows, and the LIKE, Black Women find themselves thinking: WHY AM I NOT MARRIED?

- special aired on ABC NEWS

In 2010, we, as Black women need to worry less about the ring on the finger and more on the dreams in their hearts!

The funny thing is history only repeats itself.

During slavery Black women were repeatedly seperated from their Black husbands. And there was a "shortage" of sorts then. Hence the emegence of the torn black family-strong black woman-weak black man phenomenon.

So its not new.... and to be frank- we made through slavery, and we will make it through the 21st century. In my opinion, I do not have to think like a man- I am a woman. That is what makes me special and unique. That is what makes men want me!

The focus of this blog has ALWAYS been fashion, politics, and women... and to be honest all those topics come together in this posting. This to me, is one of the many reasons we have so FEW BLACK WOMEN in POLITICS. This is the new "feminine mystique". Several women put down fabulous political careers for the sake of a husband. Several women refuse to "be too independent" by buying their own Louis Vuitton bag, Gucci shoes, or house for that matter....

Many women love and admire Michelle Obama, but also secretly envy her for finding Barack before we could...

But when it comes down to it, living our lives like this is not smart or fashionable.

#in2010 (for my twitter connects out there) again, let's focus less on the ring on our finger. Let's focus on our careers, let's focus on our children, let's focus on our education, and more importantly, let's focus on us!

Remember, we will always be a man's rib.

Martini's up for focusing on us in the new year!

Martini's up for The Feminine Mystique (by Betty Friedan, one of my FAVORITE books of ALL TIME)

Barack Sent me an Email today, it READ:

2009-12-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

Lauren --

Although it's Christmas Eve, I wanted to share some exciting news: The Senate just passed a historic health reform bill.

In all the back and forth, it's easy to lose sight of what this incredible breakthrough really means. But consider this: This Christmas, there are millions of Americans without health insurance who risk losing everything if they get sick.

There are mothers and fathers who wonder how they'll provide for their children because an illness has wiped out their savings. There are small business owners who worry that they'll have to lay off a long-time employee because the cost of insurance is rapidly rising.

If we finish the job, all this can change. We will have beaten back the special interests who have for so long perpetuated the status quo. We will have enacted the most important piece of social policy since the Social Security Act in the 1930s, and the most important health reform since Medicare in the 1960s.

In Decembers to come, millions more will have access to affordable coverage. Parents will have the security and stability of knowing their insurance can't be revoked at a moment's notice. And the skyrocketing costs plaguing our small businesses will be brought under control.

When you make calls, write letters, organize, this is the change you're making -- a better life for your family and for men and women in every state.

There is still more to do before I can sign reform into law -- a last round of negotiations and final votes in the Senate and the House -- and I'm counting on your help every step of the way. But for now, I hope that as you celebrate this holiday season, you remember that the work you are doing is making our union more perfect, one step at a time. For that, I am grateful to you.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays,

President Barack Obama

P.S. -- Organizing for America supporters are signing a note of appreciation to all the senators who have worked so hard to make this possible. I hope you'll join them:

http://my.barackobama.com/SenateLetter

Martini's up for "nearly" universal health care. Our work has just begun!

BTW... we're going to sign the letter!

Sex and the City 2: It's NOT politics, but its Definitely POSH

2009-12-23T08:15:00.001-08:00

The trailer isn't enough? Here are some pics as well!

Think MARTINIS not DEATH THREATS: First Lady Threatened

2009-12-23T07:46:00.000-08:00

Essence.com today reports that Kristy Lee Roshia (on the left) will appear in court today for threatening the First lady, Michelle Obama.

According to Essence.com:

"In one of many rambling phone calls Roshia made to the Secret Service office in Boston, she threatened to "blow away" the first lady. As far back as 2004 she told agents "although her mission is to assassinate the president she has no desire to hurt him," according to an affidavit obtained by the Associated Press. "

Excuse me, but what happened to the "Sista code"? The Estrogen bond? Are you serious? The Obama Administration is working to do as much for women's rights as it is for everyone else. Not even pointing out that our First Lady has two lovely daughters who would be grow up motherless if the unthinkable happened.

I'm glad to see Secret Service is doing their job, but I am sad to see how much they have to do it. I don't want to say it but..RACISM is NOT DEAD.

The current economic downturn and the holidays also bring out the worst in people.... if everyone drank a martini a day. I don't think this would be a problem!

SENATE BILL passes MAJOR HURLE: From the Huffington Post

2009-12-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

below is commentary from Ryan Grim (ryan@huffingtonpost.com).

READ and tell us what you think!

The United States took a major step closer to the rest of the industrialized world shortly after 1:00 a.m. on Monday morning, voting 60-40 to move forward on far-reaching health care reform that will provide subsidies to million of Americans to purchase health care -- and require all citizens to purchase health insurance or prove that they can not afford to do so. (More on the details of the bill here.)

The vote, which was taken in an unusual fashion, with senators seated and voting from their desks, split along party lines, with all 40 Republicans voting no. Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) rose and announced her nay vote with an affect of regret in her voice.

The bill does not include a public health insurance option that would compete with private insurers in order to keep them honest. The proposal does include tighter regulations on the insurance industry than currently exist, but the law would not create any new regulatory agencies and would leave policing the new rules to individual states, which have shown an inability to combat the major insurers. Those companies will have billions more in resources if the Senate bill becomes law.

The Senate still faces two more procedural votes, but Monday morning's vote indicates that the bill is headed for negotiations with the House of Representatives. The House bill includes a public option and more generous subsidies, among other major differences, but Sen. Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) and Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) both said Monday morning that if the bill that emerges from the conference committee contains significant alterations, they may again decide to filibuster it.

"I think it has all the elements that we've been talking about from the beginning," she said. "It insures almost all Americans. It lowers costs. It provides a huge opportunity to begin to pay for quality and not just quantity of care. It includes lots of investments in health and wellness and preventive medicine. I mean, I'm not sure most people understand what's underlying all of this and I think it's very exciting. It's a big day." ......

Link to article

Martini's Up! Drink, be merry, we might all be closer to healthcare!

Reflections, Dark Chocolate, and Cadillacs: Atlanta Mayor Race 2009 the Day After

2009-12-02T09:07:00.000-08:00

The day after an election is often one of reflection. There has to be one loser and one winner, and several questions that surround how each candidate reached that final position.

Today, is the day after a long, hard, and slightly controversial local election. Yesterday our City Council was finally complete with the selection of Ceasar C Mitchell as City Council President, Aaron Watson as Councilmember Post 2 at Large, Alex Wan as Councilmember for District 6, and Kasim Reed as Mayor.... And in case you favor the Blind Side of things, like Sandra Bullock, and have been ignoring local news stations, let me enlighten you: all of the winners are minorities. All of them are Black except Alex Wan who is Asian.

Many political pundits, Atlanta residents, and current elected officials alike tried to deny the fact that the City of Atlanta was deep in racial politics , but yesterday's results obviously reaffirm our reality. A half Black-half White President, (who is often still called "Mr" in several arenas and not given his proper title), does not solve America's race problems and neither did Mary Norwood (who according to her commercial is a Republican who voted for Obama). Mary also said she didn't need a Lincoln Navigator in her commercials as well, but I digress....(and so did she because that had nothing to do with the mayor’s race)

During the campaign season, I heard jokes like: Your President may be Black, but my Mayor's going to be White. Though these were made in fun, there is honest truth within them. I cannot lie as a Black American and Atlanta resident I am proud to say my President’s name is Barack Hussein Obama and my Mayor’s name is Mohammed Kasim Reed.

My President is Black and so is my Mayor- very Black if you want to be specific. The fact that Reed will be one of the darker skinned mayors in Atlanta, gives dark chocolate sisters like me some hope! Atlanta proudly stood together to keep a 40yr long tradition alive, while breaking down an even uglier COLORIZED tradition with traces back to slavery.

There is a debatable statement in public administration and political science theory that states that having minorities in office will have a positive impact on the minority groups in which they represent. With 2 great examples in our President and newly elected mayor, I cannot wait to see if this statement is true. Not just because I am anticipating more support for Reed's recreational centers, Kwanza Hall's 4am club legislation or for Obama's healthcare bill, but because I am sick and tired of being blamed for being proud to be Black.

For years and years, the majority has fought long and hard to keep the majority in power. Whites had fought to keep whites in power, they have voted strictly on color lines, and now that we have a chance to do the same we are racist? We are prejudice? Black people do not have the ability to be prejudice because we do not have the capability to conflict a certain amount of power on those we are being prejudice to.

So in conclusion, I am not recommending that Blacks go out and vote on color lines. I am however recommending that we all be proud on this day.

We should reflect, just as we do on every day after an election. Though I did not support Mayor Reed in the beginning of our election season, I did support what he, himself represents- which is ME. A Black person working to make a difference through public service and public office.

So today, as I reflect, I see great possibilities in the City of Atlanta. I see great collaboration between the Black Mecca of the South and the White House.

And last, but not least, as I reflect, I see ME.

Congratulations Atlanta!

Dark Chocolate Martini's Up!

ATLANTA Get Involved: It's so posh

2009-06-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

::June Events to HELP you GET INVOLVED and STAY INVOLVED::

Reimagining Philanthropy in Hard Times: How Business & Non-Profits Can Keep Atlanta Strong
When: Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Where: Commerce Club
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $27.00 per person, plus service charge and sales tax

11:30 a.m. Registration & Networking
12:00 p.m. Luncheon & Panel Discussion

Moderated by: Raymond King, Senior Vice President for community and governmental affairs for SunTrust

Panelists:
Penelope McPhee, President of The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation
Michelle Nunn, CEO of Points of Light Institute, and Co-founder of HandsOn Network
Alicia Philipp, President of The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, Inc.

Please make reservations by email: events@thecommerceclub.org

Justice Taking Root
Who: Southern Center for Human Rights 4th Annual Atlanta Benefit
When: Thursday, June 18, 2009
Where: LOFT at Castleberry Hill, 170 Northside Drive, Atlanta, GA 30313
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m
Cost: Tickets $25/ free valet parking/ cocktail attire

Dance, eat, drink, network and celebrate the work of the Southern Center for Human Rights at the 4th annual benefit party, Justice Taking Root, on Thursday, June 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the LOFT at Castleberry Hill, 170 Northside Drive, Atlanta, GA 30313.

Visit www.schr.org/action/attend/atlanta to buy your ticket or to become a sponsor today. For more information please contact Moki Macias at mmacias@schr.org or 404-688-1202

Education Panel Discussion
Who: Business to Business Magazine
When: June 23, 2009
Where: Georgia-Pacific Auditorium, 133 Peachtree Street, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Time: 7:30am – 9:15a.m.
Cost: Seats: $35

Business to Business is holding its annual education panel discussion to assess how Georgia is doing in three critical areas that connect to strong education systems and identify what more needs to be done to improve education in Georgia now. The three key areas to be discussed are: Early Learning, Recruitment & retention of Quality Teachers and Effective School Board Governance.Expert Panel:Donna Buchanan: COO of United Way of Metropolitan AtlantaAnn Cramer: Director, IBM Corporate Citizenship & Corporate AffairsKelly Henson: Executive secretary, Georgia Professional Standards CommissionGary Price: Market managing partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Moderator: Steve Dolinger: President, Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education

Sponsored By: Georgia PacificNorth Highland AT&T

Program7:30 - 8a .m.: Registration, Networking and Continental Breakfast8:00- 9:15 a.m.: Panel Discussion9:15 – 9:45 a.m.: Q&A

Register online today at www.btobmagazine.com

Legislative Wrap-Up and Advocacy Training
Who: Women’s Policy Group
When: Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Where: Auditorium of the State Bar of Georgia, 104 Marietta Street, Atlanta, GA 30303
Time: 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

12pm - 1:25pm Legislative Wrap-Up
A panel of legislators including Sen. Nan Orrock, Rep. Virgil Fludd, Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver and Rep. Wendell Willard facilitated by Elizabeth Appley, the WPG lobbyist, will describe the gains and losses for women as a result of the recent General Assembly. How did women's issues fare in the state budget? What went right for the issue of child prostitution? Did women recently laid off, even foreclosed upon, find any relief from the state?

1:30 - 3:00 Advocacy Training
A fun (we swear), interactive, substantive training on how to make your voice heard through email, a phone call and in person with those people who were elected to serve you!! We will demonstrate what works and what doesn't and the tricks to being an effective advocate.

$8 for box lunch and beverage or bring your own. Both sessions are complimentary.

Rsvp: wpgrsvp@gmail.com and let us know if you wish to reserve a box lunch.

Parking: In various paid lots next to the State Bar and across the street, at CNN, or go green with MARTA.

Georgia Go Run
Who: The White House Project
When: Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27
Where: Agnes Scott College
Georgia Go Run is a weekend-long training to inspire, equip, and inform women from all walks of life to lead more effectively in your work, community, and politics. The training will focus on communications, fundraising, organizing and other leadership skills.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to build your skills and network with other women leaders!
This is a national training program that engages local experts, public officials, current and former elected officials, and speakers to help train and share their experiences and stories of success.
The training starts on Friday evening, June 26, and goes through Saturday, June 27.
We make this training affordable for women from all income levels. Scholarships are available

Click here to apply. The deadline to apply is tomorrow, June 17, 2009

Are HIV/AIDS patients the new economic stimulus?

2009-03-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

An MSNBC article reported that the current HIV/AIDS rate in our nation's capital is higher than that of West Africa.

Nearly 3,000 of every 100,000 people living in the nation's capital have HIV or AIDS, according to a report that will be released by D.C. health officials Monday.

"Our rates are higher than West Africa," Shannon L. Hader, director of the District's HIV/AIDS Administration, told The Washington Post. "They're on par with Uganda and some parts of Kenya."

Since it was first discovered in 1981, HIV/AIDS has continued to spread like wildfire throughout the world. We all know the "story". We've all heard of the non-profits that work to fund its "cure", the public service announcements that warn of its "severity", and the "living poster childs" that speak of its reach. We've all been "affected" in some way or another...but are we bound to be "infected"?

More AIDS patients create more hospital visits, more medication prescribed, and more health care costs. More healthcare costs means more money spent. More money spent means STIMILUS - but STIMULUS to whom? To the pharmaceutical companies? To the private banks who fund several public-private hospitals across the country? To AIG? Blue Cross and Blue Shield?

See these stats (source) relating health care, bankruptcy, and economy:

A recent study by Harvard University researchers found that the average out-of-pocket medical debt for those who filed for bankruptcy was $12,000. The study noted that 68 percent of those who filed for bankruptcy had health insurance. In addition, the study found that 50 percent of all bankruptcy filings were partly the result of medical expenses.

Every 30 seconds in the United States someone files for bankruptcy in the aftermath of a serious health problem.

A new survey shows that more than 25 percent said that housing problems resulted from medical debt, including the inability to make rent or mortgage payments and the development of bad credit ratings.

The average health care cost for the “healthy’ patient is STAGGERING. Just think how it may affect the AIDS patient, the underserved/underrepresented BLACK patient, and/or the patient who just lost their job?? Will the government come and bail us out then? Many people have done expose’s on the cost of health care, but as AIDS/HIV rates continue to rise we need to stop talking and start doing.

Hyundai has an ASSURANCE program. The hospital should have one too!!

Read President Obama's campaign promise to eradicate AIDS

Did you know the Republicans fought to REMOVE AIDS prevention from the stimulus BILL?

POSH goes PURPLE: NOT!!!

2009-03-12T06:14:00.000-07:00

pic source AP
(click the pic for a larger view)

A PURPLE BOWTIE???? REALLY ???This is NOT Posh POLITICS!

And don't start us on Desiree Rodgers, Ms. "Social Secretary" of the WHITE HOUSE standing behind Michelle. She gives event planners, image consultants, and PR professionals a BAD NAME. The British were quite turned off by the Obama's welcome or "unwelcome" in the WHITE HOUSE. It is Desiree's job to ensure that customs, cultures, and common decency are observed throughout the stay of ALL dignitaries... And then she let Michelle walk out in this monstrocity??????

GRAPE FLAVORED martinis on this one!

POSH Fashion: Our First LAdy's PREPPY LOOK

2009-03-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

(photos courtesy of Huffingtonpost.com)

All LAYERED up? Turquoise and Purple?

Michelle visits a women's military facility in VA

Come over to the White House for Tea! Good Idea!

Mushroom Risotto, Anyone?

Pretty in Pink Mrs. Obama visits at a Local DC Soup Kitchen

Our first lady is SO POSH.

Martini's up for Women's HERSTORY Month!

TOday on the Hill: Educaton Gets Some STAR POWER

2009-02-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

Today, at 10:00am, February 25th, recording artist Usher testified before the Committee on Education and Labor at a hearing examining how to renew America through national service and volunteerism.

All this done about a week after his wife was rumored to have almost died in Brazil from "liposuction" complications. Guess life must go on, right?Ah WELL!!!

Watch the video of Usher here » The hearing built on the important conversations happening across the country on national service and volunteerism, examining the importance of national and community service in meeting critical economic needs across the country.

TIME’s Richard Stengel and former Senator Harris Wofford also testified.

There's nothing like STAR power to help push forth a political agenda. It helped Barack OBAMA!

Did you know about Usher's New Look Foundation? Here's info.

Martini's up for Testifying on Capitol Hill

Martini's down for Liposuction...Whatever you do, you will never look like his ol' flame Chili from TLC...

Misinterpreted? Misguided? Or Simply, Misunderstood?

2009-02-24T09:52:00.000-08:00

(Pictures courtesy of Chris Brown and Sandra Rose.com courtesy of NY Post...haha)

A fellow blogger, political consultant, and commentator Jehmu Greene posted an article on the Huffington Post, Brown vs. Monkey, that causes scrutiny, questioning, and rebuttal from any concerned person in the black community. Here’s an excerpt:

“It is time for the black community to adopt a zero tolerance policy against domestic abuse. Bottom-line, what Chris Brown did to Rihanna was a teachable moment - an opportunity for the black community to coalesce and show the world we are taking action to address a pressing issue affecting us all. Cartoon-gate is a misguided media stunt that will further create a chilling effect on free speech and ultimately have little impact on the lives of black people. To my friends at Colorofchange.org, Al Sharpton's National Action Network, and the NAACP please put the protest signs down and refocus the media spotlight on issues that actually matter. If you have to boycott something, boycott Chris Brown.”

Comparing the recent incidents of Chris Brown’s domestic dispute and Rupert Murdoch’s oversight/political cartoon fau paux, Greene calls the cartoon misinterpreted, the “silence [of commentary on the Chris Brown case] deafening, and all of the major civil rights organizations “misguided.”

Misguided? Misinterpreted? We say misunderstanding.

Domestic violence is no small issue. It is one that repeatedly hits the social scene, whether it’s locally with Juanita Bynum and Bishop Weeks, nationally with Chris Brown and Rihanna, or hisorically with Ike and Tina. It is one that repeatedly causes mental, emotional, and physical distress for all involved; and permeates through all races, cultures, ethnicities, countries, states, cities, etc, etc etc. But it cannot be compared to a deliberate attack on an entire race. Though the article argues that offering aid to this effort may not exactly"save" a "life," this interpretation really depends on your definition of "save" and "life."

We have to disagre with the article. As a black woman, I identify with my race before my gender- and so does the rest of the world.

Brown vs. Monkey, is a blog post that gives the writer an opportunity to stand on a soap box and speak about an issue near and dear to her heart. This is fine; no one debates this heartfelt problem. But to bash many civil rights orgs such as the NAACP, Colors of Change, and the like is taking it a bit too far.

Many feel that the aforementioned organizations should do more. They say, we saw them nationally support Jena 6, but what happens locally when the cameras go off. We saw them nationally protest the New York Post, but what about all other issues and injustices that occur? Where are they then? My answer to that is where are you then? Are you there nationally? Are you there locally? Are you even there physically?

Civil Rights/Social Service organizations cannot exist without the help of others. The same others that criticize it should be the same “others” that become “members” and build these societies up. That’s what local chapters are for. That’s what websites are for. That’s what we are for. Public organizations are often underpaid, understaffed, and MISunderstood, as the young woman does in the previous blog. They don’t have the resources to address each and every issue that comes across the table, but they could if we all played a role in helping address them.

Now, just to be clear, there are no “Chris Brown” enthusiasts here, or Rihanna-haters. But to say a man’s award should be taken away because of a common mistake that we all are capable of is being a little insensitive. We’ve all been mad. We’ve all misunderstood something. We’re all human. We have faith in CB and Rihanna. If they are smart, they will hire TI’s publicist and find their own road to redemption!

Learn more about Chris Brown's Clean Up Crew.

Learn more about local chapters:

NAACP
Colors of Change
NOW

Martini’s up for TI’s Road to Redemption

Martini’s up for Civil Rights Organizations

PoshEconomics: Where's the Money Going?

2009-02-20T07:11:00.001-08:00

President Obama signed his first bill in Denver. Know where the money's going?

Click HERE to find out

Obama signs the newest bill into law

2009-02-18T06:00:00.001-08:00

Read the news article.

Click here for the CBS News Video

Sarah P Creates a PAC

2009-01-28T06:14:00.000-08:00

Sarah P creates a new PAC…say that three times fast….

So Sarah is back on the scene with a newly formed, political action committee charged with supporting Sarah Palin’s plans to build a better America. It’s rumored to follow the same model as our Secretary of State- Hillary’s- HillPAC

Here’s the link for the site.

Now, this is news to posh, because we didn’t realize that Sarah had any ideas, plans, or thoughts for the future and her website doesn’t help prove anything contrary either… What the????

So the point of the new website is???? Maybe I am missing something, but after clicking around the entire site, I found no evidence of a plan -just several requests for money. I also found out that the SarahPAC is linked to address in ARLINGTON, VA that is supposed to support the GOVENOR of Alaska’s plans??? I refuse to call her VP nominee because that was obviously a joke and the definition of “lipstick on a pig.”

I am currently checking to see if the SARAHPAC is international…I think the “citizens of Africa, the country”, would like to be members. The Republican Party really needs to strategize their communication the American public. Half “a$$” attempts at groups, websites, “support” and/or ideas are not the way to win its members back….and neither is Sarah Palin if you ask us…but we’re going to stop at that so we don’t become a new target of Sarah’s campaign against the “media”.

Just drink the martini after reading this post.

READ what the REDS are saying about the SARAHPAC

POSH on the WHITE House: BARACK says THIRD times a CHARM

2009-01-23T12:12:00.001-08:00

Looks like third times a CHARM?

After being distracted the first time by Jill Biden's hooker boots and Aretha's hat, President Barack became the third president (coolidge and arthur previously) to take the oath a second time on Wednesday night in the MAP Room in the BLACK, I mean WHITE house....

The catch is this.....U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts forgot the BIBLE...

According to White House lawyers, it's still legally binding, but after Obama decided to take the oath again for "precautionary" reasons, posh recommends that he do it AGAIN!!!! Obama-ites are beginning to get restless...Are they doing this to Obama on purpose?

Come on! How do you get dressed for a SWEARING IN CEREMONY in your robe, suit, and tie....AND then forget the BIBLE??

In a "christian" nation, I'd think there would be BIBLES all over the White House, wouldn't you?? Couldn't they have paused for a minute and asked an aide to "borrow" one?

This occurence proves furthermore....that "we" have not arrived! The racial, social, and cultural ills of American society have not yet been cured. IF SO, President Obama wouldn't have felt the need to do it again. All he did was "slip up" on a few words.....right? Obama cannot forget that the ones who support you one day, may turn your back on you the next.

As fast as they give it to you, they'll take it away...and we're sure you know who "THEY" are...The "not so posh" people.....Jan 20th was a good day, and we'll see what the future holds.

Here's another look at the "distractions":

Luke Song, 36, designer of the hat worn by Aretha Franklin

Here's Jill Biden as the "Red light special"...burn those things!!!!

Martini's up for Aretha's hat, and the BIBLE!!!!!
Martini's up to the 44th PRESIDENT

Read the full article about the story.... we'll let you know if there's a third time

Comment below :)

HennESSEY on ICE: The Official PRESIDENTIAL Cocktail

2009-01-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Now, I have grown up knowing that the brown liquors will get YOU SICKER.....

I've also been told that the brown liquors were for the brown people.... Almost every black man I know walked around talked about CROWN ROYAL or Hennessey on ice....

Well the official Hennessey company has responded with a limited edition commemoration bottle for the 44th president of the United States......This does not seem POSH to me.

A liquor bottle to represent the first "arguably black" president? Should I be offended? I would be if I knew the CEO of Hennessey was an "arguably white" man.... Only 180,000 will be sold. I wonder how many will find their way to EBAY????

The maker of Hennessy Cognac, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, is using numerology rather than language in its promotion, priced at $30 each, bearing seals and labels on the front and back emblazoned with “44” and phrases like “In honor of the 44th president” and “In honor of the presidential inauguration.”

Supposedly proceeds go to the Thurgood Marshall Foundation

Here's the bottle

Tell us what you think........

See who else is trying to get in the action! Read the NY Times Article

No martini's on this one! Just bottles of cognac!

DON't forget the FREE DONUTS!!!

Black Women Politics: VERy POsH

2008-11-28T19:47:00.000-08:00

source: Gazing Girl, Flckr

Sometimes as a single woman trying to marry a black man I have an open disdain for other black women.... And don’t look at the computer screen funny, because if you are a woman, you might have one too.

You know disdain for the skinny ones with big heads, the big ones with skinny egos, the wanna be blond ones, the weaved ones, the natural ones, the condescending ones, the competing ones, the ones with degrees and intelligence, the ones with long legs and sex appeal, the ones with…..you know JUST the ONES… Black women in General....

It’s usually nothing personal, but hey, how can one get ahead without female interaction? Whether power is exerted negatively, self esteems are crushed, or we become best friends, relations WILL happen. Black Women Politics will happen. It’s the reason Terry McMillan is popular, sorority rivalries thrive, Essence is still in publication, and for this new posh politics Blog Section- Black Women Politics (BWP). BWP will explore topics throughout the news that deal with this issue at hand- black women and the political struggle between them.

To kick off this section, the day after Thanksgiving, I have decided to turn my disdain into praise. I mean what would we do with out the Sasha Fierces, the Jasmine Sullivans, and Michelle Obamas, of the world. Black Women Politics observes what a woman can be in the media and how women in the real world can relate:

: Sasha Fierce :

This woman is married but singing passionately about the single life…This is beyond alter ego. And according to Beyonce’s/Sasha’s interview with Ellen, Jay Z knows Sasha well…I wonder how he knows her and what other men in her life know her as well…

Well anyway martini’s up for relishing the single life while married. I live vicariously through you.

: Jazmine Sullivan :

Girl Please! I would love to bust out the windows of a past boyfriends car, house, apartment, etc… Sometimes it feels so good to make someone else feel as bad as you do, and men just don’t understand....Thanks Beyonce... That “we’re just friends” movement of 2008 needs to stop!

Martini’s up for writing LEW with a crowbar…. I live vicariously through you.

: Michelle Obama :

The epitome of a black woman for a black man right now. In the media she is compared to Jackie O, Hillary Clinton, and the rest. She is strong, fashionable, a good role model, and rumored to be a soror. All the support that she gave, even after being chastised for saying when she “First felt American”, she was and is awesome.

Martini’s up for our newest First Lady..

:Buffie the Body :

The epitome of a sexual object for a black man right now. In the media she is compared to video chicks, prostitutes, calendar girls, and Playboy Models. She is always half naked, but strangely empowered. She clearly is getting what she wants, whether it be media attention, money, celebrity status? OR is she? As we look at the Michelle Obamas of the world, does Buffy make us want to turn away? All I know is I couldn’t be her, but I respect her swag.

Martini’s up for female sexuality.

: Mo'nique :

Monique is definitely one of those hate it or love it characters. She is loud, obnoxious, arguably classless, and overweight. She often mocks herself for a couple laughs with the self-determined mission of uplifiting the plus size woman. How can one help a group of women while continuously perpetuating the stereotypes that have brought them down? The jury is still out and our martinis are up.

Martinis up for positive women self esteem.

: Donna Brazille :

Donna has no advanced to degrees, but is as respected Condi when it comes to political participation, commentary, and expertise. Living during a time where women were expected teachers, homemakers, and seamstresses, this black woman has transcended so many levels of scrutiny. I personally respect and look to her life with admiration. She is an intelligence black woman in the media.

We need more of them. Martini’s up.

That's it for BWP now, but if you have a topic for Black Women Politics, and/or have a comment about one of the women listed above, let posh know

NOT POSH: MY PRESIDENT is a SMOKER

2008-11-17T07:09:00.000-08:00

Retail Therapy is something that many women across America would admit to participating in. As a contributor to posh and my own personal debt, I can attest to the power of this material healing. Though I feel good at the end of the day with a trunk full of “new things”, old problems/issues/stresses still sit in that trunk as well. They’ve just been pushed to the side to make room for a new purple pump.

Now if retail therapy isn’t your thing, maybe its cosmopolitans and martini’s, maybe its coffee, cake, or any type of comfort food, maybe its Wii games. We all have vices – some we admit to, some we don’t. But again, we all have them.

So when thinking of this, in terms of politics, I can’t help but wonder, what George Bush does when he gets stressed out? What do Congressmen do when they can’t get legislation passed. What do lobbyist do when no one is listening to their issue or addressing it they way they’d planned? And furthermore, does how one handle stress determine how he/she really is?

Our new president-elect has been open about his vice. He’s a smoker. Barack Hussein Obama has been a smoker for years, and has tried to quit to no avail. Who can really blame him with a heated campaign trail, the weight of being the first “colored” president ever in history charged to make a change, and new emerging death wishes across his head? I mean, I might take a pull too…. Well, then again, not really.

I must admit that when I found out that Barack Obama smoked, it threw me for a loop. I mean I always wondered why his lips were that color, I attributed it to melanin....Maybe its the poshness in me, but smoking is not smart or fashionable. It has direct ties to lung cancer and, even worse, death.

But anyway, whatever your vice is, keep in mind what it says about yourself. Several current public administration (which is the study of the creation, implementation and carrying out policies and procedures for the public good) books and theories now include stress as an inherent problem to the success of public organizations and entities such as governments. If human relations theory is right, and we should see an organization as a person. Then right now the largest and most powerful federal organization smokes....

Here's a link to a new pill that works with a support group.

At least that's what the tv commercial said...

Martini's up for new purple pumps

Martini's down for smoking....BAD OBAMA, BAD!!!!

http://www.stress.org/

DIRECT from the Pink BLACKBERRY: BUSH REGRETS

2008-11-12T09:49:00.000-08:00

As our blackberry went buzzing today, posh couldn't believe it! President Bush would like to apologize a few days after meeting with President Elect Barack Obama, a few days before the holiday season, and just minutes away from his departure.

Key regrets:

President George W. Bush said he regrets the display of the ``Mission Accomplished'' sign as backdrop for a speech he gave about a month after the March 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq.
``To some, it said, well, `Bush thinks the war in Iraq is over,' when I didn't think that,'' he said in a CNN interview today. ``It conveyed the wrong message.''

``I regret saying some things I shouldn't have said,'' Bush said. He cited comments he made after the Sept. 11 attacks, when he said of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden: ``I want justice. There's an old poster out West that said, 'Wanted, dead or alive.'''

Posh is not surprised at the new found reflection. People often find God, Mahatma Ghandi, or some other type of new religion after tramautic experiences. Maybe he found God, or is scared the Lord might strike him down for repeated lies.....(don't worry, these sentences only apply to you if you believe in a Higher Power).

Bush also said he might write a book- The Audacity of False Citizenship, Statements, and Intelligence- just kidding on that title. I think they are still deciding....

Read the article

Martini's up for regret!!! Thanks Bush, after all these years.

posh is STILL POSH: NON PARTISAN

2008-11-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

In order to combat the backlash that will surely come because of previously congratulating Barack Obama, posh must be frank. We will always be posh, we will always be non-partisan, but we will always be black owned as well. Though our president elect is the 44th president of the U.S. he is the first bi-racial president! He is the first president to identify himself as anything but white. He is the first african-american. Therefore, we must celebrate this achievement, because its posh.....The American reaction was posh, amongst some of the scariest national threats to the economy, our national security, and the average American citizen's quality of life, it was definitely time to elect a candidate that embodied the current situation in America....

Again- this is smart, this is fashionable.

So we will forever be a non-partisan blog. We will forever champion what is smart and fashionable....But if Sara Palin did not know that Africa was a continent, I apologize, she will not be mentioned in this blog- picking her was not smart or fashionable and neither is she.

With all that said......if you have tickets to the inauguration, let posh know!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We would love to be there!

Is it Posh?cELEbrities, POLITICS, and RAP Lyrics????

2008-11-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

source: AP

So we have a black president!!!!!!!!!!

Shout outs to Barack, Michelle, and the crew for representing the common man and bringing inspiration to countless people......

From involving popular celebrities such as Beyonce, Mary J, Russell Simmons, and P. Diddy in Miami, Philadelphia and other major cities, to families bringing children, grand children, etc to get into the act, this event was definitely historical...

source: AP

So now, as you drive down the streets, of major cities- such as Atlanta - you start to hear a song...MY PRESIDENT is BLACK by Young Jeezy. You peek into the car and see an energized black person screaming my president is black at the top of his/her lungs. You begin to think to yourself- was this what the election was all about? Is the president black? I thought he was mixed....and isn't celebrating such a historical moment with "Jeezy lyrics" downright distasteful??? Several people seem to think so...

But hear at posh, mecca of smart and fashionable, we think differently

SO yes, if anyone at posh hears On the RECESSION, My PRESIDENT by Jeezy…….It gets blasted, and why…for the same reason that “ALL my SINGLE ladies” by BEYONCE gets blasted on a good day (which is now everyday because my president is black, but we digress) because ITS CATCHY. It’s on the RADIO 24/7 and its called MEDIA influence. When you hear “My president is black” and it makes you feel good…..is that wrong? If it is a different way that has helped you identify with one of the most poignant happenings in history….is that DISTASTEFUL? African Americans have always had an artistic/musical past….Let’s not go back to African dancing and drums and the like. Musical expression is one of the pinnacles of our cultural make up.

Not only did Jeezy create a song in reference to the event, but he supported the campaign as well. Though he cannot vote, this rapper took time on Saturdays to volunteer his time and phone bank for our PRESIDENT ELECT, here in the RED state of GA. Cameras flashed as Beyonce, Puff Daddy, and others visited people in line major states, but Jeezy worked when the cameras WERE OFF. There are maybe two (I don’t know how many) videos of his phonebanking in Austell, GA. So read the lyrics. Read his shouts out to Booker T Washington and Jackie Robinson. Read his charge to the black community trying to buy shoes, pay bills, and deal with their current situation. Read his allusions to Martin Luther King, and lying politicians….SIMULTANEOUSLY. Listen to Nas and his appreciation for black HISTORY….

Like he said in the song, win, lose, or draw Barack was OUR President. So you cried on your couch when you heard the news. I felt enormous responsibility when I heard the news…..and others did God knows what when they heard the news. But if JEEZY’s SONG. “My President is Black” in particular was in their “God Knows What", we wouldn’t call it DISTASTEFUL in the like……it’s definitely ethical, it’s definitely appropriate, and TASTE is clearly a matter of opinion. It’s actually an interesting amalgamation of current society, generational norms, and modern music.

Michelle OBAMA on People's Best DRESSED List

2008-09-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Rounding out the top 10 of People's Best Dressed List -- and making a campaign statement for fashion -- was Michelle Obama, wife of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, who was given high marks for a look that was "classic and confident."

"She has a look. She works it with confidence, and she knows what looks good on her," said People's Style Editor Clarissa Cruz.

But Obama played down the notion that her sense of style might be anything close to couture, telling People: "Some of my favorite summer dresses are from Gap and H&M."

"The thing they all have in common is that they all [everyone on the list] had a great year, stuck to their own personal style and stayed true to that," said Cruz.

We agree with Cruz in terms of having a "GREAT YEAR" and knowing ones own personal style.
Posh takes a look at Michelle's fashions throughout the year.

Not quite Jackie O, but not really trying to be either!!!

Martini's UP for Personal Style. Congrats Michelle, that's very Posh. I am sure Sara Palin could have made the list, if people had known about her more than a month ago...I mean especially being a beauty queen and all...Then again, she is in a different race (literally and figuratively) she is running to be the vice president and not the best dressed.....

Do you agree with Michelle as one of People Mags best dressed? What was your favorite outfit???