The Big Three Reunite

After sitting out the rest of the season and the playoffs, Garnett is back, and with a vengeance. As the Premier Week takes off, the Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers went head to head reuniting the Big Three and debuting Lebron James and Shaquille O’Neal.



As the game tipped off, Cleveland broke out to a 13-2 lead, went up 19-5 on a jumper by O'Neal and led 28-21 after one. It looked as if the Cavs' was ready for action when James flew down court to rejected Rondo dunk attempt. But to no avail, the Cavs’ let the Celtics heat up and as Lebron rested, the Celtics did what they do best, prepare for a come from behind victory. Ray Allen made two 3-pointers and scored 11 points in the second quarter and the Celtics made seven 3s to close the first half with a 51-45 lead.

After halftime, the Cavs’ began to pick up the pace as James began to open up pulling them within six points. With the Cavs’ Home winning streak on the line and the Celtics tasting victory on the tip of their tongue, the two teams pushed a little harder as they began to fight for second, third, and fourth chance shot. Soon after, the Celtics Vice President began to yell to the players on the court “foul Shaq” in order to maintain their lead, and that they did. With a final score of 95-89, the Cavs’ was not able to bounce back and the Celtics opened up their season with a victory.




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Ice Cube receives the I Am Hip-Hop Award.

The 2009 BET Hip-Hop Awards was held yesterday Monday, October 27, 2009. This year the Recipient of the I Am Hip-Hop Award was none other than Ice Cube himself. While introducing Ice Cube, he was described as “still being a forceful voice by doing it his way, always noting the strength of street knowledge” by one of his favorite rappers. “From his first rhyme, we knew he was a star.”


Born in South Central Los Angeles, California, in 1969, he became one of the most influential and important figures early in his career. Known as the man behind the master plan, creating the critically acclaimed group N.W.A, including Eazy-E, DJ Yella, MC Ren, and the infamous Dr. Dre, Ice Cube developed the West Coast into a powerhouse for rap music.

After working with N.W.A, Ice Cube went on to pursue a solo career dropping two of the best albums “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” and “Death Certificate.” As Ice Cube began to advance his music career, he also took on the role of acting beginning with his Academy Award-nominated “Boyz n the Hood.” Not long after being recognized as a rap icon and a natural on the big screen, he established himself as a movie writer when he wrote the 1995 classic “Friday.” This lead to the creation of Cube Vision, Ice Cube’s own production company including movies such as; “All About the Benjamins,” the Barber Shop,” “Are We There Yet?” “Are We Done Yet?” and “The Longshots.”

During his acceptance speech, Ice Cube stated that “I am hip-hop, I do what I want, and I say what I mean, and I’m not going to apologize to nobody.” He went on to say “We can’t be slaves to video programming, Producers. If we’re going to be slaves, we need to be slaves to ourselves.” Ice cube ending by saying “Long as you got a tongue, you’re not too old to rap.”

Ice Cube is Hip-Hop





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Introducing Jazzy

The Entertainment always tries to provide the readers with the best fashion tips, sports updates, and music releases; however, it has been brought to my attention that I have been leaving the females out on a lot of action all this time. As I stated before, the direction and success of this blog depends on the fresh ideas provided by the Entertainment. (Also read ...:::What’s Next For The Entertainment:::...)


With that being said, I would like to introduce the newest writer on Next Level Thinking, Jazmine Goodwin. Jazzy, a freshman at Morris College and a native of Brooklyn, NY has plenty of fashion tips and insight and is a real fashion expert. I believe that she have a lot to offer to Next Level Thinking as well as the readers. Stay tune for her first post (especially the ladies) as she bring to you her take on being fashionable in the business world.





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B.E.T. Hip Hop Awards '09 Cypher #3: Mos Def, Black Thought & Eminem

The Cypher #3: featuring Mos Def, Black Thought & Eminem was by far the best Cypher of the whole night...




With the genius setup of Mos Def starting off and Eminem on the finish, it was truly a classic. If for some reason you was not able to view the 2009 BET Hip-Hop Awards, please check out the encore, October 29, 2009 8:00 p.m.


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Soul Train Nominees

Billboard results show Beyonce, Maxwell, and Keri Hilson lead the list of nominees for the Soul Train Awards with four nominations each. Hosted by Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson (my wifey), the 2009 Soul Train Awards will premiere on BET on November 29 at 9 p.m.



The Soul Train Awards will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of Motown Records and honor the late Michael Jackson with the Entertainer of the Year Award. Artist expected to hit the stage are, Toni Braxton, Trey Songz (Yup), Chrisette Michelle, Melanie Fiona and many more.

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Jay-Z to perform at World Series

The New York Yankees have had an Empire State of Mind this hold season which is why they are preparing to go head to head with the defending champs, the Philadelphia Phillies. To kick things off right, the Yankees has asked this rap legend, Jay-Z, to perform Empire State of Mind live to kick off Game 1 of the World Series.




Jay-Z was recently interviewed and said that he was excited about the performance, he said “Thank the good lord for making me a Yankee” and I concur. Also hitting the stage with Jay-Z, another New Yorker, is Alicia Keys. You’ve seen these two tear up the stage at the 2009 MTV VMA’s and now you can see these two again this Wednesday, live on the field. Don’t miss out…


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Another case of Ignorance

This is a letter and a response to a concern that this women has. This letter is pretty long; however, worth reading. I found this letter as I was scrolling through some other blogs and felt that it needed to be reposted……Nothing to worry about, I’m citing the blog it came from to avoid plagiarism.

CoCo Diva Talk
Posted, Monday, July 27, 2009


White Woman's Opinion of Black Women

White women's opinion of black women & a brother's response Please take a moment and read this. Pretty Deep! Thumbs up to this black man.. Enjoy. It seems that an article was written to Sister 2 Sister magazine by a Caucasian woman who requested a response from black men. I'm so glad she got what she asked for (and more) !!!
Dear Jamie: I'm sorry but I would like to challenge some of your Black male readers. I am a White female who is engaged to a Black male - good-looking, educated and loving. I just don't understand a lot of Black female's attitudes about our relationship. My man decided he wanted me because the pickings amongst Black women were slim to none. As he said they were either too fat, too loud, too mean, too argumentative, too needy, too materialistic or carrying too much excess baggage. Before I became engaged, whenever I went out I was constantly approached by Black men, willing to wine and dine me and give me the world. If Black women are so up in arms about us being with their men, why don't they look at themselves and make some changes. I am tired of the dirty looks I get and snide remarks when we're out in public. I would like to hear from some Black men about why we are so appealing and coveted by them. Bryant Gumbel just left his wife of 26 years for one of us Charles Barkley, Scottie Pippen, the model Tyson Beckford, Montell Williams, Quincy Jones, James Earl Jones, Harry Belafonte, Sydney Poitier, Kofi Anan, Cuba Gooding Jr., Don Cornelius, Berry Gordy, Billy Blanks, Larry Fishburne, Wesley Snipes... I could go on and on. But, right now, I'm a little angry and that is why I wrote this so hurriedly. Don't be mad with us White women because so many of your men want us. Get your acts together and learn from us and we may lead you to treat your men better. If I'm wrong, Black men, let me know.



Disgusted White Girl, Somewhere in VA RESPONSE Dear Jamie: I would like to respond to the letter written by A Disgusted White Girl. Let me start by saying that I am a 28-year old black man. I graduated from one of the most prestigious universities in Atlanta, Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management. I have a good job at a major corporation and have recently purchased a house. So, I consider myself to be among the ranks of successful black men. I will not use my precious time to slander white people. I just want to set the record straight of why black men date white women. Back in the day, one of the biggest reasons why black men dated white women was because they were considered easy. The black girls in my neighborhood were raised in the church. They were very strict about when they lost their virginity and who they lost it to. Because of our impatience to wait, brothers would look for someone who would give it up easy without too much hassle. So, they turned to the white girls. Nowadays, in my opinion, a lot of brothers date white women because they are docile and easy to control. A lot of black men, because of insecurities, fears, and overall weaknesses, have become intimidated by the strength of our black women. We are afraid that our woman will be more successful than us, make more money than us, drive nicer cars and own bigger houses. Because of this fear, many black men look for a more docile woman. Someone we can control. I have talked to numerous black men and they continuously comment on how easy it is to control and walk over their white women. I just want to set the record straight. I want A Disgusted White Girl to know that not all successful black men date white women. Brothers like Ahmad Rashad, Denzel Washington, Michael Jordan, Morris Chestnut, Will Smith, Blair Underwood, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Samuel L. Jackson, and Chris Rock all married strong black women And, to flip the script, there are numerous white men, in and out of the spot light, who openly or secretly desire black women over white women. Ted Danson, Robert DeNiro, and David Bowie to name a few. I just don't want a disgusted white girl to be misinformed Stop thinking that because you are white that you are some type of goddess. Remember, when black Egyptian Queens like Hatsepshut and Nitorcris were ruling Dynasties and armies of men in Egypt, you were over in the caves of Europe eating raw meat and beating each other over the head with clubs. Read your history! It was the black woman that taught you how to cook and season your food. It was the black woman that taught you how to raise your children. It was black women who were breast feeding and raising your babies during slavery. It is the black woman that had to endure watching their fathers, husbands, and children beaten, killed, and thrown in jail. Black women were born with two strikes against them: being black and being a woman. And, through all this, Still They Rise! It is because of the black women's strength, elegance, power, love and beauty that I could> never> date anyone except my black Queen. It is not just the outer beauty that captivates and draws me to them. It is not the fact that they come in all shapes, sizes, colors and shades that I love them. Their inner beauty is what I find most appealing about black women. Their strong spirit, loving and nurturing souls, their integrity, their ability to overcome great obstacles, their willingness to stand for what they believe in, and their determination to succeed and reach their highest potential while enduring great pain and suffering is why I have fallen in love with black women. I honestly believe that your anger is geared more toward jealousy and envy more so than snotty looks. If this were not so, then why do you continuously go to tanning salons to darken your skin? If you are so proud to be white, then why don't you just be happy with your pale skin? Why do you continue to inject your lips, hips, and breasts with unnatural and dangerous substances so you can look fuller and more voluptuous? I think that your anger is really a result of you wanting to have what the black woman has. BOTTOM LINE: If I were looking for a docile woman, someone I can walk over and control, I would give you a call. But, unfortunately, I am looking for a Virtuous Woman. Someone that can be a good wife and mother to my children. Someone who can be my best friend and understands my struggles. I am looking for a soul mate. I am looking for a sister and; unfortunately, you do not and CANNOT fit the bill. No offense taken, none given. Signed, Black Royalty Wow!! We must pass this on to make the day of the Black Queens of our acquaintances!


Reposted by
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New Music By Ne-Yo

He's at it again......


Press play and watch.

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Raheem DeVaughn Makin Big Moves

Recently, Raheem DeVaughn collaborated with Ghostface Killah on two songs (“Do Over” and “Baby”) on Ghostdini: The Wizard of Poetry in Emerald City. He has now announced that the two of them will join forces to produce an album together. These two have had many meetings and Raheem have also been meeting him on the road to support the record. The music mastermind also has a new single, called “Bulletproof” in which Ludacris is featured on it. (A must hear if you ask me)

But thats not it,



Raheem also announced that he will be coming out with a double CD jumping straight into the studio with Raekwon. This album is titled The Love And War Masterpiece and Raheem promises it going to be a classic with half being socially conscious and half about love. With the likes of Bun B, Wale, and Damien Marley as featured artist on the album (Please do your homework on these guys), I can’t see why not. Be on the lookout for the album release date and further information.



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Mike Tyson & Evander Holyfield Face-to-Face

We can all record the day that Evander Holyfield ear was viciously bite of by one of the greatest boxers of all time Mike Tyson. Twelve years later, Mike Tyson will again come face to face with his boxing rival – on the Oprah Winfrey Show. This will be their first joint interview since the incident in Las Vegas.


Click on the video for details.




This Production is brought to you by Next Level Thinking ENT.


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Columbia City Ballet Performs Dracula

One of the many benefits of attending a HBCU it that they provide the students with many cultural activities. One of these activities includes the Columbia City Ballet visiting Morris College. Now when I first heard ballet, I was like “I’ll Pass”, however, after actually watching the ballet, I had a change of mind. In fact I will go on record to say that I really enjoyed it.

This year, the theme was Dracula. Dracula himself is a combination of many contradictions. He is a repulsive yet seductive character. Although dead he can live forever, but he can also be killed. This theme was executed perfectly and I look forward to going to see another one in the future.


The Crew takes a second to pose for the camera




To the fellas that think their too cool to see a ballet, I advise you to cuff your lady quick because their waiting for a man to think outside of the box and take them to a ballet. (BTW, I’m also going again next week, take the hint)



Me and my lb Lupe Dion pose with Dracula



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Lloyd Banks ft Diddy - Love Come Down RMX

Check out this collabration of Diddy & Banks....




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Lupe Fiasco – Solar Midnite

Solar Midnite, the first commercial release that Lupe wrote and produced. He was asked by The New Moon team to write a song and clearly you can see the results. Many of these ideas stemmed from an invite to an early screening of the unfinished film. The rock song deals with the chaotic love story that takes place between the characters. I highly urge everyone to click the button and watch this genius in action.


A definite hit on the list, and expected to reach the top of the charts watch the video and be on the look out for the Movie, New Moon.


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Money To Blow

I didnt even know there was a video to this song but oh well.


Check it out.....


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~Warm Fashions Vol 1~

From Head to Toe

With winter being right around the corner, I felt that this was the perfect time to introduce the Warm Fashions.

So lets get on with it......

First we start off with the Hat




Nothing explains a man’s fashion insight more than a nice stylish hat. The ability to select a hat of style shows maturity and sophistication. Here are a few stylish men's hats that will leave your head feeling warm and dapperly attired.














A well-made hat serves two important purposes. First, it keeps you warm in the winter months by helping you contain the heat from your body. Secondly, it keeps your hair neat and tidy while still looking cool. When your swagg is added to the equation, it sets it all off.



Check out how this guy executes the Hat.....





Photography provided by Lupe Dion



To Be Continued



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Letters to a YOUNG BROTHER

Different things motivate different people. My motivation is the success of another person who stands in the position that I am heading in. President Barack Obama, Hill Harper, and Johnnie Cochran to name a few, have obtained Law Degrees from top law schools. As a Pre-Law student, I look up to these men and admire their success. These men are the epitome of African American Success. While reading many of these letters, I began to see how Harper strives to give young men the knowledge of the things that bring them true empowerment such as; education, a strong sense of purpose, compassion, and confidence.




Although I have not read all of the letters (and because I really did not start reading the first letter) I really enjoyed the letter “Quitting vs. Changing Your Mind”. This letter gave me confidence and inspiration to continue to pursue my Law Degree instead of working for the Federal Agency where I interned this summer. I’m not quitting the position before I get it, Im just changing my mind. Thanks Harper. (Also read In My Lifetime Vol 2)

To my ladies, I didn’t forget about you. Check out LETTERS TO A YOUNG SISTER



Winner of Best Book for Young Adults 2007, I highly encourage every young man to go out and get your copy. I guarantee you have not seen inspiration until you have read this book.

Signed

Bed-Stuy



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What's sexy about a Female?

I was talking with a few of the fellas and the question came up about "What's sexy about a Female?"

In my opinion:

A woman’s lips have got to be the sexiest thing to me. A set of sexy legs and soft skin is always a plus, pretty eyes make me melt on the inside, swaggar, style, attitude, confidence, and most importantly conversation is always a turn on but the sexy physicality (and yes that is a word) and the makeup of a women’s lips just rush blood throughout my body. Not only having the lips is enough for me but the ability to be able to use those oh so sexy lips just take it to another level.

As always your comment or opinion is greatly appreciated....


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...:::Whats Next For The Entertainment:::...

With the idea of providing the past, present and the future of Music, Fine Arts, Fashion Trends, Sports and Entertainment for the readers, I’m at the point where I’m thinking what’s next for the Entertainment. The direction and success of this blog depends on the fresh ideas provided by the Entertainment and with the introduction of video posting, it is clearly oblivious that the blog is reaching new heights. The Entertainment invites everyone to be apart of the evolution of this blog. There is much in store and you don’t want to miss out. The Entertainment wants to Thank Everyone for visiting Next Level Thinking ENT. and hope that you continue to come back.


Signed


The ENTERTAINMENT. Read more...

First Class Lands on the Entertainment

The First Official Video Post




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..:::Congrats Lil Bro:::..

Shout out to the lil brother for making the basketball team for the second year in a row. Travis Griffin, a junior at Morris College coming for the mean streets of Buffalo, NY, playing the point guard position. He does his thing on and off the b-ball court as you can see. We’ll see you at the games lil bro. Congrats man, much love to your future endeavors and success. Read more...

In my Lifetime Vol. 2

HBCU Edition




College can be fun and it can also be culturally stimulating. Attending a black college is one of the best experiences that an African-American can have. The struggles, the history, and the successes of most Historically Black Colleges/Universities are astounding. It is truly a privilege to follow the legacies of some of America’s most profound black leaders by attending and graduating from a Historically Black College/University.

Leaving high school and deciding on what college to go to was a crazy experience. I looked at local colleges and they just didn’t fit my taste. After careful research and attending many college tours, I decided to attend an HBCU. Next was the hard part, figuring out what HBCU to attend because I wanted to stay in the state and still wanted to get away from home.

I have had the opportunity to attend Morris College (http://www.morris.edu/). I would have to say that this was definitely one of the best experiences in my life. I was able to grow and understand who I was and the struggles that African-Americans have gone through in order to get me there. Besides all of the parties, different cultures, and excitement, I did end up learning more than I thought that I would. My experience at an HBCU has helped shape the person that I am today. As a senior, there are many decisions that I must make going into the real world. I am caught between going to law school, and taking a position with a federal agency.

Let me know your ideas and thoughts on what I should do.

In the Meantime, These are the Top 5 HBCUs

1. Morehouse College
2. Spelman College
3. Clark Atlanta University
4. Florida A&M University
5. Howard University

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Is Jay-Z Bigger than Hip-Hop

No story for this post, I want to hear your opinion on this one.


Let me know your comments and ideas......




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How I Do

By Marques Houston


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~Lady GaGa Tours Solo~

Kanye West and Lady Gaga's tour, titled "Fame Kills," was supposed to kick off Nov. 10 in Phoenix. This past week, Live Nation announced its cancellation on Thursday with no explanation. Its no secret that West had endured a firestorm of negative publicity since storming the stage at MTV Video Music Awards last month and hijacking Taylor Swift's award-winning moment while she was giving her acceptance speech after winning best female video. Lady Gaga said her new tour will kick off in mid-November. Her platinum-selling debut CD, "The Fame," will be rereleased on Nov. 24.



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In my Lifetime Vol. 1

Property of October

Throughout my lifetime, I have been fortunate to have experienced and to have seen many things. It is the foundation of the little success that I have accomplished in my life. As a college senior, many obstacles and road blocks are thrown your way, however, it is the response and how a person handles the situation which determines the success. Today marks the twenty second year of my existence which is a direct result of hard work and perseverance. To everyone that played a major role in the development of my well being, I thank you. To everyone with disbelief and uncertainty of my success, I thank you for providing me with ammunition to continue to press forward.



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