Your Politics: Cartoon No Laughing Matter

From: The New York Post/AP

Al Sharpton described it as, “troubling at best given the historic racist attacks of African-Americans as being synonymous with monkeys.”

State Senator Eric Adams called it a throwback to the days when black men were lynched.

Col Allan, editor-in-chief of the Post, responded, “The cartoon is a clear parody of a current news event, to wit the shooting of a violent chimpanzee in Connecticut. It broadly mocks Washington’s efforts to revive the economy. Again, Al Sharpton reveals himself as nothing more than a publicity opportunist.”

Now that America has a Black president, he will be criticized and parodied just as those before him. With a Black man holding the highest office in the nation, some may think we have entered a post-racial era. How do we respond to criticisms of the president that may also smell of racism?

John Legend called for a boycott of the New York Post as a response to the cartoon.

The public has called, written, protested and rallied against the newspaper.

The White House has said it’s not even newsworthy.

So, what do you think about the cartoon? Where is the line, and what are our options if we feel that the media has crossed that line? Urban Talk would love to hear what the YPs think!
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Your Physique: Love Your Heart!

We Heart You!

There are so many things to celebrate this February: Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Presidents Day (Go Lincoln and Washington!), and Fat Tuesday! But, Urban Talk wants you to mark something else on your calendar this month...February is American Heart Month. Sure, right now we are young, successful, and outrageously attractive, but we have to face the facts:

• Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for African-American males and females age 20 and older.

• African-American women face a greater threat of death from heart disease than women of other races.

• In 2005, African American men were 30% more likely to die from heart disease, as compared to non-Hispanic white men.

Definitely scary, but knowledge is power! Here are some simple things you can do to lower your risk of heart disease:

• Work out at least 30 minutes most days of the week to keep your heart pumping.

• If you smoke, STOP! In Europe, a pack of cigarettes says, “SMOKERS DIE EARLY!” That’s the truth, so kick the habit this month.

• Eat a healthier diet. Sure fried chicken and mac and cheese are great, but save ‘em for the holidays. Enjoy grilled meat and lots of veggies in your everyday diet.

• Get a physical: know your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and BMI, and if any of them are out of whack, talk to your doctor about getting back on track.

Start a healthy lifestyle today! Let that be your Valentine’s Day gift to your loved ones, because they want you around for many more years to come!

For more information visit www.americanheart.org and check out a Toolkit for African Americans here. Read more ...

Your Palette: The Glenwood

Last night in a failed attempt to grab a bite to eat at one of East Atlanta’s trendy restaurants, we stumbled upon The Glenwood. The Glenwood looks average enough, a tavern plain and simple. So I walked in expecting bar food; a hearty burger, maybe some fries. But the menu brought a pleasant surprise, including selections to please ANY palate.

Before I go on, I must admit that I am currently no abstaining from meat. As such, I initially chose tempura vegetables with Cucumber Wasabi Aioli, Sweet Chili, Ginger Soy as an appetizer. Then, I glanced down the menu and found Fried Pickles!! Who can resist fried pickles? Salt and grease, together? Clearly, this is a must have. The best part is they did NOT disappoint. The greasy goodness was made even better when dipped in the dressing, which was reminiscent of ranch: a condiment that makes everything taste even better.

Just as I finished licking my lips and downing my glass of H2O (yeah I’m abstaining from adult beverages too) the entrées arrived. I ordered bowtie pasta in marinara sauce served on a bed of spinach and mushrooms. (The menu has an option of white wine alfredo sauce, but I’m getting healthy remember. You can also add shrimp or chicken). Upon first bite, I was in love. The marinara embodied the full flavor of fresh tomatoes and herbs married beautifully with deliciously sautéed spinach and mushroom. I died and met vegetarian heaven. Or so I thought.

Then I looked across the table and locked eyes with the most beautiful piece of lasagna I’ve ever seen in my life. Smothered in a blanket of cheese, stuffed with vegetables and even more cheese on the inside, I made a beeline to taste it. This hearty lasagna solidified The Glenwood’s place as my favorite new restaurant.

So, you must go. Yeah, I know, Atlanta has tons of swanky, trendy, celebrity restaurants. But, I promise you will not be disappointed if you head to The Glenwood. It satisfied my vegetarian soul, and the menu also had meat galore. From the shrimp or oyster po’ boy to the rack of lamb to the rabbit loin, you meat lovers will be in heaven as well. Wine lovers can savor the wine list; cheese lovers can sample the cheese spread. The Glenwood is the perfect place for a date, dinner with friends, or a business meeting. It’s a must know spot for Atlanta’s Young Professional.

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