With a new Tupac Shakur film on the way here's what we know so Far...
Instagram
After holding a casting call, company Morgan Creek Productions announced The Actor that will be starring in the film is named Demetrius Shipp Jr., and this film will be his first major acting role.
Instagram
Instagram
The movie will also star actor Jamal Woolard, Famous for his role in "NOTORIOUS" as Rapper Notorious B.I.G.
Instagram
Under the direction of Benny Boom with production by L.T. Hutton, The story will be Covering the rappers rise to fame til his untimely death in 1996. The film will also reportedly star actress Kat Graham , and Hill Harper as well. No release date is set yet but the film did recently start filming in Atlanta. Let us Know your thoughts on the casting so far and if you are looking forward to seeing "All Eyez on Me" the Tupac Biopic.
As Promised, NBA legend Michael Jordan forwarded his earnings from a settlement after a lengthy Court Case against Dominicks and Jewel-Osco.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Back in 2009, Dominick's ran an Ad for Steaks In Sports Illustrated Magazine. This was an illegal use of the Jordan name and Likeness which turned into a 6 year court battle. Dominick's, a Chicago Area Grocery store chain has since gone out of business. In the end a Jury concluded the the former grocery store chain should award "His Airness" with 8.9 Million dollars. Monday, December 14 it was announced that the proceeds from the settlement would be donated to "23" Charities including Greater Chicago Food Depository, After School Matters, and others. The Exact amount that was donated is unknown, but Jordan did release a statement about the decision...
"I care deeply about the city of Chicago and have such incredible memories from my years there," Jordan said in a news release. "The 23 charities I've chosen to make donations to all support the health, education and well-being of the kids of Chicago. Chicago has given me so much and I want to give back to its kids — the city's future." - Chicago Tribune
sneakernews.com Of Course his Lawyers needed to be paid but it can be assumed that there were still millions left over to be donated to charity. Jordan, whose father was Murdered back in 1993, has also been accused of investing into Private Prisons, and lack of concern with violence related to his sneaker releases. Is this a step forward for the Jordan brand, not Likely because Jordan already has done tremendous charity work and donated Millions of as well check out some of his contributions here. Should it Matter that Jordan Invests in Prisons to contain the same types of Criminals that Murdered his Father?? What Are some other charities well to do Celebrity/Athletes should be Donating to more Often? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Over the past 6 months, I have been hearing more and more people mention TOP GOLF. I have never been much of a Golfer outside of Miniature Golf, but I am looking to get into some new hobbies for 2016. I don't live too far from a Course, but I feel that I might need some Practice before I jump out there. With almost 30 locations across the U.S. Top Golf is still expanding. In Atlanta, there are two locations. One in Alpharetta and one in Midtown.
Welcome to Top Golf, where skills are Optional. A non intimidating environment where, While Golfing, You enjoy a Full Menu with Desserts and Appetizers, and a full bar with assorted Cocktails as well. Brunch is even served on Weekends until 2pm. Tournaments, Developmental leagues, and most importantly, Lessons are also available. Aside from that, there are also HDTV's at every bay, Live Music and or DJ's , and You can even host parties or Corporate events there. There are both memberships and Hourly rentals available for various prices. Overall, a great place for Adults to Golf, hang out and interact with friends at the same time.
Topgolf.com
I will be going to check it all out soon, and You can follow Top Golf on Instagram at @topgolfatlanta and use Hashtag #ilovetopgolf on your pictures when you go. Check out the video below and let us know in the comments about your Experience at Top Golf or if you are planning to attend.
In what could be the first big step towards restructuring the questionable Practices of the Chicago Police Force, Mayor Rahm Emanuel fired Gary McCarthy the city's Chief of Police.
Chicagotribune.com
In Light of the releasing of Police dash camera footage of the execution of 17 year old Laquan McDonald which took Place last year. Many people are not satisfied with the move, and want more action. As a result There have also been protests downtown by people calling for the resignation of Mayor Emmanuel.
(John J. Kim, Chicago Tribune)
Emmanuel who was also involved in a crucial re-election campaign, has been present the whole time from the attempted cover up, the 400+ days that it took to release the dash cam footage, a 5 million settlement payment that was given before the family even filed a lawsuit, to the code of silence between the officers involved, evidence tampering, and more. This has pressured the mayor to issue an Apology to the citizens of Chicago, for the entire incident.
Critics of the protests feel that the energy should be directed at the criminal activity rather than the police and local officials. However technically, Cleaning House would involve the mayor stepping down as well. How could all of this Happen under his watch? Where are the Good cops when we need them? How can Chicago bounce back from this systematic problem it is facing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Following up on my initial Article I had the chance to go see " Chiraq" by Spike Lee, this past weekend. After all the outrage from the very controversial Trailer, Which released last month, I was looking forward to checking this one out so I could be the judge. Born in Chicago myself, the current situation that the movie attempts to portray is very serious to me and much of my family that still resides there.
CHIRAQ= 3 out of 5
Pros-Good Acting, Directing, Comedic relief by way of Samuel Jackson
Cons- Casting, Authenticity, External influence was lacking.
Click the video below for Tha Vantage Review: My thoughts on Spike's Latest film which is literally a Satire spoken in rhyme, based off of the ancient play "Lysistrata" using Chicago for a setting...
Arguably one of the most underrated, and consistent Artists in the Game, New Orleans own Curren$y has just released a new Album. Titled " Canal Street Confidential", Spitta makes his much anticipated return. In true form, he gracefully laces each track along with a host of features from the likes of Future, August Alsina,Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Wayne, and his longtime Jet Life brother Wiz Khalifa. Overall Curren$y does not disappoint on this album and he mixes it up with some fresh features. I would definitely recommend this album as "Certified Chill Music". Check out the new Album here, the Video Below of the song "Winning" ft. Wiz Khalifa, and follow Curren$y on Instagram at @spitta_andretti.
Venturing outside of the box ( no pun intended) when picking up new sneakers has been a must for me lately. Honestly Ive been in the game for a minute now and Ive pretty much copped all the "nostalgia pickups" from my child hood. I would have to Define the term Nostalgia Pickups as: Kicks you missed from childhood that release later in life. Anyhow, while scoping for new brands I ran across a unique sneaker Company called Filling Pieces.
Filling Pieces is an Amsterdam based sneaker company that started in 2009. The creator is a designer by the name of Guilaume Philibert.
My first pickup is the Low Top Transformed Model. This is a dope All Red Sneaker, one that i have been searching for for quite some time. I didn't wanna go with the usual, 3lab4, all red foams, dunk hi , roshe run etc. and wanted to switch it up a little. These are a great quality shoe with a designer feel that has a much more reasonable price point of $245.
The sneaker boasts an All Red textured upper that has individual pyramid shapes along with smooth calfskin leather, Leather interior, wax laces, mesh ventilation holes, and sturdy craftsmanship. The Trademark tongue shape hugs the ankle and makes for a different look than the traditional design. Overall, No complaints on this model from me. Check out the video below and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Following Tha Vantage on Social Media is easy as 1, 2, 3!
Outside of the Website itself, we have several other platforms.
We are on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube!
Here are the links below!
Facebook- Articles and Review Videos , Also Discussions on Current Events.
Instagram- A Visual Experience- A blend of Art and Style.
Youtube- Features "Tha Vantage Review" Videos and More, Subscribe and Stay Updated!
Follow us Now!
Also subscribe via Email to receive each new post from the vantage directly. We appreciate the support and will continue to bring more from Tha Vantage!
Yesterday Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders (D) Graced Atlanta, GA with his presence. The Vermont Senator spoke before a crowd of more than 4,000 people at the famous Fox Theatre. Sanders has been very clear on the many issues that are important to him such as:
Sanders was introduced by Atlanta native (Michael Render) aka Killer Mike with a 5 minute Speech seen below:
Sanders was a major advocate of The Dr. Martin Luther King.
“Dr. King saw not only the need to end racism and segregation but to create an economy that works for all Americans,”
The trip to Atlanta was Business as Usual for Sanders. Aside from visiting the King Center and meeting with Dr. Bernice King ( MLK's Daughter) , The senator also had lunch at the historical Busy Bee Cafe located on Martin Luther King Blvd. In Atlanta which made for a Great Photo Op.
ajc.com
Chicagotribune.com
Many people in the younger demographic identify with Bernie Sanders on important issues and feel he is a representative of the people and not the Big Donors that typically hijack the election. He has been neck and neck in the polls alongside Hillary Clinton. Many think he will win the Minority vote as well as the young vote, which helped propel President Barack Obama into victory back in 2008.
Sanders continues his southern tour which included a stop in South Carolina and Savannah this past weekend. For more on Bernie Sanders click here. Will you be Voting for Bernie Sanders next year? Let us know your thoughts on the 2016 Presidential Race below.
This year, The world seems to have really been Shaken Up by Terrorism. Since January we've seen Countless Tragedies, Occurring Almost Everyday Overseas. Massacres in Nigeria and Kenya, Bombings in Beirut, Multiple Terror Attacks in Paris, Killings in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Egypt, Even America, the list goes On and on. For a more in depth look at the frequency of Terror attacks in the World check out the 2015 list Here. Groups such as ISIL, and Boko Haram, have committed countless acts of terror responsible for the deaths of thousands of people In the middle east and Africa.
Here in the United States, The domestic problems have been evident. In the midst of ongoing issues with Police killing civilians, which for 2015 just reached over 1000 deaths , Homeless Veterans, Gun Violence, Education, Same Sex Marriage, and Immigration, many Americans have urged the President and Politicians to focus on the matters at Home rather than Abroad. Due to the Crisis in Syria and Military Response to the French Terror Attacks, Many Refugees are fleeing the destruction.According to many reports, a Passport found after the attack in Paris turned out to be that of a Syrian Refugee, though it has not been authenticated. The Obama Administration has also agreed to allow 10,000 Syrian Refugees (mostly women and children) to enter the United States in 2016. As of today, about half of the U.S. States have declared that they will Not accept ANY relocating Syrian Refugees into their States, due to a potential security threat.
Social Media has also been a major contributor to the fostering of such divisive ideologies. Just taking a look into the Comment section of any post on Politics or Social Issues reveals a different beast. One of ideologies. 2015 has no doubt been the "Year of the Offended". People are becoming more and more extreme on both ends. Outrage over differences in opinion even caused Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to issue a statement about offering more options for recognition of future tragedies around the world, such as Safety check and Profile picture updates.
So here we are, at the beginning of a Holiday Season, In the middle of a presidential Race, Engulfed in both Foreign and Domestic conflict and clueless about how to make things better. With every one pointing the finger, Sadly, It is my belief that things will only get worse. The one thing that can lead us out of these problems seems to be knowledge. We have to continue to educate and develop ourselves as a society, and begin to think critically, for ourselves. Too often we let media outlets, and emotions determine how we feel or who we should feel sorry for, which is not always just. Through researching, and discussions we should be able to develop better Perspectives and understanding of our surroundings, how to survive, and live amongst each other in this fast changing world. Those who lack the knowledge to handle the future will be left behind. What are some important issues that need attention in todays world and what are some solutions to the issues we as a country face both at home and overseas? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
About 2 hours away from Ferguson, Missouri is the University Of Missouri in the Town of Columbia. Within the past month the school has been under the spotlight due to protests by students. These students are protesting due to the School Presidents's lack of response to reports of Racist attacks , Threats, and Harassment on Campus. Instances included numerous accounts of African American Students being called N----r, the painting of a Swastika on a Dormitory Wall Using Human Feces.
Protests also included one student, Jonathan Butler (pictured Below) going on a Hunger Strike...
Twitter.com
A Group of Students blocking the School's President in a parade...
Cnn.com
Even the Schools' football team got involved by withholding from practicing or Playing in Games until the President Tim Wolfe Stepped Down. This event ,which put the school directly into the national spotlight, would have been devastating financially for the school to suffer and action had to be taken....
Twitter.com
On Monday November 9,2015 the University's President of more than 3 years Tim Wolfe, Resigned due to the Racial Unrest. The schools Chancellor also stepped down due to the controversy. These resignations were influenced by the school boards decision that the leadership was deemed inadequate. Critics of the protest called it Ridiculous, adding that from his perspective, Race relations are now better than ever on campus and the leadership should not be responsible for the actions of a few.
In retrospect, what happened in Missouri speaks volumes as to how the people can come together to enact change. It seems that when you threaten to disrupt these institutions financially, corrective measures become imminent. It is not favorable for any organization to be dismissive about the concerns of any of its members. This situation in particular seems to be one where if it doesn't affect you directly than it becomes of no concern, But ultimately, injustice to few is an injustice to all. Hopefully, going forward this University can develop better dialogue between the student body and administration. Students of color were not even allowed to attend the University of Missouri when was founded in1839. and it remained until 1939 when Lloyd Gaines took on the School in court to end the State Sponsored segregation. Even then, the School only created a separate school for African Americans to Attend. In Closing, it can be said that things have gotten better, but there is still much work to be done which is surprising for the year 2015. What do you think needs to be done to improve race relations in America? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below on this important topic.
Spike Lee is Back! This Time with a highly controversial film Titled "CHIRAQ". The Trailer released last week and caused a firestorm of controversy from critics both in and out of Hollywood. Lets take a look into why....
wikipedia.com
Chicago has had an ongoing problem with Gun violence. In the year 2015 Alone there have been more than 2600 Shooting Victims! Stemming from a combination of issues within the community such as lack of Jobs, Increased Gang Activity, etc. This is where the term "Chiraq" Stems from as a combination of Chicago and Iraq. Many people are not happy with this nickname in the city and don't care for its promotion. Although Chicago has very strict Gun Laws, these laws rarely stop guns from getting into the wrong hands. Chicago is otherwise known as a beautiful city with much to offer outside of the situation that is portrayed in the film, and this is where the problem lies. Many local Chicagoans expressed took to social media to express themselves...
Damn Spikey..... Chiraq isn't defined enough on that movie! It should be showing what's really going on.
Rhymefest added,
Others were upset about the casting selection and otherwise mockery of the culture as a whole. Spike Lee himself eventually responded explaining that the movie is not a Comedy, and is actually a Satire. He explained that the purpose is draw attention to the matter and otherwise use humor to further drive the point home. He has done this before in some of his other films Such as "Do The Right Thing" and "Bamboozled". Check Out his Response Below...
I think Spike Lee's Plan is working perfectly. People are talking about the subject and that is exactly what he wanted. As for the Critics, you have to look at it from the perspective of both sides. Could he have picked more accurate cast members or done more research into the actual culture to make it look more authentic? But, How can you express more outrage over the film than the actual situation? Will you be going to see it.? Chiraq the Movie releases in theaters nationwide on December 4th., 2015. Let us know your thoughts in the Comment Section Below.
Dear Conscious Community, We truly appreciate you. Your enlightenment is a gift that must continue to be shared. It is understood that sharing knowledge and expecting results can be a frustrating process, however a good teacher must be patient with its students. Imagine if you went to school on the first day class and all the teacher did was criticize you for not knowing what they were about to teach you.... imagine that. All too often this is exactly what is happening within the Conscious community. When a person gets Cancer, do we punish and demean them? The answer is No. We begin to offer treatment, so in a sense, If a person is engaged in a cancerous way of being, or pattern of thought, we should not criticize or speak condescendingly of them.
“Don't be in a hurry to condemn because he doesn't do what you do or think as you think or as fast. There was a time when you didn't know what you know today.”
-Malcolm X
Out of respect for one of our favorite intellectuals to date, we must not throw stones at the very ones we are trying to save. That is unless there is an underlying sense of disgust for what you yourself may have once been, and that needs to be addressed in another way. The Sole purpose of gaining knowledge is essentially survival. As they say, Knowledge IS power, but one must not be a control freak, or abuse such power. Being a good leader requires charisma, You have to be able to get people to buy what you are selling. It can be extremely difficult to get your point across to someone if you are making them feel inferior in the process.
It is my challenge to the "Wake Up" Community to adjust your sales pitch. Be more understanding , and realize that everyone comes to the light at their own pace and will not always see things your way immediately. Believe it or not, People actually DO want the world to get better. Terms such as "Coon", "Lost", "Sleep" or "Sheep" are destructive terms and offer no value to the development of others. I challenge you to replace these words with terms like "Unaware" or "Untaught". Assume more responsibility for the ones who you feel the need to preach to and be less judgmental of those who do not seem to Understand. Evaluate yourself and your journey first, because you weren't born knowing everything you know today. Somebody taught you too!
The World Health Organization released a major statement today concerning Cancer Research and Diet.The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) gathered a group of 22 Scientists from 10 different Countries and they evaluated the carcinogenicity of eating Red and Processed Meats. What they determined was major... According to their research eating Red Meats was determined as probably carcinogenic. However they also concluded that consumption of Processed meat IS... Carcinogenic.
Wikihow
WHO.int
According to WHO, Red Meat consists of Beef, Veal, Lamb, Mutton, Pork, Horse,and Goat. Also, "Processed" means meat that has been salted, cured, fermented, smoked or undergone any other process to enhance flavor and improve preservation. The most common Examples of these types of meats are Hot Dogs, Bacon, ham, sausages,and beef jerky. Other carcinogenic elements are added to meat through charring and cooking with extreme heat such as grilling also. The types of cancer associated with consumption of these meats were Colon Cancer, then most common, as well as Pancreatic and Prostate Cancer. It does not mean that consumption is as dangerous an other Cancer causes such as Smoking but it is definitely a risk nonetheless. In my opinion , more studies should definitely be conducted to determine if its the meat or the chemicals involved in its preparation for consumption. so we can know what specifically to avoid. Question is, Would you be willing to change your diet based on this new scientific research? What are some alternatives to Red and Processed meats that are worthy substitutes? And Is it better to avoid eating meat altogether? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Now that the weather has changed, It's time to pick up those heavier and more stylish looks for Fall and Winter. In this edition of "The Dressing Room" we take a quick look at 5 Must Have Fall/Winter Styles for the Year. We have you covered from Head to Toe, Take a look at these styles Below and let us know your Thoughts in the Comments section.
Headwear- Topping things off are the increasingly popular Wool Fedora Hats. These Hats are a Good way to keep your uppermost extremity warm and be fashionable at the same time. Very durable in terms of what they can be worn with, check out a few looks below from Original Chuck, and Larose Paris.
Original Chuck
Larose Paris
OuterWear- Shearling Jackets have been around for a while, but more fashion houses are pushing them into the spotlight. Check out a few of these Shearling Jackets from Brands like Daily Paper, Tom Ford, and Givenchy.
Daily Paper
Givenchy
Tom Ford
Shirts- Cover up your Torso this Fall/Winter season with Hooded T-Shirts. The Hooded Tee is a very useful top when it comes to coziness and style. Hooded t-shirts provide a lighter weight hood and shirt combo that can be worn in a variety of ways. Here are a few looks below from brands such as Cross Colours, Dravus Asher, and Empyre Down under
Dravus Asher
Empire Down Under
Cross Colours
Pants-Distressed Biker Denim blew up last year but this year people are really starting to find their value. These jeans provide a much more lively feel to the wearer. This separates classic style from modern as the new generations seek to define themselves , distressed biker denim seems to be the new wave. Brands like Embellish NYC, and Balmain are top of the totem pole in this department.
Embellish NYC
Embellish NYC
Balmain/H&M
Footwear-The Chelsea Boot is a very timeless shoe. This look is not for everyone, but if you can pull them off, you are guaranteed to be satisfied with your decision to purchase them. A very clean fusion of sneaker and ankle boot, The Chelsea Boot is holding it down for the footwear Category. Here are a few pictured below from Brands Common Projects and Facto.
November 27th 2015 Marks the release date for The Air Jordan 8 "Aqua". This just so happens to be my personal favorite Air Jordan of All time. I was able to pick up a retro 2007 pair from eBay for a decent price in order to avoid the chaos that is Black Friday. The Quality of the older pairs seems to be higher than even the most recent "Remastered " releases.
From the Color scheme to the Straps, From the bottom to the Logo on the Tongue, there is nothing I don't like about this sneaker. Very unique in terms of design, this was one of Tinker Hatfield's finest creations. Check out the review video below complete with an on feet look at the Air Jordan 8 "Aqua" and let us know your thoughts on the sneaker in the comments.
Rhymefest
Lil Bibby
AlmightySo
