The Nation Review is one of the Republican party’s most enduring and authoritative publications. Today it has fired one of it’s most popular writers. John Derbyshire has been terminated for posting an overtly racist article. The piece was written as a response to articles written by black columnists all over the country, concerning conversations they are forced to have with their children regarding law enforcement. These articles were written in the aftermath of the Trayvon Martin shooting and the black authors reported having to advise their children on the proper demeanor they should assume when speaking with police officers and the fear they harbor about the potential for violence against their children. Mr. Derby, like many conservative columnists apparently found these conversations to be absurd but was inspired by these pieces to reveal the conversations he has with his children. In the piece, Derbyshire, tells his children to avoid blacks at nearly all costs. He tells them that they should never choose to live amongst African Americans or even move into a city with predominantly African American leaders. He instructs his children never to help African Americans, even if they seem to be in need. He regards most African Americans to be lacking in intelligence. He offers a particularly interesting insight into his own conservative perspective regarding African American politicians. He tells his children to avoid voting for black leaders and if they ever find themselves considering such an awful option, to scrutinize the black leader to a greater degree then he would a white leader. The most sobering aspect of Mr. Derbyshire’s piece is that it offers a frightening window that may give us insight into the inexplicably virulent opposition facing President Obama. Despite Obama’s overtly pro-American rhetoric; Despite his uniformly centrist policies he has been met with overt hatred from a right wing that seems determined to see him as an existential threat to the nation. Mr. Derbyshire’s advice included:

 Avoid concentrations of blacks not all known to you personally.

Stay out of heavily black neighborhoods.

If planning a trip to a beach or amusement park at some date, find out whether it is likely to be swamped with blacks on that date (neglect of that one got me the closest I have ever gotten to death by gunshot).

Do not attend events likely to draw a lot of blacks.

If you are at some public event at which the number of blacks suddenly swells, leave as quickly as possible.

Do not settle in a district or municipality run by black politicians.

Before voting for a black politician, scrutinize his/her character much more carefully than you would a white.

Do not act the Good Samaritan to blacks in apparent distress, e.g., on the highway.

If accosted by a strange black in the street, smile and say something polite but keep moving

Even more offensive was Derbyshire’s blunt declaration that he views certain “kinds” of blacks as having a certain utility in life. He admits that he holds friendships with African Americans, specifically so that he cannot be called a racist. He suggests that one of the reasons his children should seek friendships with African Americans, is so that they can use them as a shield of protection or “amulet” against those who perceive the truth of their hidden racist views. He expounds for his children by stating that:

In that pool of forty million, there are nonetheless many intelligent and well-socialized blacks. (I’ll use IWSB as an ad hoc abbreviation.) You should consciously seek opportunities to make friends with IWSBs. In addition to the ordinary pleasures of friendship, you will gain an amulet against potentially career-destroying accusations of prejudice.

Be aware, however, that there is an issue of supply and demand here. Demand comes from organizations and businesses keen to display racial propriety by employing IWSBs, especially in positions at the interface with the general public—corporate sales reps, TV news presenters, press officers for government agencies, etc.—with corresponding depletion in less visible positions. There is also strong private demand from middle- and upper-class whites for personal bonds with IWSBs, for reasons given in the previous paragraph and also (next paragraph) as status markers.

Unfortunately the demand is greater than the supply, so IWSBs are something of a luxury good, like antique furniture or corporate jets: boasted of by upper-class whites and wealthy organizations, coveted by the less prosperous

This admission is most concerning because it feeds into a narrative about African American conservative republicans that will certainly be used to further stain their reputations and curb much needed political diversity in the black community. His words give weight to a particular interpretation of the candidacies of men like Herman Cain, or Allen West who have been ridiculed for their conservative political affiliations (and controversial statements of their own regarding their own feelings about fellow African Americans).

The National Review has fired Mr. Derbyshire, however they released a peculiar statement regarding his dismissal which reluctantly rebuked his opinions but offered an odd defense of his intellect, character and perspective.

Anyone who has read Derb in our pages knows he’s a deeply literate, funny, and incisive writer. I direct anyone who doubts his talents to his delightful first novel, “Seeing Calvin Coolidge in a Dream,” or any one of his “Straggler” columns in the books section of NR. Derb is also maddening, outrageous, cranky, and provocative. His latest provocation, in a webzine, lurches from the politically incorrect to the nasty and indefensible. We never would have published it, but the main reason that people noticed it is that it is by a National Review writer. Derb is effectively using our name to get more oxygen for views with which we’d never associate ourselves otherwise. So there has to be a parting of the ways. Derb has long danced around the line on these issues, but this column is so outlandish it constitutes a kind of letter of resignation. It’s a free country, and Derb can write whatever he wants, wherever he wants. Just not in the pages of NR or NRO, or as someone associated with NR any longer.

In it’s statement, the National Review seems to suggest that this was some sort of humor in response to the conversations African American parents routinely admit having with their children, which some conservatives have regarded as absurd. The NR never explains why Mr. Derbyshire could have been inspired to satirize the fear African Americans have of interactions with law enforcement or random acts of violence against their children. They never fully explain why such fear is considered to be humorous. The entire incident harms a party which has admitted its hardship in attracting and retaining a diverse membership. Leaders like Jeb Bush have chastised the party for failing to moderate controversial rhetoric aimed at minorities. This incident will surely do little to improve the Republican Party’s position amongst African Americans, or Latino’s. Given the traditional tone and tenor of Derbyshire’s screed it could add to the narrative that in addition to being consumed by bigotry, the GOP is similarly steeped in Sexist thought as well. As a party already accused of waging a War Against Women, this will likely buttress the claims that the GOP has simply failed to enter the modern era.

The Women of America will be given a special gift from Ebony Magazine, on Mother’s Day. The First Lady, Michelle Obama, will dawn the cover of the publication, in celebration of Mother’s Day. The Issue, which debut’s on April 17, 2012, features the First Lady in a gorgeous and flattering blue dress which reveals her signature, sculpted arms. The first lady uses the interview to discuss her Let’s Move Campaign, which emphasizes the importance of physical activity and exercise. The First Lady explains that exercise is crucial to the President’s ability to handle the pressures of the life in the White House. Ebony offers readers a rare glimpse into the intimate relationship between the President and his daughters, as the First Lady dishes on some of his interactions with his daughters. The Ebony portrait of the First Family is one of the most revealing and will offer fans and foes of the President a new vantage on an often misunderstood family.

Will the next “Bachelor” be an African American? ABC has yet to confirm that it has indeed selected Lamar Hurd, a Portland based sportscaster as it’s next bachelor on it’s hit TV series, “The Bachelor”. Lamar was apparently not seeking the coveted title, yet his assistant submitted an application for him. The fate of Hurd and all of the other Bachelor wannabes rests with the shows producers. Hurd would be a risk. Its unclear how the shows audience will respond to having an African American love interest. Some speculate that it could drive the shows remaining viewers away. Others suggest that this is just the shot in the arm that the Bachelor needs. They suggest that the show has become stilted, scripted, predictable and dull. It seems odd that America is ready for an African American President, but we question the nation’s readiness for a black “Bachelor”. This could simply be another example of how the nation evolves much faster then its most powerful brokers. Is America Ready For A Black Bachelor? I think we can safely assure ABC that we are. There is no need to hem, haw and second guess. America will be just fine. ABC should base it’s decision solely on Mr. Hurd’s qualifications. Is he rich (as the Bachelor must be). Is he a compelling character for television? Is he better for the role, then the other applicants? If the answer is yes (ABC) Cast Him. If he isn’t well then, maybe next season!

Worthy Magazine, reported that rumors were circulating about a possible romance brueing between Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. Well, they are no longer rumors! West is known for  therapeutically emoting in song, as he has on numerous tracks. But the lyrics from his latest song, THERAFLU are unusually clear in their meaning. In what can only be described as an attempt to kill two birds with one stone, Kanye addresses the loss of Amber Rose to upstart rapper-Wiz Khalifa and his feelings for the reality vixen Kim Kardashian. In response to claims that Kanye might have beef with Wiz, West states bluntly;

“AND THE WHOLE INDUSTRY WANT TO F*** YOUR OLD CHICK, ONLY N**** I GOT RESPECT FOR IS WIZ

AND I ADMIT I FELL IN LOVE WITH KIM, ROUND THE SAME TIME SHE FELL IN LOVE WITH HIM WELL THATS COOL, BABYGIRL DO YOUR THING; LUCKY I AINT HAD JAY DROP HIM FROM THE TEAM”

Ladies and Gentlemen, Kaye West-In his own words!

For non-sports fans, Chris Humphries, Kim K’s ex plays for the New Jersey Nets, which is partially owned by JAY-Z. That effectively makes Jay-Z, Chris’s boss, hence the phrase “Lucky I aint had Jay Drop Him From The Team”. Kim and Kanye were recently seen out at the Hunger Games together and Kim was later seen leaving Kanye’s love shack that night. As we reported Kanye recently flew the reality star out to his fashion show. Rumors have persisted that the two were flirting with the idea of dating. West’s new “Ode” to Kim confirms his feelings on the matter, but a mystery remains concerning how Kim feels about the mega-producer. Kanye has confirmed in deed, gifts and now song how he feels about Kardashian but she has yet to acquiesce or definitively rebuff his affection. In fact, Kardashian recently confessed to having a very liberal definition of the term Soul-Mate, when she expressed her belief that the soul needs different people at different phases in life. While other publications are pronouncing the duo an official item, we are still skeptical. It’s clear that if it were up to Kanye they would be an item. In fact we are pretty sure that Kanye has begun sketching out his designs for Kim’s next wedding gown (and a matching tux for himself). But we are wondering if Kim’s Soul Has any real need or desire, for Kanye West! It seems like she is the tentative partner in this courtship.

Worthy Readers, Do you think that Kim shares Kanye’s feelings? And if not, why isn’t she interested?

 

Meagan Good, is ENGAGED! Good has quite a list of stellar films to her credit. Roles in successful endeavors like Jumping the Broom, Stomp The Yard, the Love Guru and Deliver Us From Eva. Her new fiancé, DeVon Franklin, also has quite a filmography to his credit. The Preacher/Producer/ Sony Executive was behind the production of The Pursuit of Happiness and the Jayden Smith version of the Karate Kid. The two began dating after wrapping production of Jumping The Broom, which Devon produced. WORTHY-Well Wishes go out to Meagan Good and her soon to be husband.

 

Augusta National Golf Club is quite possibly the most prestigious golf club in the nation. The exclusive club hosts the Master’s Tournament, Golf’s most coveted title. Most golfers would give anything to have one of the Club’s Green Jackets, reserved only for winners. A part of the club’s exclusivity is it’s restriction that women cannot be members of the famous club. This arcane policy has survived under the radar because of Augusta’s status as a private club with a closely guarded secret membership. However, the club’s membership became national news when the club refused membership to one of the Primary sponsors of the Master’s Tournament. Each year, Augusta gives a membership to the C.E.O of IBM which sponsors the Masters Tourney. Yet this year, Augusta has refused to issue a membership to the current C.E.O of IBM, who happens to be a woman. Despite giving a membership to IBM’s previous four C.E.O.’s Augusta withheld a similar offer to Ginni Rommety, who became C.E.O. in January.

The President issued a statement through his Press Secretary, expressing his belief that “”We are kind of long past the time when women should be excluded from anything”. “His personal opinion is that women should be admitted”. How Augusta will respond to the mounting pressure remains to be seen but as a private club, Augusta can discriminate. If the public is truly outraged at their policies, it will have to show Augusta that such behavior is unacceptable in America. The Master’s Tournament is advertising driven which means that if golf fans are truly offended by Augusta, there is only one way to effect their bottom line.

Worthy Magazine will be live tweeting our impressions of ABC’s new drama, SCANDAL! The combination of a Shonda Rhimes production, and Kerri Washington as the lead actress has us incredibly excited! We are never short of opinions, here at Worthy Magazine. We invite you to join us on Twitter and hear what our staff and fearless Editor are thinking, minute by minute! (http://twitter.com/intent/user?screen_name=Worthy_Magazine)

 

We Told You They Were Coming and Now They Have Arrived (well, almost)! This could be the next IPAD and the next revolution in consumer technology.Google, the search engine giant that transformed the internet with its innovative search features, and the way we travel with Google Maps, is poised to transform the way we see the world. Google is known for tackling tremendous advances in technology in it’s mythical Google X-Labs. The most exciting invention coming out of the mythic, Roswell like-secret laboratory has been code named, Project Glass. The technical term for the technology is augmented reality and its applications are endless. Project Glass is Google’s attempt to create completely transparent glasses or shades that will display useful data and information within the field of vision of the person dawning the fashion accessory. They have often been called The Terminator Shades, as they bear a striking similarity in function to the Sci-Fi movie. Just as the terminator’s field of vision was filled with immensely interesting and eminently useful information about the wearabouts of Jon Conner, or the Identity of a stranger, or the vulnerability of an assailant the Google Glasses will feed you information about your surroundings by anticipating your needs. Imagine walking past a historic building and in the corner of your transparent frames, interesting tidbits about the landmark might pop up (like a VH1 video). Or perhaps you’re lost and in need of directions. Instead of whipping out your phone and walking with your head down, your glasses , un-beknownced to anyone around you, would display a totally unobtrusive arrow telling you which direction to walk in. Imagine going to company functions in which you are expected to recognize everyone by face. Instead of cramming all night, you might dawn your Google Shades and as each person approached, your glasses might feed you relevant information on them. The Google Glasses, will also function as a cell phone, allowing you to receive video calls right in the lens frame of your shades. The applications are endless. We at Worthy imagined the benefits to women’s safety if a feature could allow your shades to record and store the faces of people you encounter while out and about. What criminal would take the chance of assaulting a young woman wearing these shades. Project Glass is still in development. The glasses will likely be tested this summer by a very lucky set of consumers and rumors are suggesting that they could go on sale as early as the end of the year.

Worthy Readers, let your imaginations run wild and come up with a fantastic use for these augmented reality glasses, and post your idea below. Will You Consider Buying These?

 

Heavy D, one of Hip Hops Founding Fathers died of a Pulmonary Embolism, caused by a blood clot that likely travelled from his leg and to his heart-as a result of a long flight from Europe. The “Over Weight Lover” was performing at the Michael Jackson tribute concert in Wales (according to TMZ). Pulmonary Embolisms are often caused by long periods of inactivity or immobilization. It is unfortunate that such a benign activity was able to end the life of a true legend. Heavy D helped establish Hip Hop as a mainstream force with hits like “Now That We Found Love”, which he released with his signature group, Heavy D and The Boys. Later in his career, “Heave” continued to produce music. He was the principle force behind the first release off of NAS’S new album. The title track is called the Don, and Nas gives the legendary rapper final props.