August 03, 2017
By Brittany K. Jackson
Contributing Writer
Executive produced by author, entrepreneur and social activist Russell Simmons, “Romeo is Bleeding” is an award-winning documentary that candidly explores the history of crime and separation among “turfs” in Richmond, CA. The film tracks the life of a drug-dealing rebel turned poet named Donté Clark, who , through his artistic expression, manages to transform the lives of youth in his community.
In the film, viewers find that the longstanding “turf wars” between Central and North Richmond were rooted in much more than what meets the eye. The documentary exposes racially charged “red zoning” laws, created years back by the state and federal legislatures, that would contribute to the high measures of Black-on-Black crime. These tricky laws, along with the Chevron oil refinery being placed in the heart of the Richmond community – and the subsequent sky-high asthma rates among Black children, have proven to be an environmental death sentence for Richmond youth.
Recently, the Sentinel caught up with the cast and crew of “Romeo is Bleeding” at the Montalban Theater in Hollywood. We spoke with Simmons, who says the reason he took on the project was to show survival through the lens of art. “It reminds me of so many stories, of so many people, who try to survive through art and did, and changed their lives because of art,” Simmons said.
In an unorthodox approach to Shakespeare, Clark begins to write his own adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet,” employing the help of local youth artists and poets form the doc’s imagery. Together, they parallel the romantic tragedy, with their dire experiences, by speaking out on the system’s intent to fail them and the improbable unity needed amongst the rival turfs to overcome the circumstances and prevail.
Clark says that while each generation of Richmond natives has a different take on what occurred, no one could identify reasons the self-inflicted crimes continue to ensue. “I realized that violence has been going on since the beginning and it’s up to us to figure out how far we are willing to go to stop it for ourselves,” Clark stated.
Figuring it out is exactly what members of Richmond’s RAW Talent Program are doing. Clark was initially chosen to participate in the program by teacher Molly Raynor, and now works religiously to mentor and channel the talents and emotions of incoming youth.
Director of the film, Jason Zeldes, says that presenting Donté’s prose on full display was not only the key to telling Richmond’s story, but the platform captures a poetic proficiency found in many underserved communities. “Poetry is such a powerful, positive outlet, you can really speak your soul and work through a lot of complex emotions,” Zeldes said. “I hope part of this project is really making poetry cool again,” he continued.
Clark says that the RAW Talent Program was something that started organically by allowing youth to benefit from personal and communal transformation. “For nine years, I dedicated my life to let this be that practice that hopefully brings a lot of healing to everybody,” Clark declared. Yet, as a resident of North Richmond, Clark’s life is in jeapoardy daily, as he travels through rival territory in Central Richmond, where the life-changing program is locacted. Simmons says this kind of bravery gives birth to change. “I think that people like Donté give example, and by example, they learn. The Kendrick Lamar’s of the world, the Chance the Rappers, all of them, they matter, and they’re letting people know it’s possible,” he continued.
“Romeo is Bleeding” opened in theatres on July 28, 2017 and is currently being screened nationwide. For exclusive interviews with the cast and crew, visit lasentinel.net.
August 03, 2017
Aries March 21 - April 19
If you feel in the mood to take life by storm, it could be due to potent energies in your leisure sector. This dynamic influence might boost your confidence and make you feel like you can conquer the world. Self-expression is very important, too, so if you feel moved to start a hobby or explore a sport or other interest, this is the time to go ahead. Also, a compelling offer could be a reason to collaborate with someone on a major project.
Taurus April 20 - May 20
As Venus, your guide planet, enters Cancer early this week, it brings a diplomatic and soothing note to interactions. This can be a very positive influence in personal relationships and business, as you’ll be ready to listen and willing to negotiate. There’s also a lot happening in your domestic sector, which could involve remodeling a property or perhaps doing some major DIY jobs. You’ll likely be very pleased with the results even if you have to put up with some inconvenience.
Gemini May 21 - June 20
As Venus dances into your personal financial sector, this easygoing planet could encourage a more relaxed approach to money matters. You might be more inclined to splurge on small luxuries rather than hold back and save your money for a rainy day. But with a very powerful tie between Jupiter and Pluto in the cards this week, you may also feel compelled to pursue a project that requires some investment at the outset. Be sure it’s worth it before you go ahead.
Cancer June 21 - July 22
An instinctive urge to connect may be due to the move of Venus into Cancer this week. You might even consider a reunion with old friends or getting back in touch with family members you haven’t seen in some time. Fond memories might also play an important part in shaping your plans. On a more dynamic note, you may have reached the stage when something needs to be done regarding a family situation. Persuading others to listen could be another matter, however.
Leo July 23 - August 22
You seem to be back on form and ready to share your love of life with the world. Putting some of your best creative ideas into action should bring you a deep feeling of satisfaction now and in coming weeks. This is a great opportunity to let others know what you can do and to get involved in projects that have deep meaning for you. Regarding one idea, it might be easy to take on too much, so think about this before committing.
Virgo August 23 - September 22
Your social life has extra sizzle this week as lovely Venus encourages you to connect with old and new friends and generally get involved. A powerful influence in a subtle sector might encourage you to renew your relationship with your deeper thoughts and feelings. One way to do this is by making a note of your dreams, as these may contain powerful guidance for you. On another note, a relationship could be costing you more than you
Libra September 23 - October 22
With Jupiter in Libra making an uncomfortable angle to Pluto in your home zone, a family issue could come to a head in the coming week, which means it could result in a breakthrough. However, you’ll need to be especially tactful and diplomatic, perhaps more than usual, to help make this a reality. With Venus, your guide planet, moving into the topmost sector of your chart, your authoritative suggestions could make a difference and bring this to a helpful conclusion.
Scorpio October 23 - November 21
While you may look confident on the surface, deep down you could feel very differently. With Jupiter in a quiet sector of your chart aligning with Pluto in your communication zone, you might not want to hear your intuition even if it’s speaking loud and clear. But you might need to if you’re to resolve a deeply personal issue. The move of Venus into your friendship zone suggests that talking it over with a trusted friend could give you the confidence to do the right thing.
Sagittarius November 22 - December 21
How much is a certain association really costing you? You may find out this week. A potent transit involving Jupiter, your personal planet, could make it very clear how much you’re giving and getting back in return. If you’re unhappy about this, it might be time to do something about it. But to resolve this in the best way, make sure your motives are really helping the situation. On another note, an opportunity may show up that’s too good to miss.
Capricorn December 22 - January 19
As electric Uranus rewinds in your domestic sector, unexpected news or events could keep you hopping. This influence will continue, so it could coincide with changing situations linked to family dynamics or perhaps a move. Venus enters your sector of relationships, and this soothing influence can help smooth over any difficulties and make it easier to negotiate a compromise. However, another more compelling tie could make you eager to accomplish a goal when a more relaxed approach may work better.
Aquarius January 20 - February 18
Beliefs could be an issue as Jupiter in your sector of higher wisdom clashes with Pluto in your spiritual zone. If you’re holding on to emotions and ways of thinking from the past, you may resist an opportunity to break away from them and adopt a philosophy that helps you enjoy greater success. Hanging on could take more energy than letting go and moving to the next level. If you’re willing to discuss this, a friend may have some pertinent words of advice.
Pisces February 19 - March 20
With Venus moving into your sector of leisure this week, delightful options may unfold for dates and romantic outings. This may be one of the better times to take a short break with your loved one, as your relationship could move to a new level by doing so. On another note, you could find yourself in conflict with a controlling or very persuasive person. This is your opportunity to stand your ground and turn the situation around so that it no longer bothers you.
August 03, 2017
By LYNN ELBER
AP Television Writer
Tracy Morgan has a ready answer when asked about getting a second chance after his near-fatal crash three years ago.
“Thank God. That’s all I’ve gotta say,” Morgan told a TV critics’ meeting Thursday, where he was promoting his new TBS comedy “The Last O.G.”
In 2014, the former “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live” star suffered severe head trauma when a truck slammed into the back of the limo van he was riding in. Comedian James McNair, his friend and collaborator, was killed.
Morgan said his brush with death had a profound effect on him. That includes the kind of sitcom he’s doing. In “The Last O.G.,” Morgan plays an ex-con, Tray, who finds the life and the Brooklyn, New York, neighborhood he left behind is gone.
Morgan has surrounded himself with a strong cast, including “Girls Trip” breakout star Tiffany Haddish and Cedric the Entertainer. Why didn’t he just go with a “Tracy Morgan Show” that gave him all the laughs?
“Maybe I’m just a better man since the accident. Maybe I’m just a better man,” he said. “It ain’t about me. It’s bigger than me.”
He indicated the physical effects of the crash may not be entirely in the past, saying people around him on set makes sure he takes regular breaks during the workday.
“The Last O.G.” co-stars Haddish as Tray’s ex-girlfriend, Shay, the mother of twins he didn’t know he had. In the 15 years he was imprisoned, Shay moved on, marrying a successful man (Ryan Gaul) who is helping raise the children.
Gaul’s character is white, and Morgan said the sitcom is deliberately inclusive.
New York is home to more than black people, and all lives matter, he said.
July 27, 2017
By MESFIN FEKADU
AP Music Writer
Kendrick Lamar’s “Humble” is giving the rapper reason to brag: He is the leader of the MTV Video Music Awards with eight nominations.
Lamar and his No.1 hit song are nominated for video of the year, artist of the year, best hip-hop video and other prizes. Katy Perry and The Weeknd are behind Lamar with five nominations, while Bruno Mars is up for four Moonmen.
The 2017 VMAs will air live Aug. 27 from the Forum in Inglewood, California.
Other video of the year nominees includes Mars’ “24K Magic,” the Weeknd’s “Reminder,” Alessia Cara’s “Scars to Your Beautiful” and “Wild Thoughts,” the hit by DJ Khaled, Rihanna and Bryson Tiller released last month.
A surprise snub was the ubiquitous “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee – which includes a remix with Justin Bieber – as well as Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You.” Both songs topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart this year.
Sheeran will compete for artist of the year though, along with Lamar, Mars, Ariana Grande, Lorde and the Weeknd. This year MTV eliminated gender categories like best male and female video and opted for the artist of the year prize.
Lamar’s other nominations include best direction, art direction, choreography, cinematography and visual effects. Videos eligible for nomination had to be released between June 25, 2016 through June 23, 2017.
Other acts who scored nominations include the Chainsmokers, Migos, Harry Styles, Selena Gomez, Fifth Harmony and Big Sean.