Will the New Jersey Nets move to Brooklyn fail?

As a born Brooklynite who now resides in Jersey, the idea of the New Jersey Nets moving to Brooklyn is so exciting and great for the city. Although, I'm not a NJ Nets fan - I can't really stand to see them play since Jason Kidd, Tayshon Prince, and Kenyon Martin days. I think the idea of Brooklyn having their own team is just a good look for obvious reasons, (the Knicks suck). With the help of Nets owners Bruce Ratner and rapper Jay-Z (who grew up in Marcy Projects) they need to seal the deal, settle all the logistics and make it happen. The move date was set for the 2009-2010 season, now I hear its been delayed again for the 2010-2011 season. Only time will tell. So much speculation has been surfacing regarding this acquistion to building construction, zoning and eminent domain issues; to see it fail will be such a disappointment.

Brooklyn Nets Fan,
ATM

New Music Tuesdays - Brandy, Common & Musiq Soulchild

I know it's Thursday, but I wanted a few days to hear some of the artist's work. Well, the long-awaited album from Brandy is here and so far not bad. Typical Brandy vibe with nice production from long-time producer/friend Rodney Jerkins. The album is very intimate and personal and a reflection of her recent troubles she overcame in the media after the deadly car accident she was involved in, caused and was sued for. Things were kept pretty hush, hush on that end but glad to hear she's back. Much Luv.

As for Musiq Soulchild, haven't had a chance to listen to CD yet but I'm sure I won't be disappointed. Musiq stays true to his element and craft and never seems to let his fans down. I like the new single "ifuleave" ft. Mary J. Blige (but anything Mary I like anyway!), so pardon me if I appear to be a bit bias :)

Nevertheless, I'm a bit disappointed in myself since I'm not in touch with Common's new joint being a "fan" and all. I like his swagger and Common represents true hip hop. Keep doing your thing brother. You have my support regardless.

Stay tuned as I feature upcoming reviews for Jamie Foxx's "Intuition" and Keyshia Cole's "A Different Me".

Peace & Love,
ATM

Featured in Kitchen & Bath Ideas - Jan/Feb 2009 Issue

As a fairly new homeowner (less than 5 years), I have always been interested in real estate and its potential rewards whether your in it for the long haul or just for an investment to flip in the next few years. For me it's a mixture of both. I got in right as the market started to take a turn for the worse and I was very fortunate because I got a deal for what it's worth. However, considering the market right now I'm probably just breaking even in terms of value. With that said, I'm not discouraged. I'm still going to operate according to plan and if I do nothing else I am going to fully upgrade my kitchen before I sell it. Real Estate 101, kitchens and bathrooms sell a home and influences the decisions of a potential buyer. Check out the Q&A section in Kitchen and Bath Ideas - Jan/Feb 2009 issue. My kitchen upgrade question is featured in next month's issue. Great sound investment advice for any homeowner especially new ones. The answer solidified everything I practically knew but glad to know I'm on the right track!

Syleena Johnson - New Joint

One of the best keep secrets in R&B. As always, Syleena keeps it real and sings from the heart about all the drama women face in relationships. Check out new single "Shoo Fly". Album hits stores January '09.

Diddy Scared of Sarah Palin - YouTube

Folks, this is hilarious. Check out this video of Diddy spoofing Sarah Palin as the "Boogey Man". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70wGnx_lZio Gotta love it!

ATM

Cop Kills Self after Taser Kills Man

An emotionally disturbed Bedford Stuyvesant man fell to his death last week after a Lt. ordered an officer to taser the man while standing on a ten foot ledge. After many in the community viewed the incident, it prompted pressure from the NYPD to reinforce training on the use of stun guns and the mentally ill. As a result, the Lt. had been stripped of his gun and badge. In a unfortunate turn of events, the Lt. committed suicide today on his 46th birthday. Ironically, the Brooklyn man was laid to rest today. My prayers go out to the families.

Link contains graphic material...viewer discretion is advised.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMzRsakY4wg

Ben Gordon Accepts Deal & Marbury Out

I know it's football season but basketball season is right around the corner. Me being the female b-ball fan that I am here's some news for you. Chicago's Ben Gordon who's a restricted free agent reluctantly signs $6.4M deal for 1-year with Bulls. His hopes of a long term contract never panned out and the idea of playing overseas was rejected. Native of Mt. Vernon, NY and one of the star players who led UConn to the NCAA Final 4 Championship in 2004 in my opinion never really showcased his talent at the next level. Well Ben, keep your head up.

In other news, Stephon Marbury was released from the NY Knicks last week and paid $21M, the worst in Knick history. It's time to grow up Stephon. Get a grip and keep it moving. Another native New Yorker from Coney Island, I grew up watching him play in high school. A waste of talent because he can't keep his ego in check!

And for all you Lakers fans, Kobe bragging already. Stay tuned. More to come...

New Music Tuesdays - Hot Releases

Hey Ya'll, can't forget to mention the long-awaited releases of 3 hot artists this past Tuesday. Jennifer Hudson, Robin Thicke, and T.I. They've been blowing up their singles on the airwaves and now the wait it finally over! Only heard snippets of each so far....So hit me up and let me know what you folks think.

Peace & Love,

ATM

What's In It For Us - $700B Bailout Passes Senate

While the senate reached an agreement to bailout Wall Street, they need to come to up with a plan to bailout Main Street. While the middle class is suffering the rich gets richer. We're the ones who will eventually get hit with the tax bill. What's REALLY in it for us? Seriously.

Katie Couric Interviews Sarah Palin

In the lastest installment of Sarah Palin's interview with Katie Couric she talks about abortion, global warming, energy reform, evolution and science; topics she can identify with and feels more comfortable talking about. Let's just watch and see what all the chatter is about comes tomorrow's debate with Joe Biden. Word is she's looking into Biden's track record, speaking with policy advisors and putting together her speaking points. She doesn't do very well under pressure and boy she's gonna need all the help she can get. Palin doesn't get my sympathy vote, she's no Hilary. Can she put up a good fight?

Oprah's Mom Countersues for $156K Store Bill

Okay, this may not matter to some but its news to me. Apparently, Oprah's mother got behind in her credit card bill so the store is suing her. Well mama Winfrey said "hell to the no" and filed a counterclaim for the $156K bill stating she shouldn't have to pay because the store took advantage of her due to her "lack of knowledge, ability and/or capacity" when creating her credit account. Now, is it just me, but mama knew what she was doing and I don't fault the store for giving her an account. They probably figured, it's Oprah Winfrey's mom...Oprah's got the money so she can take care the bill. If I was a multi-millionaire I would pay my mother's bills. Wouldn't you? Oprah, go ahead and chalked this one up girlfriend, spare the publicity and let this be a lesson learned Mama.

Peace,
ATM

What's The Cost

While the Bush Administration is still at arms in finding a solution to this economic mess were in, the meltdown only gets worse. WAMU goes under Chase takes over. AIG files for bankruptcy and Warren Buffet gives Goldman Sachs $5 billion. Everyone seems to feel the pinch. With that said, how much is all this really going to cost us? You do the math....