It seem that lil wayne will not be treated with a celebrity status while in Rikers. According to TMZ, the rapper (real name: Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr.) has been instructed by prison officials not to sign a single autograph while incarcerated. The rapper is serving one year for a gun charge stemming from a 2007 arrest.

Manny Pacquiao dominated his fight Saturday (March 13) in Dallas against Joshua Clottey. The Pac-Man training paid off as he pounding him with over 1,200 punches in 12 rounds. In the end, Pac-Man won the decision. Two judges scored it 119-109, the other 120-108.

After discussing the fight, HBO Boxing’s Max Kellerman asked Pacquiao about his future boxing plans, specifically if a bout against Mayweather would be forthcoming. Manny replied by saying he’s wants it, but it’s in the hands of Floyd.

In a recent interview, 50 cent stated Europe’s musical tastes are affecting him.

“I went to a nightclub after-party. It was different music after a while,” 50 Cent said, recognizing that the club altered their set to play his own catalog. “The music they were playin’ before they were playin’ the music I created was more up-tempo, more Dance. I wanted to make a song like that, so I went into the studio. Because I’m travelin’ with my live band, I took the band with me and we sequenced it and recorded the actual record while we was out there.”

50 cent did not reveal producers or additional information, but confirmed his project’s name, Black Magic.

Tight End Benjamin Watson from the Patriots has now signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the Cleveland Browns. Watson visited with the Seahawks on Monday and was in Cleveland on Thursday. The Browns didn’t let him get away, as Watson signed the contract before boarding his return flight this morning.

“I had high expectations,” said Kevin Lee, Vice President of Brand and Business Development for Monster, of the headphones. “We surpassed my expectations. We released the Beats by Dre in 2008, and it took a good 12 months for it to hit the masses.”

The release of Jay-Z ’s “D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)” on Blueprint 3, T-Pain was offended. He later insulted Jay-Z during a show in Las Vegas. Recently, T-Pain spoke on the subject and noted that the feud is over.

“We talked at the Grammys,” he recently told MTV. “It was a pretty big thing. Word for word, he said, ‘That’s messed up the way you took that song.’ I’m a [crazy] dude, so we gonna take the song like that. That’s how we take songs. He was like, ‘I didn’t mean nothing by that.’ I was like, ‘I already put out my apology song ["More Careful"]. So there you go. My bad. I apologize. Apologize for taking the song like that.’ We shook hands, did the little chest bump. That was the end of that.”

McNabb and Owens are teaming up on a basketball court instead of a football field in the new season of Spike TV’s “Pros vs. Joes.” McNabb (Syracuse), Owens (Tennessee-Chattanooga) and Antonio Gates (Kent State) will face Hakeem Olajuwon, Kenny Smith and Rick Fox.

T.O. helped McNabb and the Philadelphia Eagles reach the Super Bowl in 2004, but a feud ended their relationship and Owens was cut midway through the ‘05 season. McNabb has been the subject of trade rumors since the Eagles lost to the Cowboys in the first round of the playoffs. He’s led Philadelphia to five NFC championship games and one Super Bowl in 11 seasons.

Reality TV star Joseph “Jo Jo” Simmons recently dropped his debut mixtape, titled Most Improved Player under his rap name, Young Simmons. The rapper, son of rap legend Joseph “Reverend “Run” Simmons, teamed with DJ Spin King to drop the 21-track mixtape under the name Young Simmons.

Young Simmons tackles the issue of his family’s fame on “Related to Russell” and addresses his arrest for possession of marijuana in May 2009, over Waka Flocka Flames’ “O Let’s Do It.”

Lil Wayne is finally set to begin serving his sentence from a gun charge he received in 2007. It was originally set to be sentenced in February of 2010, but his sentencing was delayed due to Weezy’s needed dental surgery.

Wayne’s legal troubles aren’t over yet since he is still facing charges in Arizona after his tour bus was searched by DEA agents and they found nearly 4 ounces of marijuana, more than an ounce of cocaine, 41 grams of ecstasy and various drug paraphernalia. This trail starts March 30.

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Featured above is the men’s Nike AF1 Premium black/white. This sneaker has a jell black sole, patent leather toe box and swoosh, and perforated leather sides. This sneaker will be available in select Villa locations April 10, 2010.

Featured above are the men’s Pole skip hi sneakers. These sneakers are seen here in different plaid colorways. These sneaker are now available at select VILLA locations.

Featured above are the men’s Polo boating shoes. These shoes will give you the original Polo classic look you’ve been dying for. These shoes are now available at select VILLA locations.

Featured above are the men’s Pole skip sneakers. These sneaker come in a white/navy, red/navy/ white, and navy/red/white colorways. These sneaker are now available at select VILLA locations.

Featured above is the kids Nike Air max 95. This sneaker is seen here in a pink/orange/white/grey colorway. This sneaker is now available at select VILLA locations.

Featured above is the kids Air Jordan True Flight which resembles the Air Jordan VII! This kick features a White leather upper with some nice Metallic Silver and Perfect Pink in all the right places! Two nice features on these are the Pink speckled mid-sole and laces which are both Metallic Silver. Available now at select VILLA locations.

Featured above are the Saucony Shadow 6000s. These shoes are known to be the top of its class when it comes to cushioning and control. You can get your hands on these hot sneakers at select VILLA locations.

So far it has been 10 years since the first release of the Nike Flightposite. This shoe is combined with a carbon fiber mid-foot and zip up exterior which is less than mesmerizing when Kevin Garnett wore it during his time in Minnesota. The formerly known as Flightposite II KG is now known as the Flightposite II LE. Featured above is the Metallic Zinc colored base with black which is more eye catching to say the least. You can grab your pair now at select VILLA locations.

Jordan Brand continues its fusion series with a look into its upcoming release for the Fusion 8. You can get your hands on this hot Jordan Fusion 8 (Black/Aqua) at select VILLA locations as we speak.

Check out this Jordan 6 Ring Motorsport sneaker, which features a White/Black upper along with a signature Jordan Brand Elephant Print featured on the lining of the sneaker. Additionally a new Air Jordan “23/25″ graphic is also featured on the inside of the shoe symbolizing the fact that 23 has now existed for 25 years. This very rare sneaker is in select VILLA locations as we speak.

We gave you the copper, and now we give you the first look at this Nike Eggplant Foamposite. This sneaker another highly anticipated release. You can get your hands on these hot sneakers at all VILLA locations.

The man closest to Tiger Woods Steve Williams, Woods’ caddy says he had no idea about the affairs that have sidelined Woods from the game.

“I knew nothing,” Williams said in an interview posted on the station’s Web site Thursday. “I don’t need to clarify it, extend that answer. I knew nothing.”

He said he is disappointed with Woods.

“Of course, I’m mad at him,” he said. “Why would you not be? He’s obviously let his family down.”

Williams said he and Woods will talk about the scandal eventually, but not now.

Back in October of 2007, T.I was arrested for gun possession which led to the rapper going to prison in May of last year. After serving his sentence in Arkansas, T.I. was released in the final week of 2009 and has returned to his home state of Georgia where he resided in a halfway house.

This week it’s been revealed that T.I. will likely be a free man this month. T.I.’s legal team says that he’ll be released from the halfway house on March 26, 2010.

On March 13, Manny Pacquiao and Joshua Clottey will gear up for a champion match up in Dallas. There are rumors that this fight may be Manny’s last. According to ESPN…  while he is training at Hollywood’s Wild Card Gym, leading up to the Clottey fight, Pacquiao is also, simultaneously, running for a congressional seat in his native Philippines.

If he does win the political seat, as many expect, how can he meet the rigorous demands of being a competitive championship boxer.

“I don’t know, but I can still fight,” the 31-year-old Pacquiao told ESPN this week. “Boxing is different than politics. Politics is more in service. … I want to be a good public servant. I want to help people.”

The sneaker featured above is the Jordan 4 Silver Anniversary. This sneakers featured in a textured white leather upper with silver accents on the tongue and metallic silver on the “Wings” and heel Jumpman. This sneaker will release on March 27, 2010 at all VILLA locations and will be available in Men and Junior sizes.

Syracuse beat St. John’s 85-66 in its first game in two decades as the No. 1 team in the nation.

“It’s a blessing. I’ve been here five years and it’s the first time my mom’s seen me play here,” Onuaku said. “It’s just special. We came in the same day, and we were two guys that they felt wouldn’t be much, underrated guys. We came here, worked hard, and it’s paid off.”

Onuaku finished with a season-high 21 points and had eight rebounds and Rautins had 14 points and seven assists as Syracuse won the Big East title outright for only the second time (1990-91).

Well it’s no secret…Wayne should have been in jail as we speak, but it seems luck has found its way to the rap mogul. Yesterday, Lil Wayne’s jail time has been pushed back, due to the Court House Catching Fire! Check out the video below.

This argument is so childish. Check out the video below of Floyd Mayweather coming Face to face with Shane Mosley at the Press Conference. (Clowns On Mosley’s Suit! “That’s Off The Rack”)

Trainer fans and Bo Jackson fans, feature your eyes on the black/grey colorway of this Nike Air Trainer SC. Nike is introducing this new color schemes that is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Shaquille O’Neal had surgery on his injured right thumb today and it seems he is likely to miss the rest of the regular season. O’Neal will miss about eight weeks, the team said. Cleveland enters its game Monday against the Knicks leading Orlando by six games for the best record in the East. Will Shaq cost them the season?

Rap pioneer and Brooklyn’s Gang Starr member Guru suffered a heart attack this weekend. Guru also known as Keith Elam is presently in a coma from complications of going into cardiac arrest. We here at the VILLA sends our prayers to the Elam family.

 We all herd the word on Lupe Fiasco third album “Lasers”. Now it has been revealed that he’s working on his first book. According to TheBoomBox.com, Fiasco told New Zealand press that becoming an author was always a part of his plan.

I started off as a writer,” the Chicago rapper told 3News New Zeleand. “You know, since I was a little kid, I’ve been telling stories and actually hip-hop has just been an extension of me telling stories. So putting it in a more traditional form as far as a book has always been a part of the plan.”

The books title has not been released yet.

Finally! Probably one of the best colorways for the Jordan Spiz’ike sneakers to be released. The Villa has this Spiz’ike black/grey/white/red available. This sneaker is probably the hottest of all the rest. Get yours at select Villa locations.

Take a look at this Brand Jordan’s Silver (25th) Anniversary Retro 2. This sneaker is seen here in a White/Metallic Silver/Neutral Grey colorway. This Silver Anniversary colorway of the AJ II uses a White leather upper accented with parts of Metallic Silver and Neutral Grey; some pieces of the shoes are actually reflective. You can get your hands on this hot sneaker at select VILLA locations.

Check out this Terry Kennedy Supra Pro Model  Rose Gold edition sneaker. This is a must have sneaker. You can get your hand on this bad boy at select VILLA locations.

Check out this Air Jordan 1 Alpha “Tinker Hatfield” Edition. The shoe is created with an off-white upper, a black Swoosh, and a orange lining. On the insoles it reads, “The First To Bring Color To The Game” and “Thank You”. You can get this hot sneaker in select VILLA locations.

Check out this Nike Air Max Lebron VII Dunkman, which is seen here in a predominantly black upper, with patent leather mudguard and the patented flywire technology. Neon green accents can be found on the outline of the Nike swoosh, as well as the entire 360-degree air max sole unit. Underneath the sole you will find the Lebron Dunkman caricature taking up approximately half the length of the shoe, along with a centered medallion. This hot sneaker is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak

This Air Max 95 is one of the most popular Air Max colorways ever released. In the summer of 2005, this color was the first retroed…being the last classic color before Nike changed the mid-sole and out-sole on the Air Max 95. Now Nike is kicking 2010 off with a bang, by releasing this retro Cool Grey/Neon Yellow Air Max 95. This sneaker is resting in select VILLA locations.

The Air Jordan Fusion 8 sneaker is a lot better than the “Aqua” colorway of the same model which was released a few months ago. The Air Jordan VIII Bugs Bunny sneaker has inspired the Air Jordan Fusion 8 sneaker. It comes in a white upper with perforated side panels and white shoelaces. If you dig this sneaker… you can now purchase it at select VILLA locations.

Adidas Sambas are the evolution of the classic sneaker. They are seen here in black/white colorway, a full grain leather upper for comfort, and a non-marking out-sole for use on polished indoor surfaces. These classics are in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Featured above is the Eggplant G-shock. This watch is a limited release, which is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak. Now you can grad your G-shock to match your Nike Eggplant Foamposite sneaker next week.

Allen Iverson’s time with the Philadelphia 76ers may be coming to an end. In a statement, the Sixers revealed that Iverson has been given a leave from the team indefinitely to deal with a personal issue related to the health of his young daughter.

“At this time, we feel that it is in the best interest of the Sixers, Allen and his family that he be allowed to deal with a very serious issue that is far greater than the game of basketball,” team president and general manager Ed Stefanski told SI.com.

Iverson missed five games and the 2010 All-Star Game in which he was voted to start in earlier this month to deal with his daughter’s health problems. There are also rumors that the team is considering cutting ties with Iverson.

The Nike Trainer SC 2010 is setting up to take over 2010 much like the Trainer 1 did in 2009. Featured above is the Nike Trainer SC “Rebirth”. This shoe is seen here in its classic Orange/Purple/Grey/White/ colorway with touches of Nike’s famous material Flywire. This hot sneaker is arriving in select Villa locations this week.

VILLA has now received all of the All-Star Air Force 1s at select VILLA locations. The “2010 NBA All-Star” Air Force 1 lineup features four low-top Air Force 1s and two Hi-top Air Force 1s. The low-tops will come in red, black, blue and white patent leather finishes and feature the Texas-shaped All-Star logos on the heel. They are also complimented with a white midsole, black outsole and a silver swoosh. One of the high-tops is done up in 100% white perforated leather, while the remaining pair owns a predominately 3M upper with a black sole.

An Olympic gold medal may be the ultimate evidence of skiing success in everyone else’s eyes, but most assuredly not in his. If the willful Miller ever was going to earn one and truly embrace the accomplishment, this is how it had to be.

The gold medal is great. I think it’s perfect. Ideally, that’s what everyone is shooting for. But the way I skied these last races is what matters. I would’ve been proud of that skiing with a medal or not,” Miller said after turning in the third-fastest slalom leg for an overall time of 2 minutes, 44.92 seconds, a comfortable 0.33 ahead of Ivica Kostelic of Croatia. Silvan Zurbriggen of Switzerland got the bronze.

“The way I executed — the way I skied — is something I’ll be proud of the rest of my life,” Miller said.

Check out this Nike Griffey Max 1 which features a combo of smooth leather and nubuck with Teal accents on the eyelets and logos. The upper sits on a White/Grey mid-sole and Black out-sole. This hot sneaker is available at all VILLA locations as we speak.

On Thursday (February 18) in Los Angeles Chris Brown appeared before a judge for an update on his probation. The judge stated that he’s doing well. Chris Brown appeared before a judge in Los Angeles on Thursday (February 18) for an update on his probation. He’s doing well, a judge said.

According to the report, Brown has completed 17 out of 52 group sessions for domestic violence, not missing a single one. And, has completed 32 days of community service. He also received similar praise from the judge at his last progress review in November.

Brown’s next court date is May 11, lets see what statements are made then.

In a three-team deal this week, the New York Knicks picked Tracy McGrady also known as T-Mac. In December, T-Mac was given an indefinite leave from the Rockets after his camp and the team’s management agreed to work together to deal him to another team.

“I have tremendous respect for [owner] Leslie Alexander and have enjoyed playing for the Rockets over the last six years,” McGrady wrote. “It has definitely been the most profound part of my career. I’ve learned a lot about myself from various situations, both good and bad that have occurred here. It was my hope when I came to Houston that I wouldn’t leave, but I do understand this is the business side of basketball.”

According to NBA.com, the deal will put the Knicks $30 million below the salary cap, freeing up enough cap room to make reasonable offers to at least two major free agents this summer.

This isn’t the first time Drake’s likeness has been used for fraudulent purposes. Last June, a fake Drake album was made available through online retailers for purchase, though the Toronto rapper had nothing to do with it.

VILLA’S DARING YOU TO PROVE YOU ARE THE
FRESHEST DRESSED MALE OR FEMALE.

Dare to be Fresh from VILLA on Vimeo.

2010 Villa Holiday Classic (Preview) from Matthew D'Avella on Vimeo.

Check out these new Pome duck boots to hit the VILLA. These boots have a rubber toe front, rugged sole for durable tread, genuine leather upper, padded ankle for comfort, and a non-scuff outer sole. Get your pair now at select VILLA locations.

This hot sneaker is best known for its lightweight comfort….so its easy to say that the 2k10 model will keep that in tact with a few more surprises. This shoe is stylish and still uses Zoom Air technology. You can get your hand on these sneakers at select VLLA locations.

This Nike Air max 2009 is equipped with a leather upper with a quilting design, a 360 air unit for maximum cushioning, and a rubber out-sole for durability and traction.This sneaker is seen here in a purple/grey/black/white colorway. Get your pair now at select VILLA locations.

Ladies check out this Nike Air MAx 97 LE sneaker. This shoe is seen here in a white/pink/silver/grey colorway. This sneaker is available at select VILLA locations.

Nike is killing All-Star weekend with this release of this Nike Air Max Lebron VII “All Stars” sneaker. The sneaker is covered in a wood-grain material, with blue covering the rest of the upper and out-sole. Black is used on the Nike swoosh, flywire threading, mid-sole, shoe laces, and ankle lining. This hot sneaker is available at VILLA as we speak. The sneakers is available at the following locations: Gallery Mall (Philadelphia); 52nd Street (Philadelphia); Broad Street (Philadelphia); Olney (Philadelphia); Wood Street (Pittsburgh); Wilmington (Delaware); Lee/Harvard (Cleveland). Please go to our store locator page more more store detailed information.

“No, no, no, no, no. I don’t think I can bear that anymore. I’m just happy with this third one,” Robinson said after being presented with the Sprite Slam Dunk trophy. “This is the last one.”

Robinson won the dunk title as a rookie in 2006, then beat Dwight Howard to win again last year.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the Democratic National Committee posted a job ad seeking a “social networks manager,” who would update Obama’s official profiles on Twitter, Facebook and other social-media tools.

The Wall Street Journal writes:

Mia Cambronero, who currently holds the job, “will be stepping down from my infamous role as ‘Barack Obama’s twitterer,’ ” she said in an email message posted to a listserv. “We’re looking for someone who is available to start immediately.

“The new hire will work closely with the rest of the new media department to execute grassroots campaigns to advance the President’s agenda for change,” the listing says.

Among the qualifications sought: “Ready to work hard; this isn’t a 9-5 sort of job.”

The most obvious distinction in this Air Jordan 2010 is the massive transparent window through the middle of the shoe as a representation of Michael Jordan’s on-court skill of “seeing through his opponents”. The shoe’s collar is also cut disproportionately with the medial side being higher up. The Air Jordan 2010 is available at select VILLA locations as we speak.

The Copper Nike Foamposite Penny Nike Air Foamposite will definitely be one of the more popular sneaker releases of 2010. We can now take the first look at the copper colorway which hosts a full copper upper with black accents seen on the lace region and carbon-fiber plate, while the sole is fully translucent. This extremely popular sneaker is available at all VILLA locations as we speak.

Check out this Retro Air Jordan 1 in its neutral grey/metallic silver-white colorway that features a neutral grey upper with metallic silver on the heel, collar, Swoosh and toe-box, and a white mid-sole . This might be the best Air Jordan 1 since the black/grey which dropped a few months back. This hot shoe is available in select VILLA locations as we speak.

“There isn’t a title for it,” Rousseau said of the unreleased song. “Honestly, I can’t tell you too much about it. That was a complete secret. We had to kick everyone off the set for it. No photography, even their official photographer had to leave. That’s under wraps. The album is still under production. It’s a crazy song.”

NBA star, Allen Iverson is now being sued according to the Detroit Free Press. A mans by the name of Guy Walker filed a lawsuit recently claiming he suffers from “severe pain, emotional distress and mental anguish” due to injuries he suffered during an altercation with Iverson’s crew at a local nightspot called South Beach Pizza Bar back in April 2008. Walker claims a man named Antwuan Clisey, who was working as a member of Iverson’s security detail, initiated an unprovoked attack that cleared the bar, and Iverson did nothing to stop it. He says he suffered “an orbital blowout fracture of the eye” as well as other injuries.

Walker is seeking $2.5 million, plus damages, in the suit.

“I don’t want this to get pushed back anymore,” Judge Solomon said. “This is the last adjournment.”

Saturday (February 6, 2010), The Game officially announced his return to Aftermath Records. The announcement, made via the Compton star rapper’s Twitter page (@IHateGame), comes after pictures and statements already confirming Game’s musical reunion with one of his early mentors, Dr. Dre. “It’s funny how things come full circle. R.E.D.” Game linked to a photograph of him wearing four Aftermath medallions on chain necklaces. R.E.D. is the title of Game’s spring album, which may now carry the Aftermath logo.

We all enjoyed the Super Bowl this past weekend, but we can not forget the funny commercials that aired. With companies spending an estimate of $3 million for a 30-second spot, you know they were going to make sure their commercials stuck in your mind to help promote their product/service, or at least, make you laugh. Check out some of the best commercials below.

The celebrations has begun in New Orleans, as the city’s Saints have won their first Super Bowl championship title, bringing joy to a city while still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The Saints surprised the favored Indianapolis Colts 31 to 17 Sunday evening before a packed stadium in Miami, Florida - and an expected 100 million television viewers in the United States and millions more around the world.

President Barack Obama, a keen sports fan, hosted a Super Bowl-watching party at the White House. Asked for his analysis before play began, he said the Colts are the stronger team but that he was partial to the underdog Saints.

Cavi…an apparel brand that is taking over the streets. They are the “Caviar” of the fashion industry. This band which is also carried at select VILLA locations and is now making its way in to the hands of stars. The picture above features Lebron James attending the college Kentucky game just last week with a Cavi cardigan that was turning heads every where. The bottom thumbnail picture shows Fabolous showing off his Cavi fashion interest in magazines. You can also find Cavi on Fabolous again in The Dream video below. Remember, VILLA is the place to find the best looks and fashion brands.

Nike has been giving the Air Max Lebron VII a rather classic looking colorway. The one we see here is no exception. The sneakers come in a white patent leather base just above the full Air Max mid-sole, which then leads to a black suede and Flywire on the top portion of the kicks. Metallic gold accents provided some added texture to its look on the lace holders, Swoosh and other touches on the upper. This sneaker is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Guess who has the Nike Hyperized All-Star East sneaker…If you said Villa, your absolutely right. Keeping with the trends set by the Zoom Kobe V and Air Max LeBron VII, the Hyperizes sneaker use a wood-grain upper in red colorway for the All-Star West team. Only 152 pairs were made to be sold in the U.S., and Villa just happened to be blessed with 12 pair that’s in our Gallery locationas we speek.

Featured above is the Black History Month AF1 2010 edition sneaker. This sneaker highlights the Afro-centric orientation, through its red/black/green colorway long associated with the Pan-African movement. This limited sneaker is available in select VILLA locations. Get your pair today.

This Nike Trainer Sc is seen here in a black and green colorway. Also, this sneaker has an entirely black base which has been accented with hints of green on the lace eyelets, Nike Swoosh, within the visible air unit, around the top of the tongue and on the tongue tag branding. Finally outlining the Nike branding on the heel of the shoes. This shoe is in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Nike drops this new colorway in its Air Max 1, a classic makeup featuring the use of black/white/grey with a hint of blue. This hot kick will is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Guess who has the Nike Hyperized All-Star West sneaker…If you said Villa, your absolutely right. Keeping with the trends set by the Zoom Kobe V and Air Max LeBron VII, the Hyperizes sneaker use a wood-grain upper in red colorway for the All-Star West team. Only 152 pairs were made to be sold in the U.S., and Villa just happened to be blessed with 12 pair that’s in our Gallery locationas we speek.

This Nike Air max 2009 is equipped with a leather upper with a quilting design, a 360 air unit for maximum cushioning, and a rubber out-sole for durability and traction. Get your pair now at select VILLA locations.

The Nike Air Max Tailwind 2010 features a full length air bubble, breathable mesh/suede upper, and all the specifics that made the Tailwind a fan favorite over the years. This hot sneaker is sitting in select VILLA’s wall cubes as we speak. Get your pair now!

Nike continues to push out new and fresh looks in classic models. Here we feature a new color palette in the Nike ACG Wildwood model which is seen here in a neon green/cement/shadow grey/black colorway. This shoe is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Akio Toyoda chief executive of Toyota Motors apologized Friday for the problems that led to the company’s recall of more than 8 million cars, but it did not announce another recall of its popular Prius Hybrid, despite reports of brake problems. The recall affected 8.1 million vehicles worldwide and will cost the company an estimated $2 billion in repair costs and lost sales due to a sticking accelerator.

Toyota has far greater financial resources than most of its rivals, such as: General Motors, Ford Motor (F, Fortune 500) and Chrysler Group. But the quality issues do pose a financial challenge for the company. Friday credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s placed its debt on credit watch, meaning it faces the risk of a downgrade that could raise its borrowing costs.

 August of 2007 Jay-Z purchased land located at 511 W. 21st St. with a $52 million senior loan from NexBank SSB. Then the real estate started to tank, so the bank tried to hand over the land to Highland Capital Management LP to avoid forclosure. In the complaint filed it states Hov the investment firm didn’t take the deal, which made Hov pay extremely high interest rates on the loan.

“This action arises out of the efforts by defendants to bleed additional funds from [the] plaintiff,” the paperwork read. “Defendants embarked on a bad faith course of conduct.”

On January 30, 2010 retired NFL Cowboy’s player Herschel Walker made his MMA (mixed martial arts) debut. Walker was on the under-card of Strikeforce’s Miami event on Saturday, where he began his MMA career with a win. Check out the video below to see how this old man dominated this event.

After a 17-year wait, future boxing Hall of Famer, Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins and Roy “The Terminator” Jones Jr., have set a rematch in early April. Hopkins said he’s been itching for a rematch for years, and says it’ll be different this time.

“A rematch with Roy has been in the back of my mind for a long time and it’s finally going to happen,” said Hopkins. “I have accomplished a lot in my career since that night in Washington, DC in 1993, and I am going to end this thing between me and Roy once and for all.”

“We’re giving the fans what they want to see,” added Jones. “They deserve this fight and why not supply the fans with what they demand? Now I can finally terminate the ‘Executioner’ once and for all. My new nickname for this fight will be: ‘The Terminator.’ ”

Next week, both fighters will participate in a press tour with stops in New York and Los Angeles.

According to rumors that happened to hit the NY Post, Keys and Swizz purchased the New York penthouse from Lenny Kravitz for a reported $14.5 million. Also sources told US Magazine that Swizz surprised Keys with a 7-carat rock while they were in Hawaii celebrating the singer’s birthday….WOW! It seems that Swiss must be truly in love this time around.

Check out this low-profile Nike Air ACG Changste men’s Hiking sneaker. This sneaker is tough enough for any terrain and sporty enough for city streets. It is seen here in a Dark Grey/Brown/Hunter Green/ Orange colorway. Get your pair today at select VILLA locations.

Ladies….now you tear up ruff terrain with this Vasque boot which is seen here in a Tan/Green/Brown/Orange colorway. Vasque offers a model your feet will absolutely love. Get this boot in select VILLA locations.

The Nike Air Max Tailwind 2010 features a full length air bubble, breathable mesh/suede upper, and all the specifics that made the Tailwind a fan favorite over the years. This hot sneaker is sitting in select VILLA’s wall cubes as we speak. Get your pair now!

“Bringing handguns into the workplace … is unacceptable. You can’t do it. You want your employees to feel safe, and we’re lucky that something worse or something serious didn’t come out of it,” team president Ernie Grunfeld told the PostStar. “I think the league has to send a very strong message. We have to send a very strong message also.”

Macintosh has always been a company know for there innovative computer inventions. Now they are hitting us with the iPad. It is said that all the things you love about the iPhone and iPod Touch, the computer giant has packed into a bigger, tablet device, and added more. According to the official press release, it includes 12 new apps designed especially for the iPad, working in both portrait and landscape, automatically animating between views as the user rotates iPad in any direction. It can even run almost all of the over 140,000 apps in the App Store, including apps already purchased for your either your iPhone or iPod touch. There’s also the new iBookstore, which allows you to buy and read books on a mobile device.

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This Retro Jordan 6 is one of the most anticipated Jordans to be released in 2010. It is seen here in a black nubuck and white textured leather upper while most of the attention in drawn toward the mid-sole, which features a black design along with white specs earning it’s nick name “Oreo”. You can get your hand on these hot kicks at select VILLA locations March 20, 2010.

VILLA is working with The American Red-Cross and Convoy of Hope to raise money and send food to support the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. You can Join the Movement by donating canned goods or a financial gift at any VILLA location. Your donation will provide food, shelter and medical treatment for thousands of families. For more information about how you can help families in Haiti, please visit www.redcross-philly.org, http://www.convoyofhope.org/

Haitian Relief – Key Facts

Does 100% of my donation go to support the relief efforts in Haiti?

100% of the donations received will go DIRECTLY to the Haitian relief effort

What could my gift actually buy? 

$5 - Provides a water container to store clean drinking water.

$10 - Provides a blanket that is appropriate to the climate and culture of the disaster-affected area.

$25 - Provides a family of 5 with a kitchen set giving them the ability to coo and serve food. This includes two cooking pots, a frying pan, bowls, plates, cups and utensils.

$30 - Provides essential hygiene items like toothpaste, shampoo, body soap, toilet paper, towel, etc to 5 people for one month.

$60 - Provides tarps, rope, wood and tools for a family of five to build a temporary shelter.

$100 - Provides a cooking set, hygiene pack, blankets and water containers for one family of five following a disaster.

$500 - Provides a family tent for a family of 5.

How do I know my donation is safe? Is it going to the government?

All donations made to the American Red Cross stay within the Red Cross organization. During an international disaster, like the earthquake in Haiti, the money will be given to the International Red Cross. They will retain the donation and spend the money appropriately on deploying personnel, providing relief supplies and direct financial assistance. The Red Cross takes full responsibility of donations and all money contributed to us will be used solely by our organization. 

It’s all in stone…the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts are headed to Miami February 7 for Super Bowl XLIV (44).

The Minnesota Vikings were sent home early on Sunday (January 24) by the New Orleans Saints, who pulled out an overtime win.It was the Saints 31, and Vikings 28, as they won in their home field. Now the Saints are headed to their first Super Bowl in the franchise’s 43-year history.

In Indianapolis, the Colts held their ground against the New York Jets. Four-time MVP, Peyton Manning, threw for three touchdown passes to rally back from an 11-point, first-half deficit to comeback with the win over the Jets 30-17 during Sunday’s AFC championship game.

Now who will you place your bet on?

“I’m so excited to be a judge on MTV’s ‘America’s Best Dance Crew’,” says Omarion. “Dancing and performing is what I do and being a judge on this show will allow me to give creative feedback to the newest and hottest dancers on the rise.”

The singer is replacing previous judge, Shane Sparks, who was arrested on eight counts of child molestation in December.

The Jordan 1 is pretty popular item these days. The Air Jordan Alpha 1 is the direct inspiration of the iconic model. This sneaker is seen in a black/red/white colorway. This sneaker will be available in select VILLA locations March 13.

Take a look at these Casio G-shock GLS-5600 watches. Yes, they have finally dropped due to their push back in October of 2009. Get your G-shock in select VILLA locations.

Please check out the video below.

On the 16th of January 2010. VILLA brings you this Air Flightposite II LE. The kicks come in a black colorway is a futuristic shoe that was one of Nike’s first to feature the Foamposite technology. You can find this hot sneaker in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Arriving in the United States today, evacuees and orphans survivors from Haiti carry the frustrations of the earthquake-devastation of the Caribbean nation. Aboard a military transport plane to Pennsylvania 50 orphans who survived last week’s 7.0-magnitude quake are expected to arrive today.Officials at Orlando Florida Sanford International Airport expect arrivals for the next two weeks.

Stuck in a contract with G-Unit, Buck says he wants to talk to 50 cent Face to face. Despite dissing him on a recently released record.

“Mr. Curtis can only hold me for so long,” the rapper said. “Eventually he’s gotta come to some type of terms of negotiations. I haven’t spoke to 50 in three years. I done did every thing you could do, called the n****’s phone to having lawyers reach out. I really just want to have a sit-down with this n****, eye to eye.”

Young Buck also stated that Lloyd Banks wants to leave the Unit, but doesn’t have the heart to stand up to 50 and Yayo’s not going no-where, because that’s all he’s got and he has no other choice.

With all this said do you VILLA fans out there feel that 50 should try to here this guy out?

We all know that the NBA All-Star events are bound to be here soon this February. The NBA has unveiling some of the participants of some of the festivities. They have recently leaked out their line-up for the Sprite Slam Dunk competition. On NBA.com it confirms last year’s winner Nate Robinson from the New York Knicks, is returning this year to attempt to become the first three-time winner of the competition. Robinson will compete against the Charlotte Bobcats’ Gerald Wallace and the Los Angeles Lakers’ Shannon Brown.

I can’t wait to see this years Dunk contest. This is a great line-up.

During the 1990-1991 NBA season, at the time of their release, Nike was pulling away from their competitors at a startling rate and so was Michael Jordan. This Jordan 6 sneaker was on his feet as he won his first NBA Championship and his second league MVP.Whether you had them back then or were smart enough to pick up the Retro version that dropped in 2000, another chance is coming to get your hands on this sneaker. This sneaker is in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Check out these Nike Woodside boots. These boots feature a leather top with rubber crafted heels and front. These boots are available in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Jordan Brand will honor Spike further with this special Mars Blackmon edition of the Spiz’ike. The shoe features a White leather upper with touches of Black, Fire Red and Blue, as well as some original Grey Elephant print on the heel. To add some extra Spike-related touches, the kicks also sport a “Do You Know?” all-over print lining, a Mars lace lock and a Mars Blackmon illustration on the insole along with the tag line, “Fresh Since 1985″ printed below. This hot Spiz’ike is in select VILLA locations as we speak.

Yes it’s true, Arenas, who was suspended indefinitely without pay by NBA commissioner David Stern last week, has reached a plea agreement that would result in little or no jail time, several sources close to the case told The Washington Post. Arenas is expected to plead guilty Friday afternoon before D.C. Superior Court Judge Robert E. Morin, The Post reported. His court appearance is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET.

Hard work pays off for Beyonce and Jay-Z, who seem to be the super couple that earned the most money last year, raking in $122 million combined. The couple also made last year’s Forbes list with a combined earning of $162 million. This couple success comes from their respective albums such as I Am…Sasha Fierce and The Blueprint 3, which the pair also owns clothing lines, tours around the world, and are the faces of several brands. Lets give it up to Jay-Z & Beyonce.

We have all been hurt due to the devastating 7.0 earthquake that shook the nation of Haiti early this week. Well it seems that Haiti’s Goodwill Ambassador Wyclef Jean led a call to action campaign where followers were urged to text “Yele” to 501501 in order to donate $5.

“Since the disaster occurred around 5 p.m. Eastern on Tuesday and [by] midnight [Wednesday] we cleared $1 million,” he said, according to MTV. “These types of donations really were spawned by the 2004 tsunami relief effort, and the $1 million that Yele has raised already is a watershed event.”

Other celebrities have offered to help with efforts, while President Barack Obama has pledged $100 million in aid from the United States.

This year started off with Jay-Z premiered his Swizz Beatz-assisted video, “On To The Next One.” 1. Soon after, people took different messages from the video and wondered if the idea of the images from the video were in reference to the occult or other secret societies. One of the images in question was a Crucifix placed between two bullets (see below). In a recent interview with Ed Lover, Jay-Z spoke on the mild uproar.

“I got a lot of money,” Jay-Z offered. “You know when people get a lot of money, they start getting those rumors like Tom Cruise and Will Smith. That’s ridiculous; that’s crazy to me.”

After again denying any kind of occult affiliation, Jay-Z added, “I think I need to remind people I’m from Marcy Projects. You can’t get into those prestigious clubs. I can’t even get into the golf club in Palm Springs.”

After hearing this statement, what are your thoughts on this issue?

Available now in select VILLA locations is this Timberland Canard Chukka. This shoe keep your feet dry in the muddiest, wettest weather; and the addition of the Wool material lining will keep your feet warm. Get your pair now.

Available now in select VILLA locations is this Nike Air Max+ 2009. This shoe offers maximum comfort and cushioning for the runner seeking a premium ride and fit. Get your pair now.

Available now in select VILLA locations is this new colorway in the ever-popular Nike Air Max LeBron 7 (VII). This shoe sports a predominantly white leather upper, along with subtle red accents including the Nike swoosh, full length sole, and ankle collar. Get your pair now.

This Nike Dunk High Premium 08 is equipped with a leather upper, a EVA mid-sole for cushioning, and a solid rubber out-sole for traction and durability. Get your pair now at select VILLA locations.

This Nike Air max 2009 is equipped with a leather upper with a quilting design, a 360 air unit for maximum cushioning, and a rubber out-sole for durability and traction. Get your pair now at select VILLA locations.

San Diego Chargers Running Back LaDanian Tomlinson put out a music video Called “LT Slide Electric Glide” You got to check out this video.

According to MTV Mr. Hines, who has a history of working with Lloyd Banks and other G Unit artists as a booking agent, was held against his will for over 20 minutes and pummeled on by the Lloyd and the other three attackers. Check out the video below.

If you were a “A-Team” fan you will probably want to see this movie. We all remember MR. Tees famous line ” I pitty the fool”. View the trailer below.

Check out this Air Max 95 that in select VILLA locations as we speak. This sneaker is seen here in a variation of blues and greys. 95’s are always the right choice when your thinking of purchasing new sneaks.

This Nike Air Force 1 High Supreme West was designed by Eddie Cruz. Having just released in Hong Kong; this sneaker has now release in North America in select VILLA locations. This shoe is seen in a black/obsidian upper in material mix that combines patent leather, nubuck, and scaly embossed leather. A splash of color is seen on the out-sole in solid varsity red.

Yes, Street Fighter Fans, it has been confirmed. Part four will be hitting the market this year, but with a new name, “Super Street Fighter IV”. There has also been talk of an improved online experience as well. Producer Yoshinori Ono says that every character has been changed slightly based on comments from both players. Which begs the question: why an all-new title, and not just a range of DLC? Ono says the changes are so extensive that they couldn’t just be tacked on, so a disc release was necessary. This hot game will be hitting store in Spring 2010 for the PS3 and 360. Check out the video below.

Producer 9th Wonder known for his compilations with Little Brother and other various artists now moving to his next project, which happens to be helping teach an African-American Studies course at Duke University alongside Professor Mark Anthony Neal. According to the Professor’s blog, 9th will participate in teaching “Sampling Soul,” a course that focuses on music from the Civil Rights and Black Power movements.

“The class is studying soul music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, the neighborhoods it came out of and where was the influence for this song to come out of,” said 9th Wonder in a video interview [view below]. “I’m excited man, it’s a new frontier for me. I’m always excited for new frontiers.”

Maestro Knows - Episode 1 (9th Wonder) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

Check out the video below!

Maestro Knows - Episode 1 (9th Wonder) from Maestro Knows on Vimeo.

            On January 3, 2010 at St. Joe’s Hagan Arena, VILLA hosted our third annual basketball event.  This year we went bigger with the 4,000 seat arena at St. Joe’s University.  The venue change was definitely different because this wasn’t in the heart of the city anymore, but the fans definitely came out for this great event.  We had 4 great matchups between some of the East Coast’s best high school basketball teams, and saw a sneak preview of Jayvaughn Pinkston (from New York’s Bishop Loughlin), who will be playing for Villanova later this year.  If that wasn’t enough we had some great performances by Philly’s own Meek Mill, and the New Boyz.  Shout out to everyone that came through, and for those of you that missed it, you’ll just have to hear about it until next year’s event.  You can also watch the buzzer beater from the final game, Strawberry Mansion and North Catholic.  Click on the link below:
 

Young talent is found anywhere now days. Check out the video below of a kid showing off his violin skills on trey Songz latest single “Say Ahh”.

If you were hoping for another tight NFC East battle with a lot on the line, Cowboys Stadium wasn’t the place to be Sunday afternoon. With Sunday’s 24-0 beat down of the Eagles, the Cowboys should be the most confident team in the playoffs. The Cowboys shut down one of the most prolific offenses in the league. It’s the first time in club history the Cowboys have recorded back-to-back shutouts. The Eagles hadn’t been shut out since Dec. 5, 2005, against Seattle. Dallas has become the most complete team in the NFC and it couldn’t have happened at a better time.

“I thought I wouldn’t be able to go to the school because the tuition was so expensive, but Plies has made my dream come true,” Johnkins said.

Despite a broken finger on his shooting hand, Kobe Bryant made 16 free throws without a miss against the Warriors on December 29, 2009. Bryant had a season-high 44 points and 11 assists this game against he Warriors. That guy is amazing,” Warriors coach Don Nelson said. “To be able to shoot like he did with the finger problems that he has on his shooting hand, it’s amazing. I love watching him play, and it’s always a pleasure to coach against him.” Pau Gasol had a season-high 27 points and 12 rebounds for the defending NBA champions. The Lakers won the game with a score of 124 to 118. The Lakers still have the NBA’s best record (25-6).

Mad Skillz is back in the booth with his annual 2009 “Rap Up”. This song I will have to say wasn’t the best, but still was funny and rememberable. Check out the song below.

According to TMZ.com, on December 23rd, Teddy Riley R&B/Hip-Hop producer was accused of violently striking his 18-year-old daughter Taja Riley and her older sister in Los Angeles. A restraining order was been filed and granted by the Los Angeles Superior Court. Riley has been ordered to stay 100 yards away. Taja also claims that her father abused her and her sister by “stomping, punching and bashing” them causing “contusions” and other injuries.

These Air Jordan Flight 45 high sneakers are definitely a must have. These Air Jordan Flight 45 high sneakers are available at select VILLA locations as we speak. The black/black features full black suede leather upper and nubuck upper with white mid-sole as accents. While the other Jordan Flight 45 is being released in this clean traditional Bulls colorway. If you like simply stylish Jordan shoes, don’t miss the chance to grab the Air Jordan Flight 45 High at select VILLA locations.

Producer Scott Storch is working with Shyne a new album who was just recently deported back to Belize. “Yeah, Shyne’s my man. I’ve been talking to him and I was talking to him all through his prison sentence. He’s always remained a loyal person to me,” he told AllHipHop.com. Storch continued. “I’m looking forward to doing, not just one record, but doing a chunk on his album.”

I just hope Shyne still has the fire.

The popular animated series “The Boondocks” is set to return to TV in the New Year, its creator Aaron McGruder said. The popular yet controversial comic strip-turned-cartoon debuted in 2005 on the Cartoon Network and ran for two seasons before its end. During the second season of “The Boondocks”, two episodes were banned without any official word from the network. According to reports, the banned episodes were heavily critical of BET. A source told HipHopDX at the time that BET had been pressured Sony (the studio behind The Boondocks) to ban the episodes and threatened legal action.

Yes it’s true, Mayweather & Pacquaiu fight has been put on hold, because Nevada State Athletic Commission has now announced that they’re ordering both fighters to take immediate out-of-competition urine tests to be completed by Wednesday (December 30). I don’t understand the big deal about this situation. I don’t expect either fighter to have drugs in their system cause, Pacquiao had blood drawn just 14 days before his May fight against Ricky Hatton, so their requests shouldn’t be out of the question.The news organization says talks had stalled over the blood testing issues, and set a Monday deadline for Golden Boy to accept a “final offer” in which both sides let the Nevada State Athletic Commission make the final decision on testing.

“Random is random. We are not backing off and the ball is in their court,” Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions, said.

Check out this Lebron VII Christmas Edition sneaker. It is said that LeBron James sported these lovely shoes during his match-up against defending NBA champions the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday December 24th; the day before Christmas. This sneaker features fly wire technology and a full length Air Max 360 unit. This shoe is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak.

This shoe features a solid black upper with bright Green Spark highlights. This Nike 1/2 Cent sneaker is resting in select VILLA locations as we speak. Get your pair now.

The New York Giants destroyed the Redskins (Monday, Dec. 22), but the beating wasn’t limited to the scoreboard. After Giants quarterback Eli Manning was sacked early in the fourth quarter, running back Brandon Jacobs and Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall began to fight, with the two definitely swatting and possibly punching at each other. It did not take long for teammates to join the two. Check out the video below.