“People of VSB…”
You’ll find these three words at the end of many of our entries; a somewhat awkward segue linking whatever Panama or I happened to write about that day to a question or series of questions asking for your thoughts about it. But, while it may just seem like an easy way to encourage discussion, the main purpose of “People of VSB…” is to remind us all that this VSB thing is a collective effort. Sure, the bylines may read “The Champ” or “Panama Jackson” or “Liz Burr,” but VerySmartBrothas.com is each and every one of us who finds their way to VSB each day.
It’s the dozens of night owls who somehow manage to log on to VSB at exactly 12:01 am EST every day of the week. It’s the grad student who half-jokingly says, “you know, I really should be studying. VSB needs to pay back my loans when I flunk out of school,” at the end of his 19th post-midnight comment. It’s the teacher who lists “yoga, VSB, and Starbucks” as her morning routine staples. It’s the accountant who minimizes his window whenever his boss walks past, and it’s the boss who goes back into her office after doing her “cubicle lap” and gets back on VSB. It’s the hundreds of thousands of comments (231,785 to be exact) accumulated since our beginning, a real community where names like Cheekie and WuDaMan and Miss T-Lee and Keisha Brown have real histories and real meanings.
Your Degrees Wont Keep You Warm at Night: The Very Smart Brothas Guide to Dating, Mating, and Fighting Crime is available for purchase at Amazon.com today.
It’s the perfect culmination of this unique discussion, this dogmatic engagement, this beautiful community we’re all a part of. It’s our salvo, our 235 page response to the idea that we — The Very Smart Brothas and Sistas — aren’t large enough or mobilized enough or motivated enough or smart enough or whatever enough to matter and make a sizable difference.
In the coming months there will be myriad articles, reviews, and stories about VSB — pieces that’ll undoubtedly shed light on what we’ve been doing over here to those who weren’t aware of our existence — but our success and continued collective growth lies with each and every one of us, and I implore you all to spread the word about us.
Buy the book. (Please!) Buy the book for a friend. (Or two! Or three!) Share the link to the book on Twitter or Facebook. Write a review. (Good or bad. All feedback is welcome.) Start an email chain. Jog and tell a friend. (I’d say “run,” but I think I’m asking for a lot already.)
Do what you can to let the world know about us — the great, great “People of VSB.”
***A few more things I need to get off of my chest.***
1. Like I mentioned before, each of you all had a hand in the creation of this book. But, there are a few people who went above and beyond with their help. These people include veteran VSB-ers Ivy Street, Gem of The Ocean (twitter.com/GemoftheOcean) and Miss Patterson (twitter.com/misspatterson) and friends of VSB Deesha Philyaw (twitter.com/DeeshaPhilyaw), Nikki “Coco” Nokes (nikkinokes.com), Sarah Huny Young (phattygirl.com), and T. Hall (kineticculture.com), and I’m greatly, greatly, greatly thankful for each of their contributions.
2. When you buy the book, you’re going to be sent the “real” version, but the preview that shows up when clicking on the “Look Inside” prompt on the Amazon page is 3 months and 17 content, structure, and aesthetic edits old.
Again, when you buy the book, you’re going to be sent the “real” version, but please don’t click on that God-awful preview because it just shows a very, very rough draft version of the book. (Yes, I know that sucks and no, there’s nothing I can do about it right now. Apparently it’ll fix itself in the next few weeks.)
3. If you haven’t already, please join our mailing list so you can get info about National VSB Day (coming Feb. 10th), free book excerpts, and more.
—The Champ
yay! congrats!!!
thanks and sh*t
i been saying that for years. “yay! congrats!!!”
yeah…three exclamation points and all.
thanks.
lol @ the midnight readers. i logged on at 11:59pm and refreshed a few times and felt a little silly for doing so
but it’s cool now cause you basically gave me a personal shout out
i will DEFINITELY buy the book. love the blog and wanna support the cause … “and shi*t” …
“i will DEFINITELY buy the book. love the blog and wanna support the cause … “and shi*t” …”
you’re making me all verklempt and sh*t
Cosign the above… Best of luck.
if we dont support the cause…what can we support?!
lol thanks a million.
YAAAAAAAAY! I’m so proud of y’all! I’m a new VSSer an ish and dammit if it don’t feel like family doing something good.
I hope y’all get on the best sellers list and y’all are preparing for book 2 right? RIGHT??
And the accountant minimizing their window when their boss walks by? That’s me all day ALL DAY LMAO! (lemme see if my tax refund is in my account now rofl)
Good luck y’all
KMN
“I hope y’all get on the best sellers list and y’all are preparing for book 2 right? RIGHT??”
good question
we started working on “what if your degrees actually do keep your warm at night because you have so many?”
but the title was too long.
thanks.
btw, every time i see KMN i think of KLF and their song “KLF is gonna rock you”
@peej
i LOVE this entire comment.
*bops head to the tune now playing in my head..
You guys are awesome. Congratulations on you success, and everything you’ve accomplished. Looking forward to seeing what else you have in store.
thanks. that means alot coming from one of the VSB OG’s
Just read the intro and the background, and I already died twice. lol. We need a VSB book club and sh*t.
Ok, going to bed now. lol. good sh*t, guys and gal.
you know…i’ve had a VSB book club in the works for a very long time now. I just kept getting sidetracked…i’m a Gemini. Sue me.
Just ordered my book!
Wishing you all much success…even though you left Philly off the first event list LOL.
Keep up the good work guys (and gal)!
“Wishing you all much success…even though you left Philly off the first event list LOL.”
we thought about going to philly, until we remembered that “having a philly happy hour” isnt as important as “staying alive”
That ain’t nothing but a little western Pennsylvania hate LOL
Santa doesn’t even go to Philly. Or Camden.
Champ and Panama are snubbing our city because they’re afraid Obsidian might show up.
Oh he lives in Philly? you don’t say…
D.O.A. @ DanceHallKing
I guess i am comment 231,788. lol. But seriously, congrats on the book. Ya’ll need to take Teeth Harvey’s (why would ninjas take relationship advice from a man that is on his third marriage. With the woman he cheated on his second wife with. Is beyond me. #kanye shrug) place as “Relationship Experts”. lol.
we’re not experts and sh*t. we just play experts on twitter.
Neither is Teeth and it hasn’t stopped him or the silly women that actually listen to him.
man…i was listening to Mary Harvey on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. some of her claims seem WAY unfounded. she can’t talk to her son or see him? She hasn’t talked to him but three times since June nor seen him in the last 6 months? WTH???
i aint saying she lying but something isn’t adding up. TJ offered to try to get them together, off air to mend fences and sh*t. I’m sure Steve was like f*ck everybody’s couch up in here up in here.
Just ordered my copy! I am way too excited to read it. Co sign with KMN, I am a newbie VSS and mostly a lurker but reading the post and comments has given me encouragement to just live life. I will not be able to attend VSB day this year but will most def be in the house next year. Congrats and I can’t wait to spend many more, red eyed half sleep nights with the entire VSB fam
“I will not be able to attend VSB day this year but will most def be in the house next year”
why not?
Ironically I will be in Philly for a conference for my job, I also live in Denver and we did not make the cut this year. Next year I will quit my job for the day to be in attendance!
work is on overrated experience anyway. take that to the bank.
thanks.
My sister goes to school at American University and I am trying to get her to come to the book signing there so please keep me posted so I can have her rearrange her entire life just to be there!
Congrats! I just ordered my book.
just one? why not two?
I’M VERY HAPPY TO BE HERE!
oh and thanks.
“To be loved, to be loved…. WHOA what a feeling!”
I <3 PJ, I just watched that this weekend…Classic!
I've gone back to lurking mostly, but had to come out of lurkdom to give you all grand Congratulations! I will definitely be adding VSB to the bookshelf! I am so happy I stumbled upon this blog at the beginning of last year. You all have kept me thoroughly entertained from day 1! Keep up the great work!
Congrats y’all. This should keep Jim Jones and the Devil at bay for a few more decades.
good thing, because there are two footnotes devoted to jim jones in the book. (out of 80 total)
thanks gangsta. jim jones (nor King Kong) have anything on us.
Regular lurker who just purchased this book via Amazon. Going to try my darndest to save this jewel as a beach read for when I’m in Mo-Bay beginning 2/12 for a week. Congratulations and thank y’all for keeping a southern VSS “infotained.”
thank you, dawn gigi
hello regular lurker! regular writer here.
thanks for supporting peace.
Champ & Panama, I find it über cool that y’all (sorry–it’s the South in me) are responding to EVERY poster in this post. I know it’s “good business,” but I’m feeling a genuine family vibe, great manners and good old fashioned home training. Thanks for reply…it made a Sista feel special and ish. See, I *have* been lurking but just can’t bring myself to cuss publically–yet.
As a frequent *lurker* on the site, I just want to actually comment today and say congratulations on your success of the site and on the new book. I will def. Purchase a copy and *kick and scream* to get it on my Book Clubs reading list!
Major #kudos & God Bless!
thanks, chan. and make sure you each buy a copy in your book club instead of passing around the same copy
hello frequent lurker. frequent writer here.
thanks for copping the coppage.
Joined the mailing list. Purchased my copy of the book and wondered why someone is ALREADY selling a used version for the low-low *Rick Ross voice*
I support VSB and I’m so glad I discovered it. Took me a while to stop lurking and actually start commenting but you all make me (and all my nerdy, quirky, sexiness) feel welcomed.
From the bottom of my almost esquire heart, I wish you all the best!! #TeamVSB n sh*t
I know right!
Said “used” version is definitely more expensive too
“Joined the mailing list. Purchased my copy of the book and wondered why someone is ALREADY selling a used version for the low-low *Rick Ross voice*”
yeah. we’ve been trying to figure that out too
lol. man, i saw that last night and fell.the.f*ck.out. im like damn…somebody’s ALREADY pawning the joint off? LMAO
thanks for supporting good music.
i would like a #teamVSB (yes with twitter hashtag and all) tee.
please and thanks.
lol
Co-sign.
LOL@accoutant minimizing browser!! You better get out my office! Super excited! Can’t wait for my book to come!!!
i’ll get out of your office as soon as your secretary stops farting
i cant wait for your book to come either! me and you? *wehere*
Yeah, so I may just order the book and sh…. Just because I like having stuff on my shelf. Not that I have space to put the books I already have places.
Dammit. I need a kindle.
*CORRECTION* Not that I have the place the books I already have all over the place.
I’ve been sick, and I’ve stayed relatively medicated. Do not hold my improper grammatical syntax against me.
“I’ve been sick, and I’ve stayed relatively medicated. Do not hold my improper grammatical syntax against me.”
yeah. it must be contagious cause reading this just gave me a migrane
you know, Improper Grammatical Syntax sounds like a band on Phineas & Ferb.
good job.
awww i get a shout out?? *tear*
i stan for VSB all day erry day and i am unashamed. CONGRATS!!!!! *throws very smart and sparkly confetti* i really love Champie and Peej like brothers
i never wantedand i am so proud of all they do, all theyve accomplished, and all the many good things that have yet to pass. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, GENTS!! and of course kudos to Ms Liz who keeps these [wonderful] fools in line and everything running smoothly–theyd be lost without her.my 3 copies (yes, three) should be waiting for me at home by the time i get back from ATL tmrw. dont forget, Champie–me and Mama Gem want our copies autographed
cant wait to celebrate at the Book Launch Party next week in Pgh. ITS ABOUT TO GO DOWN!! in epic proportions!!
<3!
“cant wait to celebrate at the Book Launch Party next week in Pgh. ITS ABOUT TO GO DOWN!! in epic proportions!!”
yeah. it should be fun. they’re gonna have liquor and pretzels and sh*t there too
you know, this was one exciting comment. now i’m excited about it.
thanks for your help though. you’re off orange duty on the 105.
bwahahahahahahaa @ Gemmie…
her editing while ignoring us on tiny chat during the xmas holidays speaks to her dedication! LMAO
*and she’s hot!
Gemmie. Sup girl?
long time lurker- can’t wait to get my hands on this book. congrats guys!
thanks and sh*t, ms (or mr.?) swag.
thanks dubs.
yay!!! CONGRATULATIONS, homies!!! This is a great day! I’m so proud of all of you. And I’m so glad I’ve been a part of this VSB family since the beginning. I feel special and sh*t. *high kick*
what the hell is a high kick?
That’s what the Rockets do to kick off the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
yep. I’m shimmying now. *looses a tassle* oops.
we love you too baby ~ said in a pimp voice
Constant lurker who just put her copy in the Amazon cart! I am that grad student, and this will be the downfall of my studies.
that’s ok. i’ll just write a note to your professors.
I’m right there with you. I wonder if I can just write “Please see The Champ” on the OChem section of my MCAT?
In either case, so happy for you all, and wishing you continued success! I never thought when I found this blog over a year ago that I would benefit so greatly from it. I always enjoy your posts as well as the resulting comments. Keep up the great work as you know all of us @ VSB will continue to support you in your endeavors. I can’t wait for Friday, so I too can have a VSB Book in my Amazon cart!
thanks for the support. it means the world to me, you are my everything, you are the only thing that matters…matters to me…
im sure i just jacked up those words.
thanks you and good night
I’m so proud to be apart of the VSB community – I do NOT miss a night of VSB and I crave yall on the weekends.
I love yall and best ta believe
When I get Paid!!!!!
I’m gonna order a book, haha
thanks and sh*t, anastasia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
crave? i like your style lady.
thanks.
Very inspiring Very Smart Brothas, very!
I need to get mine autographed though. I wanna feel fancy and stuff!
find a way to make it to d.c. or pittsburgh on the 10th, and we’ll happy oblige.
lol. you wanna feel fancy huh?
damn you pop culture phrases.
we’re not selling dreams, but the inspiration is free.
Congrats and shyt to you guys!!!!!!
Just finished ordering my copy! Yay…
thanks, triple yeah
thanks!
i’m excited! ur writing reminds me a lot of neil strauss, whose book The Game: Penetrating the Secret Society of the Pick-up Artist is f*ckin boss btw. Congrats
you know, i still haven’t read that book. i probably should. ive heard that the title is somewhat misleading
Obsidian, is that you?
lol
i dont read. im like kanye. so i’ve never heard of neil strauss, VSB, or Zeus.
Despite reading y’alls’ every word since late August, I expect lot from this book.
I’m proud of y’all and inspired.
If it is only one more link in the chain that represents my determination, I value y’alls’ efforts at realizing y’alls’ vision in authoring a book.
Getting hungrier just looking at the size of your plate.(Yes, that was a reference to Jay-Z).
BTW, I ordered my copy.
“If it is only one more link in the chain that represents my determination, I value y’alls’ efforts at realizing y’alls’ vision in authoring a book.”
this was deep and sh*t. thanks!
thanks. we expect a lot from this too. i cant wait to read it for the first time!
YAAS! I have an Amazon gift certificate that’s been just chillin’. Now I know what to get.
what were your other options?
get thee to an amazon nunnery.
Read the first 2 chapters (should’ve been working on report cards but f it) and I love it. Still laughing about the kitchen cleaning skit! Good job guys! I’m gonna order my copy today! SN* Go Steelers* (@Champ black & gold all day!)
***nodding head while listening to instrumental to “black and yellow”***
report cards can wait. greatness cannot.
i think kanye said that.
sadatay.
*pops baileys for the VSBs and that saintly VSS* UPWARD AND ONWARD!!! Can’t wait to saddown and read the book. I’ma do it asaptually.
Proud of yall #nsh*t.
thanks and sh*t, luvtron
thanks homes. like tupac said, you are appreciated. though he was talking about his momma and im not. his momma that is.
did you know she was both a black queen AND a crack fiend at the same time? amazing.
asaptually.
That is the best word I have ever read! Please tell me you invented this!
so i went to B&N yesterday (Sunday) looking for the book for some reason and was like i hope to hear about its release tonight and…..ALAS
i’m buying multiple copies for my very smart girlfriends for vday
congratulations you guys!!
thank you kindly! thank you.
Just wanted to say congrats I used to lurk and read the comments for the longest and then finally joined the madness and for some reason I haven’t be able to stay away it is like my daily fix. I have been waiting anxiously for today and just ordered two copies!! So happy for you guys and looking forward to whatever else you guys have in store for us in 2011.
thank you so much. may those two copies keep you warm at night.
I just got bought my copy from Amazon.com (plug plug) … I’m confident that the book will be just as good as your daily topics. I can’t wait to read it.
Despite the fact that I don’t comment as much as I used to, this site still keeps me from assulting coworkers and from falling asleep in class. So buying this book is the least that I can do. Congrats and sh*t …
thanks homes. and there are a lot of couches around here going uneffed.
we notice.
*falls off uneffed couch*
Well I’m definitely looking forward to reading this book. I’m that student and the worker that yall were talking about.
i was wondering where you’d gone too. all that sage advice at the club then you quit me like a pack of smokes.
i was hurt.
lol thanks
Awww..never that. If you remember my friend talk about her dude, well yea that didn’t work out. So, I guess you were right.
So happy for you all! *feelin’ all warm and happy and isht* I’m defintiely getting a copy
thanks. hoooray.
I always call VSB “one” of my fav blogs. Truth is it’s my #1 go , share to all, read EVERYDAY, often before “real” news site. But don’t let that go to ur heads & shyt!!! Seriously the writing is stellar & I’ve made real connections within this community. Can’t wait to get my copy!!!
we’re #1! we’re #1!
thanks. we won’t let anything go to our heads. we just a po’ black mens trying to make it in bel air.
Good morning Champ, everyone,
Please allow me to join in on the congratulating you and Panama Jackson on the release of your new book – hopefully, the first of many. It is always good to see such things happen in our world, and I for one wish you both (and Ms. Liz as well) much success.
[*editor's note: truncated for sanity*]
The Obsidian
Wow. O_o
Would simple “congratulations” have killed you? Good grief.
Seriously?
Right?!? Jesus, from the VSB book, to reproductive rights mating with Alpha males… Way to write a freaking thesis AND turn the spotlight back on you.
AND…
If you haven’t read it, how do you know that this book does what other books of this type tend to do? (paraphrasing)
Aren’t YOU the one telling folks that they can’t properly discuss any topic with you without reading _________ book cover to cover or following one of your links?
Bollocks.
“Would simple “congratulations” have killed you? Good grief.”
Yes… yes it would.
I’m never one to break somebody’s rice bowl, especially in a recession… so I let haters hate because thats they job. Katt Williams.
I would suggest you get your own sh*t… but you have it and no one reads it.
Yeah that was shots fired
Congrats VSB can’t wait to read the book ~JS
TL;DR.
-____________________________-
It amazes me how many people go around undiagnosed and in need of treatment. I know I say I’m crazy but it’s all jokes…you however are touched and have serious attention issues. Am I getting personal? Hell yeah. Oh and shots fired and all that sh*t.
lmbao wooooo….
my eyes glazed over when i saw his post
My eyes ALWAYS glaze over when I see the Name… My minutes are precious and sh*t.
Me too. I’m always surprised to find long threads below his comments. I’m like wow, they’re so patient. It’s all teal deer to me.
^5 to you, Ms. SFG!!!
@kingpinenut – yeah, I’m glazed as well. Couldn’t make it through the 2nd paragraph. WOOOOOOOOOWWW! (*in my best Flava Flav voice)
That’s as far as I got. I usually don’t even read that much of his posts.
you should peep our book. it aint all geared towards the sistas. its geared towards everybody. its fun for the whole family.
enjoy. and thanks.
why did I hear that like Freanik says in Freaknik the musical? lol ..
@obsidan
Ok dawg, at first I thought you were kinda funny..you know, rockin tha boat And goin hard in tha paint every day wit your comments cause u know, Im down for individuallity and ish no matter if I agree with their opinions or not. But enough is enough playa. We all get that you think your tha smartest person on this blog. We get that you’ve carved out your own niche as the “friendly neighborhood pest”. We. Got. It. Now can you just please fall back for a bit and just play nice for a while wit everyone? You’re really starting to affect my daily enjoyment of this blog. I tend to scroll past your comments now vs reading them for a good chuckle but your starting to piss me off. And in the words of Bruce Banner..”You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry”. Chillax brotha.
Btw, congrats Champ and Panama..def gonna pick up a copy or two!
And in the words of Bruce Banner..”You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry”
*gets Tx10 angry so that i can put it to use.
oops.
*walks away whistling…
This.Right.Here is the Troof
You know. This is our day to shine so your post has been truncated for the day. The rest of it may return back at later day and time. it might not. But the point is, this is getting ridiculous and you clearly are just trying to make your comments about you.
Any other day I would err on the side of open discussion and letting you contribute to the debate of the day. But today proves that’s not really what you’re about. You’re about seeing your words all over this site by any means necessary.
I am mad I had to regulate on a commenter for the first time in VSB history on such a special day for the boys. This is disappointing, but I am drawing a line in the sand. Not today. Not in my house.
Yay Liz! Flex your moderator muscles! This nig is trying to go HAM on your site and I’m glad you letting him know it’s not okay. First time in history cause this is the first time I’ve seen a commenter like him. Well done.
*slow clap*
handle ya bidness!
*applauding with high kicks and tassles*
Thank. You.
*spirit fingers*
This made me laugh
Once a cheerleader. . lol!!
GO. AWAY.
hot dang!
it’s 11:33am and i missed drama?!?!?!
*kicks trashcan
but co-signs with what everyone said nonetheless….lol
Laughing out Loud. Seriously Keisha…I can’t even abbreviate this one.
@perfect square: LMAO!!
thanks and sh*t, obsidian. (well, the liz-edited obsidain) and way not to be overly verbose and sh*t today
got dangit i always miss the drama.
*e-fights Obsidian just because of comments on his comment that i missed.*
Y’all Moving on Up!!!
Congrats!
as long as its to the east side i’m cool. i seen what the westside has to offer. i’m not about that.
tokyo drift.
Oh this is hilariously entertaining.
Some day, maybe it would be worth it…MAYBE NOT.
It is a cute idea.
Anyways, much appreciation to Liz for maintaining the integrity of celebration and rejoicing a positive in a VSB & VSS community.
I will drink to that.
Congratz to Liz and the boys. Ha!
Delurking to yell CONGRATULATIONS to all three of you! This place is like an older brother to me. Getting my copy now
PS: I wish there was a kindle version so I wouldn’t have to wait ( and pay) for shipping. But I love y’all so it ain’t nun but a chicken wing. PPS: Please bring VSB day to Toronto! *bats eyelashes*
@femster
YASSSS!!!!
co-sign on the Tdot. dun know I’ve BEEEN sayin that for a HOT minute!!!! lol.
thanks. and we’ll see about Toronto. ive never been.
What?! VSB needs to do Caribanna!
I ordered my copy thursday,and I am anxiously awaiting its arrival.
Congrats.
If its half as entertaining as the daily posts. You all have nothing to worry about. It will be a huge success.
Sad face that I don’t live in one of the cities for the vsb , but its a strong reason for a trip out of town.
Congratulations again!
thanks a millie a millie a millie a millie a millie
While it’s tempting to smirk at the Tea Party-esque sound of the “this is about the VSB community” rhetoric, I won’t, because I’m proud of you all. I hope there’s an e-version, but if not, I’ll buy the non-green option.
Thank you for your posts and for developing good content. You’ve both certainly inspired my website in many ways. All the best!
Crystal Marie
lol. i’m all about Trees so i feel you…
Tree Party for life.
^take that how you want it.
thanks.
Congrats Champ, Panama, and Liz! I’ll be getting one for me and one for my monkey. He’ll probably just fling poop at it, but f*ck it. It’s in the name of science.
This made me choke on my spit.
LOL thanks!
what is it with monkey’s and flinging poop?
thanks.
“what is it with monkey’s and flinging poop?”
I dunno. I actually asked him one day, but his response was to fling poop at me. I still can’t figure out why I didn’t see it coming.
i’d rather it fling poop than the other stuff monkeys are known to fling
I’m relatively new to this blog but I really love it here and want to say congrats and sh*t.
I will be getting this book as soon as possible.
thank you. hopefully we can turn that dismay into a “HEY HEY HEY!”
Like Obama said, we do BIG things!
Congratulations. I’ma check y’all out.
thanks WIP!
Congrats!!! I can’t wait to read it!! I’m so proud of you all!!
*goes to Amazon.com*
we’re proud of you too!!!!
Congrats! My daily LOL count has skyrocketed since I started frequenting this site, and for that, I am truly grateful
Keep up the good work!! Looking forward to reading the book.
glad to be of service. thanks!
Copped. Just wanted to drop a comment and say congrats to the brothas.
thanks for copping. we appreciate the support.
YASSSSSSS!
Of course, in true VSB groupie-dom, I’ve already purchased my copy but I wanted to drop by and let you guys know how proud I am of you and how honored I am to even be a part of this big deal just by being a member of your familial community. This entire post has made my face collapse into awwwww-face and I just want y’all know how 87% gay VSB makes me. Thanks.
*hugs all around*
*hugs back atcha*
thanks for all the love cheekster.
Congratulations! Much success.
l’chaim!
*does the cabbage patch*
congrats yall!!!!!!!! bought my copy, so pumped
thank you thank you
VIP list > >>> CHECK!
Book ordered>>>> CHECK!!!!
Congratulations and continued success to you VSBs!
thanks. j.daymia.
I just bought your book. I’ll buy a second if I can get an autographed picture of you and Panama naked on a leopard sofa with Zorro masks. Thank you.
But seriously, congratulations and sh*t. I’ll def spread the word. Since you guys are getting official and I must refer people here, it’s going to be difficult to type uncut but it’s all for the better. What makes VSB so unique is the community. I haven’t seen any other blog with followers like yours. I hope the community of VSB doesn’t change with all the fame. One thing I can’t stand is the mega egos some other bloggers have, but not at VSB. You guys could care less about popularity and focus more on the writing and issues you blog about. You don’t look to your readers to fluff your egos and that’s refreshing. Anywho, enough @ss kissing. I want my picture.
DITTO I’m ordering my book now. Can I get mine autographed on February 10?
um…for the record for the non-readers out there. no such picture exists. LOL
i repeat. no such picture exists.
thanks for the love SFoxxyG.
we keep it real ’round these parts as do you. lol. thanks for sleepwalking.
Hi y’all. I’m a lurker, but like so many of my co-lurkers, I’ve come out of hiding to say congratulations and sh*t. I’m proud like I know you. Can’t wait to get my copy.
<3
hello bella. lurk no more. come out of the shadows into the light of smartness.
welcome my child.
*church hug*
thanks!
Congrats again Champ, P & Liz!!!
Been reading VSB since 2008 and it gets more inspiring and thought provoking every year. I snagged my copy and am looking forward to VSB Day – ATL Edition (Hopefully nothing prevents me from attending from now and the 10th).
Keep winning…we pulling for y’all.
@AkShone
“Been reading VSB since 2008″
I’ve been here almost as long. I can’t believe how long I’ve been commenting. I lurked for a good 3-4 months.
thanks homes. we appreciate the long term support and sh*t. it keeps us going.
Congratulations Champ, Panama, and Liz!!! This is quite a milestone and certainly a well-deserved success. Next stop is Amazon to place my order.
I wish you much success as you continue to grow this entity that is VSB. In Dunbar’s immortal words “Keep A’Pluggin’ Away”.
thanks. we appreciate it
Congrats on the books fellas and lady. I will buy my copy. What section in amazon is it located? Urban Erotica or Ghetto Conspiracy theories? Its good to see what you guys do grow into something bigger. Just think pretty soon we’ll have VSB chtilin circuit plays and straight to DVD movies shown several times a day on BET and TVOne.
I believe it’s under Ridiculous Negrodom…
“Ridiculous Negrodom” is actually printed on my birth certificate. What’s up with that?
That’s what I’m talking about. When and where are the auditions for the “Very Smart Brothas” sitcom? I’d prefer TVOne to BET. They need some more shows.
i actually thought it was under Gangster Sh*t
thanks.
and i got two plays ready to go in tupelo.
Loving everything about you right now…LOLOLOL.
BTW I found it under the “Sarah Palin’s Favs” section
Love, Sex & Marriage Humor and sh*t (and, as of the writing of this comment, we’re #6 on the list)
Just ordered my copy! I’m a little confused as to how there is a used copy available for $20.70 but new copies start at 14.27.
Anywho, anyone who has a .edu email address you can register for Amazon Prime for free and get free 2-day shipping. Congrats guys! I can’t wait read it and then put it on my coffee table to see what type of reactions it provokes!
Yup i got my free shipping on with amazon prime!
I’m all about free stuff!
free shipping FTW! thanks for ordering and for the info.
Wow, I’m honored that I actually imparted some knowledge. And it’s not some janky bootlegged it’ll get there when it gets there free shipping. It’s free two-day shipping. #waitingforwednesday
“Anywho, anyone who has a .edu email address you can register for Amazon Prime for free and get free 2-day shipping.”
AtypicalLibrarian dropping that knowledge once again. I love me some free.
congrats tres amigos
Keep up the good work!
ps – save some of that loot for a new england summer island party…my “Buy a Maine Negro Island for Negros” Fund is still l.o.w.
lol. thanks homes.
just bought mine
i’m all proud of you guys like i know you or something. congrats, and good luck!
you know you know me.
thanks
Wowsers. Congrats guys!
YOWZERS! thanks
So, VSB has become part of my morning ritual. It’s kinda like my snooze button (which I LOVE!)…after the alarm rings, but before my feet hit the tiles, I’ve gotta read that morning’s post to get me “up and at ‘em”.
Thank you, lady and gentlemen, for giving me so much laughter and many thought provoking topics to get each day started! Thanks also to the VSBs and VSSs in the commenter family who keep me thoroughly entertained.
As soon as I read today’s post (but before indulging in the comments…admittedly one of my new favorite past-times), I placed my order for THREE of YDWKYWN. Two of my regular lurker friends will be as excited as I am to read. The book will surely feed the VSB need on weekends (unless I can’t put it down and blow my proverbial wad all at once).
Good job, and sh*t!!!
thanks so much. we’re glad to be such a pivotal part of your day. breakfast and VSB. its what gets you going.
I made a promise and fulfilled it…Like I said on twitter I am very proud of you guys. I found this site only a few short months ago and now its a day away from February and 3-5 bidness days away from greatness (for the book, me..I’ve been great). But yeah I won’t say good luck to you guys, I will pray (cuz prayer works) for your continued success. And even on the days when I don’t comment, or feel like its too deep in here for my e-voice to be heard, I’m still reading. Thanks for providing a positive distraction from my mudane 9-5.
you’re welcome. and thanks for letting us be a distraction.
and thanks for getting a copy
Even though me and Amazon ain’t back friends yet…I will order a copy. *sigh*
Congrats!!!! *gold stars*
thanks…what did amazon do to you?
There was a behind the scenes screw up on a time sensitive order and I spent hours being shuttled between them and the merchant. The merchant is saying I have to call Amazon because they have no record of my order. Spend hours on hold with Amazon to be told I have to call the merchant because according to Amazon its been shipped. What had happened was…Amazon sent me the wrong confirmation information. They sent me info with the name of Company A when I had in fact ordered from Company B. The mix up itself wasn’t even the issue…sh!t happens. It was the attitude/we can’t help you/you must’ve dome something wrong attitude I was given that pissed me off. Which is why I also can’t stand Bank of America.
sorry to grab hold of this tangent on such a momentous day BUT…
I will cosign any and all rants about B of A (affectionately renamed Bunch of A$$holes). Fortunately, since my move to the Caribbean, they are no longer my primary banking institution, however…let’s just sum it up…they’re customer service provides little to no service to the customer without general stankness from the person locked in their cube farm, on the other end of the line!
WHEW…I feel a better now!
Back to your regularly scheduled “Congrats, and sh*t!”.
Bank of America SUCKS A$$!!!
This is fantastic. I will definitely get a copy! So proud of you both and Liz makes three! I am sure we will see a movie out of this soon!
lol. we shall see…
“You done come a long way like those slim *ss cigarettes.”
Good job.
thanks and sh*t, deviant
Congratulations! I’m so proud of all of you and what this does for black and minority culture!!! I hope this book casts a brighter spotlight on VSB and creates more opportunities for you to conquer the world!
Can’t wait to get my book signed! :cough:how’s that book tour coming along?:cough:
“Can’t wait to get my book signed! :cough:how’s that book tour coming along?:cough:”
lol, if you can find a way to cough up some money while you’re coughing, the tour will start asap
One Monday’s post to most. Or one step to Oprah. See she reaching for show topics so she need something to talk about. I think VSB’s shot is around the corner. Hello Omni hotel on the great Magnificent Mile. We want in Oprah!
Well said!
That’s what I’m talking about!
Let’s petition for you guys to go on Oprah… I can see it already: “The Untold story of the Very Smart Black person in America”. No Soledad O’Brien.
How about a dating show of some kind on OWN? I heard it’s in need of some differently material.
Yeah and then The Champ can meat Panama face to face. & there should be bbq in the green room and after the show.
Yay for BBQ I say!
“We want in Oprah!”
thats what she said?
Wu…. dude.
Weren’t we supposed to do drinks last week or sumfin? Hit me up.
Congrats Champ, PJ and Liz! Can’t wait to read it!
thanks!
The day has finally come!! *throws celebratory confetti*
I think it’s only right that I purchase this book in time for Valentine’s Day. Since my degrees wont keep me warm, maybe this book will?!
Maybe?
No?
I can’t wait to read the book and tell my friends to buy it. Each one,teach one.
Due to my current status as a broke college student (Go Bucks!!) I won’t be able to make the National VSB Day! I just shed a solitary tear. Glory.
“I think it’s only right that I purchase this book in time for Valentine’s Day. Since my degrees wont keep me warm, maybe this book will?!”
it definitely will. each copy comes with a customized blanket with panama’s face on it
“…each copy comes with a customized blanket with panama’s face on it”
That’s actually not a bad idea for a single’s “gag” Christmas gift. Pair the book with a Snuggie.
Just finished reading the first 2 chapters…yaaay!!!
what did you think?
I think it’s swell so far and by swell, very engaging. It definitely has me on the verge of unemployment because there are excessive “lol” moments. Not a bad thing. It also has me saying “You better stop lying- that ain’t true!!!” already.
I want more, I want more…*pumps fist on desk* Book will be here Wednesday ( I signed up for that premium amazon service for a free month so I could get free express shipping! YEAH, I’m WINNING!). So, I’ll be anxious to finish it. I devour books, so I can guarantee I’ll be done by Saturday.
Woot Woooot! Fellas Fellas Fellas (and lady) *Pointing with finger guns followed by heart pound.
First off, thanks for putting in all the hard work that makes VSB possible. The site itself is amazing, and coming up with quality material every day of the week, moderating the comments, and still finding time to be a part of the discussion is incredible. All of this is the reason VSB pops up first when I type www into my browser.
Second, congrats on the book. That’s a major accomplishment. I will definitely keep a copy front and center on the book shelf to screen out potential VSSs for the Mrs. Medium Meech sash on some raiders of the lost arc type shyt.
I will definitely keep a copy front and center on the book shelf to screen out potential VSSs for the Mrs. Medium Meech sash on some raiders of the lost arc type shyt.
lol, thanks man
Yayyy!!! Congrats!!! I just purchased my copy
Cant wait for it to arrive!!!
that reminds me…i should probably buy a copy or two too
I just wanted to come out of lurk status to say congrats to the three of you. I will indeed be copping my book today and will even buy an extra few for my sisters. Love y’all and ish!
P.S I’m not bitter over not having a VSB day in my city… this year.
lol, don’t speak so soon. we’re still tallying the numbers up
You guys are definitely an inspiration & despite my ADHD and the fact that I hate reading (#DontJudgeMe) I have to support you guys even if it takes me 3 months to a year to finish (I’m a Gemini – again #DontJudgeMe) Congrats, Best Wishes, Blessings & Much Success going forward VSB!!!
thanks, man!
O. Em. Gee!!!
I gets an official shoutout??!?!?!!
*dies and goes to heaven…
On the real, I too join the chorus of congrats, the piles of praise and the like in your continued success online and now in the foray of book publishing. there are many people on her (commenters and lurkers), who will be inspired to do what they thought could not be possible. y’all ARE PUBLISHED WRITERS!!!!!! do you know how EFFEN EPIC that is???? (i’m all about alliteration today).
Special shoutout to the lurkers who have come out, hope you realize we’re not scary and love love around here!! lol.
PS: i am SOOOO sad I’ll be missing VSB day in Pitt, as I’ll be travelling to NYC the next day for OneDegreeFromMe’s event. But i VOW to attend one of the VSB cities. Even if it’s Detroit (to stalk Humble One).
PPS: I plan on keeping the notification email from VSB that says: please confirm your awesomness. That made my morning all over again!!
*leaves throwing VSB-shaped glitter all about di place
I was like Wooo Hoooo KB FTW!! lol
this comment made me all verklempt and sh*t again
PS: i am SOOOO sad I’ll be missing VSB day in Pitt, as I’ll be travelling to NYC the next day for OneDegreeFromMe’s event. But i VOW to attend one of the VSB cities. Even if it’s Detroit (to stalk Humble One).
*******************************************************************
LOL….I was wondering if there was going to be a MI event, but after THAT response, guess I’ll wait until NYC/DC is on the list…. (are they on the list?)
Congratulations guys!! It’s been a fun ride all these years… and I hope it continues some more.
I really, really want to organize the VSB day on February 10th but I might be out of town. Drats!!! Hopefully, it will all lead to the mythical VSB barbecue sooner than later…
and can I start petitioning for non-English versions of the book? Thank you very much!
*waves* hey chick!!!! I look forward to karaoke next time I see ya’ll.
Yes ma’am… I won’t be able to do the 10th… I’m still trying to, but we’ll definitely see about that karaoke!
Oh girlie, I definitely can’t it then. I will hafta catch the H-town crew another time.
we should do readings from the book at our next htown jump-off.. don’t you think??
“and can I start petitioning for non-English versions of the book?”
like, latin and sh*t?
Yup… Latin and greek for starters.
I would like to advocate for Pig Latin.
Long time follower. Delurking to say congrats to you guys. This is my favorite blog and I just purchased the book.
Can you guys press the publisher to release a kindle version?!?!? Pretty please??
Thanks for delurking and buying!
Champ is looking into a Kindle version. Should have an update by next week about this.
“Champ is looking into a Kindle version. Should have an update by next week about this.”
Thank you because I mos def want an e-book for summer travel and beach reads.
Did a multiple copy purchase so that I can witness to the unenlightened.
This whole thread has had me on the verge of tears all day I’m so proud… I keep refreshing and tearing up
Y’all complete me and sh*t ~JS
i feel like you guys are my child going off to school…. although I’m 24 and have no kids.
I’m so excited for you guys. your names are on books and sh*t. real talk. non fiction.
CONGRATS!!!!
“I’m so excited for you guys. your names are on books and sh*t. real talk. non fiction. ”
thanks and sh*t, ms. drake
oh snap!!!! Just seeing this shout-out right now. I didn’t stop by at my usual time ’round 11pm (Texas time…lol)
I look forward to reading the book, ya’ll (and that means you as well Liz) have kept me well entertained and informed throughout these past couple years, and I appreciate all ya’ll’s hard work. Most definitely will be purchasing it soon, and telling everyone else I know that they need to also.
and oh yeah, keep bangin’.
(couldn’t resist a Puffy quote)
thanks and sh*t. we couldn’t have done it without you and your throat punches
Im am white girl stoked about this! Im definitely ordering today! I am wondering when the VSB “N’shit” Tshirts are coming out?
actually, we already have a (neglected) shirt shop and sh*t
http://verysmartbrothas.spreadshirt.com/
the EFF???!!! Why did I NOT know about this??
Man, I have GOT to do a better job of…something….paying attention, maybe?
anyways, looking forward to the book! thinking about ordering….
i plan on supporting and buying the book. i do have a question though. will the book ever be available at borders? see i have this gift card i’ve been meaning to use.
LOL! Champ is working on that too…
Awesome…..hey, how about Barnes and Nobles? Another gift card scenario….
(Excited about the book! Thinking about ordering….)
champ says it’s gonna be a minute. we will def announce when that happens tho.
Hey y’all!
Wow, congrats on the book! Admittedly I’ve been absent for a while, so I found out about it through serendipitous means.
Just wanted to come through and spread some love and *Diva Dust ™* all up and through your spot.
Peace and love,
BBMo.
thanks and sh*t, OG of VSB
You’re welcome n’ sh*t.
I think a bunch of OG’s might be coming out of the woodwork to congratulate y’all today, if they haven’t already The news is spreading like wildfire. I saw it and was like “OH SH*T! For reals?!”
Good job y’all. Much love and respect.
“Don’t call it a come back!”
Congrats! I am fairly new to VSB, but it is a blog I can’t wait to read when I get a break from the kiddies. I ordered the book and I was salty you left Philly off the list, but as a Philly native and I have only recently moved back into the area I don’t know if we have enough VSB’s and VSS’s to come lol. And I read the shade you threw about Santa not coming to Philly -_-
Good job and sh*t
after y’all ninjas threw batteries at him during an Eagles game, Santa went on on strike against Philly. lol
Lol, Philly fan all day! *throws beer can*
Uh, get your facts straight there Champ. We threw (yeah I said we even though I wasn’t born yet) snowballs at a cheesy, skinny, beard half falling of his face, fake-a$$ Santa.
The Eagles sucked that year and they were too cheap to hire a real Santa so they got some 19 year kid in a santa suit out of the stands to run between some cheerleaders and the fans let em’ have it LOL.
Oh and by the way we threw batteries at that weasel J.D. Drew when he came back to play against the Phililes.
total congrats guys (and gal)!
Much Congratulations to Champ, Panama, Liz!!!!
After two years of only reading, this is so worth a 2-way conversation.
Ordering a few copies from barnes and noble (Does it make a difference to you guys? I have a gift card)
This makes a much better birthday/Christmas/anniversary/graduation/baby shower/unpromising wedding gift than my standard $20 gift card to Target.
Shout out to most of the rest of you for the insight and hilariousness that you bring to the best blog on the wwww.
Been loving VSB for a minute now. Ordered the book a second ago, and I can’t wait to read it! Congrats on all your success.
With apologies to Chaka Demus & Pliers…
“I know this website, its called VSB,
It’s Champ, Panama and Liz,
It I ever tell ya bout VSB,
You’ll only say I dunno what that is, but
A book they wrote (fa real fa real)
A book theyyy wrooote
A book they wrote, yea yea yea
A book they wrooote….”
Congratulations y’all
Congraduations on the book. Hopefully, I’ll receive it at the end of the week.
You know, football season’s over & the rabid fans are all tucked back into their padded cells till next season.
Congrats son huns!!!
aw, friggin congrats! looking at the book jacket fills one with excitement. i can think of at least 4 people i will buy this book for. ppl who will actually read/critique/sincerely enjoy. just lemme finish moving and get a first pay check. so look for me in late feb.
AND…
as if u didnt have enough work already; you guys have to figure out how to conduct a book club mtg, forum, post, mixer etc where ppl can comment, ask questions, share laughs about things in the book…collectively
hip hip hooray!
Congrats to the VSB’s! You know I will have my copy by Friday. When can I expect to see your first post here based on something from the book? That is when the real fun will commence.
How could I miss the opportunity to have The Champ and Panerama to come home to every night and snuggle up against (Ahhhh, you feel that?)… along with Liz(YOWZERS) and my degrees? Wouldn’t miss it for the world…
Keep the sheets warm for me til I get home? *sashays over to Amazon*
LOL!
Co-sign on everything said above. Congrats all day long (and I guess I should say “and sh*t” since everybody else has). Can’t wait to read it….
I’m late, since I wait to read the blog during class but Congrats!!! Love the blog and will definitely being buying the book.
just added the book to my amazon cart. I am SICK I just completed an order yesterday *weeps for shipping and handling* but I will def be getting it soon! congrats guys!
For the 753rd time, congratulations Champ, Panama, Liz, and VSB on your achievement.
FYI, I’m coming out with my own book as well. Its called, “Death of The Nice Guy: Look, The Knife Is Still In Her Hand and Her DNA is Everywhere!!”. Chapter titles will include favorites such as, Simpism, Schmimpism, Lets Be Friends, The Kanye West Impact on Music & Dating Culture and of course Ho-enomics.
After the launch of my upcoming blog, “VeryNiceBrothas.com”, where nice guys and nice gals can lament upon one another their dating woes, I hope to finally complete my work and make it availabe to the public as well.
I’m on your heels.
LOLLL
iDie kneegrow.
I’m a longtime lurker but I’m very proud of you guys (and gal) for how far you’ve taken VSB. Congrats!
Absolutely had to delurk( found this site 2yrs ago) to say; Congrats and all the other good stuff, keep doing what yall do. I shall get my own copy to show some support.
Delurked to say congrats……ima get my own copy to show support.
Everyone’s asking about e-books, kindles, borders and sh*t, how about an audio book? Seriously, I love being read to, and this ish would be that more hilarious if read by PJ and Champ.
And with all of this love, I may have to drive up to DC on the 10th. Don’t think there are enough RDU folks to host one here…
Stopping in to say “congrats”! I’m happy for y’all…2011 is bound to treat you well
Congratulations on the book! I’m def gon’ cop it.
Congrats Guys, and Liz. I’ve been lurkin a long time. Just ordered my copy and can’t wait to read!!!
Keep it up!
I’m sooooo excited for you guys! Congratulations!
Just copped a copy after checking out the first couple of chapters. Hopefully, it turns into something profitable. Good luck.
Ya’ll are currently #1 on the Movers & Shakers!!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/movers-and-shakers/books/ref=pd_nr_b_mte
Keep Hope Alive!!
I’m all late but congrats!! Just bought my copy…can’t wait to read it!
I’m really excited for you guys and it’s great to be a part of what I imagine to be very successful VSB’s history. This blog has distracted me many a day from studying for my medical boards and for that I think I might hate you guys in a lovingly way. I definitely bought my copy and will be OBSIDIANIZING (shots fired perhaps) it in all conversations, warranted or not.
Good wishes all up in the Moderation toilet bowl!! Le sigh…
Mine is on its way! And I refuse to let any of my friends read it! They will have to buy their own copy.
Big Congrats!!! I’m buying the book right now!
I dnot know if you guys will see this as it’s all late in the evening, but I definitely wat to say congrats and sh*t. When I stumbled upon this blog a fw months ago, I never would have thought that I wouldbecome a part of this wonderful online community. You guys are the ish, the reader and commenters are the ish, and dammit, I’m the ish just because I am. I will be copping the book in the morning. I cant wait read it.
SEXUAL CHOCOLATE!!!!
Pardon the typos. It’s late and I’m typing with my thumbs. I guess that’s what I get for using nucka technology for important ish.
As soon as I get on Amazon again, I’m goin to add the book to the wish list.
After reading the first 19 pages its obvious, ya’ll got that WMD, fishscale, yayo, etc.
So how long til I see ya’ll dancing on Oprah’s coach and sh*t actin a pure grade A fool because the bankroll bout to blow up like nitro?
so i’m WAY late, but i had to come say Congrats to my two favorite black bloggers with a site called VerySmartBrothas. lol.
received my copy today and it’s awesomeness. yay!
Congratulations and best wishes for a successful book. So, where are the book launch parties?
I’ve placed it in my Amazon shopping cart. Now I just need to pay my Amex bill before I click purchase.
As a newbie, just wanna say congrats & keep up the awesomeness that is VSB =-)
Can I get this book on my kindle?
Just found the VSB page, and I have to admit, you guys lift my mood. Make the book available on Kindle, and I’ll buy it.