I can honestly say this is worth writing about and applying for.
If you've ever been caught between a rock and a hard place and have a choice of food or paying a ticket, I'd pay the ticket and drink more water! Sounds crazy, but you can find a free meal anywhere. It's not often the city gives you anything, so take full advantage of it.
If you have a parking ticket and you did not pay it, the IL amnesty program will waive
50% of late charges if you pay in full by 2/14/09.
Just go to the link below for more information.
https://parkingtickets.cityofchicago.org/CPSWeb/web/SearchTickets.jsp
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
get to know your peers, they may need you..
Students of any age!
Get to know your peers.
You may never know when you'll be called to assist them!
A great example are those who know Barack and Mechelle Obama!
Here's an article you might enjoy.
Many music greats shuffled through Chicago schools
Alumnus compiles mix on iTunes to celebrate history, diversity of talent
By Carlos Sadovi | Tribune reporter
December 5, 2008
Imagine being a Chicago Public Schools student and having Rickie Lee Jones, the Staple Singers or Bo Diddley belting out songs alongside you at a school assembly?
Boasting musicians that also include Benny "King of Swing" Goodman and mega-Grammy Award winning rapper Kanye West, city schools alumni have put a major stamp on popular music during this century and last.
The district is trying to capitalize on these musical legacies by setting up an iTunes playlist spotlighting 53 songs by musicians who attended Chicago schools at one time or another during their lives.
Brad Harbaugh said he came up with the idea last spring after launching an alumni Web site—cpsalumni.org—and noting all of the artists on the district's "honor roll."
Chicago's musical soul Photos "I was struck by the number of famous musicians that we had who really changed the landscape of music," said Harbaugh, the site's editor.
Like any other registered iTunes user, Harbaugh cobbled together a playlist featuring music from Chicago schools alumni. It's accessible through the alumni site (cpsalumni.org/music) or iTunes under the iMix category. iTunes users have to pay for each of the songs, but Harbaugh said the district isn't seeing a penny of it. Instead, the district is getting attention by bragging about the number of musicians who have graced its halls over the years.
The playlist spans the decades, including "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" by Dunbar High School's Lou Rawls, "Renegade" by South Side rockers Styx, "I Feel for You" by Kenwood Academy's Chaka Khan and "Hey Mama" by West.
Harbaugh said he intended the project as a playful challenge to other urban school districts like Los Angeles and New York City, thinking those districts also might want to compile songs from their famous former students. He said he believes Chicago's district is the first to do so.
"What I take out of this is that from the Chicago Public Schools you can go anywhere and do anything," Harbaugh said. "We want students today and people today to know that the sky is the limit."
Along with Goodman, who attended Harrison High School and Shepard Elementary, and West, who attended Vanderpoel Elementary, the playlist includes soul great Sam Cooke, a Phillips High School alum. His song "A Change is Gonna Come" has been called an unofficial anthem of President-elect Barack Obama's campaign.
Harbaugh said he was most surprised to find that music great Quincy Jones had attended Raymond Elementary before moving to Seattle and starting his music career. Jones has two songs in the mix.
Not included on the list? Rap stars Twista, Rhymefest and Da Brat—all Chicago schools alumni.
"We were unable to find a clean version of songs we wanted to include," Harbaugh said.
csadovi@tribune.com
Get to know your peers.
You may never know when you'll be called to assist them!
A great example are those who know Barack and Mechelle Obama!
Here's an article you might enjoy.
Many music greats shuffled through Chicago schools
Alumnus compiles mix on iTunes to celebrate history, diversity of talent
By Carlos Sadovi | Tribune reporter
December 5, 2008
Imagine being a Chicago Public Schools student and having Rickie Lee Jones, the Staple Singers or Bo Diddley belting out songs alongside you at a school assembly?
Boasting musicians that also include Benny "King of Swing" Goodman and mega-Grammy Award winning rapper Kanye West, city schools alumni have put a major stamp on popular music during this century and last.
The district is trying to capitalize on these musical legacies by setting up an iTunes playlist spotlighting 53 songs by musicians who attended Chicago schools at one time or another during their lives.
Brad Harbaugh said he came up with the idea last spring after launching an alumni Web site—cpsalumni.org—and noting all of the artists on the district's "honor roll."
Chicago's musical soul Photos "I was struck by the number of famous musicians that we had who really changed the landscape of music," said Harbaugh, the site's editor.
Like any other registered iTunes user, Harbaugh cobbled together a playlist featuring music from Chicago schools alumni. It's accessible through the alumni site (cpsalumni.org/music) or iTunes under the iMix category. iTunes users have to pay for each of the songs, but Harbaugh said the district isn't seeing a penny of it. Instead, the district is getting attention by bragging about the number of musicians who have graced its halls over the years.
The playlist spans the decades, including "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" by Dunbar High School's Lou Rawls, "Renegade" by South Side rockers Styx, "I Feel for You" by Kenwood Academy's Chaka Khan and "Hey Mama" by West.
Harbaugh said he intended the project as a playful challenge to other urban school districts like Los Angeles and New York City, thinking those districts also might want to compile songs from their famous former students. He said he believes Chicago's district is the first to do so.
"What I take out of this is that from the Chicago Public Schools you can go anywhere and do anything," Harbaugh said. "We want students today and people today to know that the sky is the limit."
Along with Goodman, who attended Harrison High School and Shepard Elementary, and West, who attended Vanderpoel Elementary, the playlist includes soul great Sam Cooke, a Phillips High School alum. His song "A Change is Gonna Come" has been called an unofficial anthem of President-elect Barack Obama's campaign.
Harbaugh said he was most surprised to find that music great Quincy Jones had attended Raymond Elementary before moving to Seattle and starting his music career. Jones has two songs in the mix.
Not included on the list? Rap stars Twista, Rhymefest and Da Brat—all Chicago schools alumni.
"We were unable to find a clean version of songs we wanted to include," Harbaugh said.
csadovi@tribune.com
Sunday, December 7, 2008
who's responsible for your well being?
Of course the answer is you, but many like to spread the blame. It's so much easier that way! Being responsible for self requries courarge, consistency and a state of mind unlike others. It's hard to keep moving forward when everything around you seems to be falling down. I read this article and knew I had to share it with you!
Enjoy!
State of the Black World Conference Report: Accepting Our Responsibility
State of the Black World panelists: (Top) Ron Karenga, Rev. Wright, Willie Ricks, Louis Farrakhan, Don L. Lee, Ron Daniels, (bottom) Susan Taylor, Adelaide Sanford, Dudley Thompson, & Sonia Sanchez.
Originally uploaded by Pan-African News Wire File PhotosState of the Black World: Accepting our responsibility
By Ashahed M. Muhammad
Assistant Editor
Updated Nov 26, 2008, 04:11 pm
NEW ORLEANS (FinalCall.com) - Beyond egos, competing agendas and differing ideologies, the Black Nation should unite behind common principles to more effectively serve the needs of Black people, The Honorable Minister Farrakhan said during his keynote address wrapping up the State of the Black World Conference II on Nov. 23 at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.
After a stirring introduction by long-time activist and displaced Katrina survivor Mtangulizi Sanyika who described Min. Farrakhan as a “global evangelist, a theo-centric global humanist” and “a Muslim extraordinaire who loves Jesus profoundly,” the Minister immediately addressed the recent historic presidential election of Barack H. Obama and what it means to Black America.
“We have witnessed history being made and the history making event has placed on all of our shoulders a heavier responsibility,” said Min. Farrakhan. “I always try to see the hand of God in things that are happening so I can give the thing that is happening the proper respect,” said Min. Farrakhan adding that despite the fact that he cast his vote just before dawn on Nov. 4, he was “in doubt” that America would elect a Black president until late in the evening. The Minister said Mr. Obama’s victory is a sign that “God has not forsaken us,” and “is giving America a chance to redeem herself.”
“This is why I see Barack Obama as a mercy from God to the United States of America and a troubled world,” said Min. Farrakhan adding that America is in a fall from the pinnacle of power.
In a wide-ranging message also dealing with the state of Black leadership, organizations and the slave trade, Min. Farrakhan’s words brought laughter at times. His stern words filled with wisdom and guidance caused deep contemplation and reflection throughout.
The SOBWC II was first major gathering of Black leaders, thinkers, activists and scholars since the historic election of America’s first Black president.
Despite a severe economic downturn, and the typical financial challenges faced by many Black organizations, committed grassroots activists and legendary pillars of the Black Nationalist community made the journey to New Orleans, the symbol of Black suffering and poverty which came to the world’s attention after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.
Min. Farrakhan said the world’s recent events bring to mind the Biblical story of Moses who made a special prayer to God asking that He would “touch the wealth” of Pharaoh because the Children of Israel were so enamored with Pharaoh’s wealth, that they did not want to leave him.
Citing the recent collapse of several banking and financial giants, the “begging with a tin cup” by the “Big Three” American automakers—General Motors, Chrysler and Ford—and the fact that America is 10 trillion dollars in debt, it is clear that the wealth of America is in fact, being touched.
Well loved by the people of New Orleans, Min. Farrakhan has been a vocal and consistent advocate for those displaced by Hurricane Katrina. He conducted a fact-finding mission immediately following the disaster and then shortly thereafter commissioned The Final Call to produce a documentary telling the hidden truth about what happened before, during and after Katrina.
Minister Farrakhan chided the crowd for always being victimized by those who consistently work to “destroy our meager efforts for (financial) independence” with a system of laws to keep Black men and women as share croppers. The enemy kept Blacks picking cotton using education, labor laws, other legal shenanigans and actual lynchings to prevent “true emancipation.”
Unknown to many in the audience, The Minister informed them that New Orleans was at one time the hub of the American economy and considered “ground zero” of the cotton and sugar trade.
“The ugly secret of America is that this is where many of the rich bankers obtained their extraordinary wealth and power,” said Min. Farrakhan adding that during slavery, cotton was to the world economy what oil is now. He also said many Blacks found themselves in a state of perpetual slavery by wicked and deceitful slave masters.
However, even after all of that, many of us are like the Children of Israel who did not want to follow Moses when he said “Let my people go!”
“We don’t want to let him go. He has already let us go, but he is not giving us a good send off,” said the Minister. “No one can dig America out of the abyss of economic collapse” due to the wrong headed policies of the Bush administration.
“You are the only people who seek political strength on the basis of nothing,” said Min. Farrakhan noting that the Italians, the Irish and the Jewish people all established economic power then began to exert political power. He said every time we achieve one milestone, whether it is education, business ownership or voting, Black people collectively still end up in a bad condition primarily because we need to “flush out” envy, stupidity, ignorance, jealousy and envy among our people.
Speaking of his long-time allies in the struggle for Black liberation, such as Dr. Conrad Worrill and Dr. Haki Mahdubuti, the Minister told the crowd that those men helped him the most, when he first set out to rebuild the work of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad.
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin sat in the front row and listened intently nodding in agreement many times during Min. Farrakhan’s message of self help and responsibility.
“I think it is tremendous what he said,” Mayor Nagin told The Final Call. “We as Black leaders throughout the country need to come together in unity to inspire our people to be positioned for all of the opportunities the President-elect is going to bring us. Forcing us to think differently and to get off of our duffs and move the state of Black America forward, and I got it. I received it.”
African scholar-warrior Dr. Leonard Jeffries recalled how during his travels, when he was under attack, Min. Farrakhan ensured that members of the Fruit of Islam protected him understanding the importance of “security for outspoken Black people.”
“The Minister has been a blessing. I appreciate him building on the foundation he got from Malcolm X, I appreciated him going back into the wilderness and rebuilding the work of the Hon. Elijah Muhammad,” said Dr. Jeffries in between teaching sessions, photos and autographs. “I never fail to be inspired.”
“The State of the Black World Conference is the continuation of the tradition of Black people convening to find strategies and tactics to fight the challenges of Black people in America and African people worldwide,” said Dr. Conrad Worrill of the National Black United Front. “It goes back to the 19th century—the Negro Convention Movement—and this follows in that tradition and its significance with the recent election of President Elect Barack Obama finds us challenged to rise to the occasion in our organizing efforts to find solutions.”
During the five day conference, several working sessions were held calling together the great scholarship and leadership within the Black community.
A Black agenda
A town hall meeting on Nov. 20 brought together those interested in crafting a Black agenda to be addressed by the Obama administration.
“We’re here today to discuss a new way and come together like we have never come together before,” said Radio talk show host Bev Smith.
Political scientist and author Dr. Ron Walters said that for the first time, Blacks voted at a higher level than Whites in an election and remarked that Black people have “turned a corner” and that the success of Barack Obama is one that Black people can look to with a source of pride.
Bennett College president Dr. Julianne Malveaux remarked that agendas have been presented to the Obama administration by other ethnic groups, why not a Black agenda?
“The celebration is about the symbolism, but what is the substance?” asked Dr. Malveaux. “We need to lay out an agenda and that agenda is jobs, jobs, jobs. The words ‘poverty’ and ‘urban’ were banned from the (presidential) campaign. It’s up to us to raise them again,” she added.
CEO of the National Urban League Marc Morial, who also served as mayor of New Orleans from 1994 to 2002 said he had faith in President Elect Barack H. Obama because he knows the reality of urban life, having spent time as an organizer in Chicago. He also cautioned against unrealistic expectations or complacency now that a Black man is headed to the White House.
“We made history (but) we didn’t elect a messiah,” said Mr. Morial “We didn’t elect a savior. We expect him to live up to the things that he committed to, but civic engagement does not end on Election Day,” he added.
Solutions and strategies
In the Pan-African policy forum titled “The Role of the Diaspora in the Development of Africa and the Caribbean” those interested came together to discuss ways to strengthen the relationship between Africa and Blacks in America.
Ambassador Dudley Thompson defined the term Diaspora as people of African descent who are not living in Africa and said that all Black people—especially in America—should refocus their thinking on their origins.
“Think of yourself as a non-residential African who happens to be living somewhere else,” said the 92-year-old Pan-African scholar pointing out that Africa’s financial situation keeps it powerless and still victimized by neo-colonialism. “If you are broke, you cannot be free whether you are a man or a country and that even applies to large (African) countries under the control of multi-national corporations,” he added.
As a board member of the TransAfrica Forum, moderator and award winning actor Danny Glover said Black people in America have a responsibility to do what they can to help the continent by involving themselves in “strategic and important dialogue” along with action. He also pointed to the youth as a key component in improving the educational and economic conditions in places like Haiti and on the African continent.
“Paul Robeson once said that every generation makes its own history. I think the generation of young people was represented by the election of Barack Obama,” said Mr. Glover. “But I think it’s more than just that. There are young people out here doing great and extraordinary work in the fight for justice. We need to invest in young people and young people need to stand up to make their own history.”
The importance of Black arts
In the intergenerational workshop titled “Reviving the Black Arts and Culture Movement” several members of the Black arts community participated in an intergenerational dialogue on the future of Hip Hop and the Black freedom struggle held on Nov. 22.
“I have been blessed to impact a lot of artists that exist today. That’s why I spend my time helping up-and- coming artists deal with having lots of money and their new found fame because many people don’t know how to handle it. I feel obligated to teach,” said Kangol Kid from the legendary rap group UTFO.
Poetess Sonia Sanchez added context to the freedom struggle of the sixties which continues to this day. “Back in our day, we had to fight so we challenged the system with our words,” said Ms. Sanchez. “We were told at times that our music and poetry wasn’t real but we kept pressing on. Our two greatest influences were Malcom X and (John) Coltrane. Those two men fed us and inspired us to write in the way that we did”.
Wordsmith NYOIL also weighed in on the current state of hip hop and the bias against rappers interested in social commentary.
“There are institutions out there that only pay big money for artists with a certain celebrity status, but those artists get on the stage and say anything. They won’t invite conscious rappers like myself and others who have something to say. We as younger people need guidance from our elders,” said NYOIL. “We can’t do this without you all and sometimes I feel alone in New York. Will you help us?” he asked.
Hip hop journalist Davy D has solutions for those who feel as though that which currently exists does not represent them or provide sufficient outlets for displaying their skills and talents.
“I believe it is that aloneness that people experience at times that creates institutions. If the goal for us is only to be on BET or CNN, then we are off in our thinking,” Davy D said. “We don’t have to depend on mainstream media to put out our story, when we can do it. There are people off the block and in the hood who can do great things if we start falling back in love with one another. We need to start utilizing the resources that we all have and network to build institutions
Jasiri X, who has done a lot to infuse real world events into his lyrics by creating anthems related to the “Jena Six” case and the case of Sean Bell, had several recommendations.
“If you or anybody you know is connected to institutions, why not invite positive rappers in? I have witnessed how organizations have certain positive initiatives that we offer to represent from a hip hop standpoint and we get shut down. It would make sense to use an artist who can reach young people with their message.”
Workshop moderator Dr. Kimberly Ellis, also called Dr. Goddess brought it all home in a unified manner.
“We are not going anywhere without our elders who paved the way for us,” said Dr. Ellis. “I believe our generation is powerful and if we have the guidance of those before us we will do even more. But there must be communication between the two and a level of respect.”
On the evening of Nov. 22, the Institute of the Black World held the Legacy Awards ceremony honoring those consistently on the front lines of the struggle for Black liberation. Among those honored was Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright. After graciously thanking many of those joining him on the stage, he delivered special words of thanks and appreciation on behalf of Black people for Minister Farrakhan and the two men embraced to the cheers of the crowd.
“One of many things that the media got angry about back in April is that I would not let them tell me who my friends were, and because the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan is a friend of mine,” said Rev. Wright adding that during the controversy, the Fruit of Islam provided security for him and other Nation of Islam members stood in support of him. “While they were using me as the whipping boy, they were waiting on him (Farrakhan) to say anything. Anything. He held his peace in order that Barack may be our president. My brother, we owe a debt of gratitude that we can never repay.”
Dr. Ron Daniels, president of the Institute of the Black World called it an “incredible and powerful moment” that many at SOBWC II will not soon forget.
Though not talking much to the media over the past few months, Rev. Wright told The Final Call that it was an evening of “mixed emotions” the night he heard the news that Barack H. Obama had been elected president.
“It was like it was all worth it,” said Rev. Wright. “I told one of the reporters from the Los Angeles Times, that I had been supporting Barack for years long before many of them could even pronounce his name and to see all of that hard work come to fruition was a sign of hope with my biggest hope being that all of those that worked so hard to get him elected will continue to work (because) he can’t do this all by himself,” Rev. Wright added.
Rev. Wright also said that on the night of the election, when his family was celebrating Mr. Obama’s victory, it was painful when his name was still being tarnished in the media and that he could not be present in Grant Park for the celebration.
“It was great feeling—it was painful in that I couldn’t be there because of his support(ers) hating me—many of them—and my presence being something that would hurt him, that was painful because long before they knew him, I was pushing him and supporting him. It was like seeing one of your children finally make it to the big stage, but you can’t be there with him. It was a mixed emotion kind of night. In fact, as I was celebrating and enjoying the moment CNN mentioned my name in a negative light—that night! They won’t let it go, but it was good seeing that come to pass.”
“To see these giants coming together and to show these two men that we have their backs to see that they have each other backs,” said Dr. Daniels “We may never see that in a collective setting like this again, it was just incredible.”
Reflecting on Min. Farrakhan’s Sunday message, Dr. Worrill said Min. Farrakhan’s participation in this event as a representation of the continuation of the struggle for Black liberation, and at the same time, preparation for the passing of the torch.
“In 1970 Minister Farrakhan was the keynote speaker at the Congress of African People meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Ron Daniels, Mtangulizi Sanyika and myself, Conrad Worrill were there, and these same activists are still on the front lines, trying to make the connection with the next generation to take our place, so it is prophetic and profound that the Honorable Minster Louis Farrakhan would be speaking at a gathering that has such great tradition in our movement,” Dr. Worril added.
(Jesse Muhammad contributed to this report. Look for more coverage of the State of the Black World Conference II in the next edition of The Final Call.)
Enjoy!
State of the Black World Conference Report: Accepting Our Responsibility
State of the Black World panelists: (Top) Ron Karenga, Rev. Wright, Willie Ricks, Louis Farrakhan, Don L. Lee, Ron Daniels, (bottom) Susan Taylor, Adelaide Sanford, Dudley Thompson, & Sonia Sanchez.
Originally uploaded by Pan-African News Wire File PhotosState of the Black World: Accepting our responsibility
By Ashahed M. Muhammad
Assistant Editor
Updated Nov 26, 2008, 04:11 pm
NEW ORLEANS (FinalCall.com) - Beyond egos, competing agendas and differing ideologies, the Black Nation should unite behind common principles to more effectively serve the needs of Black people, The Honorable Minister Farrakhan said during his keynote address wrapping up the State of the Black World Conference II on Nov. 23 at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.
After a stirring introduction by long-time activist and displaced Katrina survivor Mtangulizi Sanyika who described Min. Farrakhan as a “global evangelist, a theo-centric global humanist” and “a Muslim extraordinaire who loves Jesus profoundly,” the Minister immediately addressed the recent historic presidential election of Barack H. Obama and what it means to Black America.
“We have witnessed history being made and the history making event has placed on all of our shoulders a heavier responsibility,” said Min. Farrakhan. “I always try to see the hand of God in things that are happening so I can give the thing that is happening the proper respect,” said Min. Farrakhan adding that despite the fact that he cast his vote just before dawn on Nov. 4, he was “in doubt” that America would elect a Black president until late in the evening. The Minister said Mr. Obama’s victory is a sign that “God has not forsaken us,” and “is giving America a chance to redeem herself.”
“This is why I see Barack Obama as a mercy from God to the United States of America and a troubled world,” said Min. Farrakhan adding that America is in a fall from the pinnacle of power.
In a wide-ranging message also dealing with the state of Black leadership, organizations and the slave trade, Min. Farrakhan’s words brought laughter at times. His stern words filled with wisdom and guidance caused deep contemplation and reflection throughout.
The SOBWC II was first major gathering of Black leaders, thinkers, activists and scholars since the historic election of America’s first Black president.
Despite a severe economic downturn, and the typical financial challenges faced by many Black organizations, committed grassroots activists and legendary pillars of the Black Nationalist community made the journey to New Orleans, the symbol of Black suffering and poverty which came to the world’s attention after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.
Min. Farrakhan said the world’s recent events bring to mind the Biblical story of Moses who made a special prayer to God asking that He would “touch the wealth” of Pharaoh because the Children of Israel were so enamored with Pharaoh’s wealth, that they did not want to leave him.
Citing the recent collapse of several banking and financial giants, the “begging with a tin cup” by the “Big Three” American automakers—General Motors, Chrysler and Ford—and the fact that America is 10 trillion dollars in debt, it is clear that the wealth of America is in fact, being touched.
Well loved by the people of New Orleans, Min. Farrakhan has been a vocal and consistent advocate for those displaced by Hurricane Katrina. He conducted a fact-finding mission immediately following the disaster and then shortly thereafter commissioned The Final Call to produce a documentary telling the hidden truth about what happened before, during and after Katrina.
Minister Farrakhan chided the crowd for always being victimized by those who consistently work to “destroy our meager efforts for (financial) independence” with a system of laws to keep Black men and women as share croppers. The enemy kept Blacks picking cotton using education, labor laws, other legal shenanigans and actual lynchings to prevent “true emancipation.”
Unknown to many in the audience, The Minister informed them that New Orleans was at one time the hub of the American economy and considered “ground zero” of the cotton and sugar trade.
“The ugly secret of America is that this is where many of the rich bankers obtained their extraordinary wealth and power,” said Min. Farrakhan adding that during slavery, cotton was to the world economy what oil is now. He also said many Blacks found themselves in a state of perpetual slavery by wicked and deceitful slave masters.
However, even after all of that, many of us are like the Children of Israel who did not want to follow Moses when he said “Let my people go!”
“We don’t want to let him go. He has already let us go, but he is not giving us a good send off,” said the Minister. “No one can dig America out of the abyss of economic collapse” due to the wrong headed policies of the Bush administration.
“You are the only people who seek political strength on the basis of nothing,” said Min. Farrakhan noting that the Italians, the Irish and the Jewish people all established economic power then began to exert political power. He said every time we achieve one milestone, whether it is education, business ownership or voting, Black people collectively still end up in a bad condition primarily because we need to “flush out” envy, stupidity, ignorance, jealousy and envy among our people.
Speaking of his long-time allies in the struggle for Black liberation, such as Dr. Conrad Worrill and Dr. Haki Mahdubuti, the Minister told the crowd that those men helped him the most, when he first set out to rebuild the work of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad.
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin sat in the front row and listened intently nodding in agreement many times during Min. Farrakhan’s message of self help and responsibility.
“I think it is tremendous what he said,” Mayor Nagin told The Final Call. “We as Black leaders throughout the country need to come together in unity to inspire our people to be positioned for all of the opportunities the President-elect is going to bring us. Forcing us to think differently and to get off of our duffs and move the state of Black America forward, and I got it. I received it.”
African scholar-warrior Dr. Leonard Jeffries recalled how during his travels, when he was under attack, Min. Farrakhan ensured that members of the Fruit of Islam protected him understanding the importance of “security for outspoken Black people.”
“The Minister has been a blessing. I appreciate him building on the foundation he got from Malcolm X, I appreciated him going back into the wilderness and rebuilding the work of the Hon. Elijah Muhammad,” said Dr. Jeffries in between teaching sessions, photos and autographs. “I never fail to be inspired.”
“The State of the Black World Conference is the continuation of the tradition of Black people convening to find strategies and tactics to fight the challenges of Black people in America and African people worldwide,” said Dr. Conrad Worrill of the National Black United Front. “It goes back to the 19th century—the Negro Convention Movement—and this follows in that tradition and its significance with the recent election of President Elect Barack Obama finds us challenged to rise to the occasion in our organizing efforts to find solutions.”
During the five day conference, several working sessions were held calling together the great scholarship and leadership within the Black community.
A Black agenda
A town hall meeting on Nov. 20 brought together those interested in crafting a Black agenda to be addressed by the Obama administration.
“We’re here today to discuss a new way and come together like we have never come together before,” said Radio talk show host Bev Smith.
Political scientist and author Dr. Ron Walters said that for the first time, Blacks voted at a higher level than Whites in an election and remarked that Black people have “turned a corner” and that the success of Barack Obama is one that Black people can look to with a source of pride.
Bennett College president Dr. Julianne Malveaux remarked that agendas have been presented to the Obama administration by other ethnic groups, why not a Black agenda?
“The celebration is about the symbolism, but what is the substance?” asked Dr. Malveaux. “We need to lay out an agenda and that agenda is jobs, jobs, jobs. The words ‘poverty’ and ‘urban’ were banned from the (presidential) campaign. It’s up to us to raise them again,” she added.
CEO of the National Urban League Marc Morial, who also served as mayor of New Orleans from 1994 to 2002 said he had faith in President Elect Barack H. Obama because he knows the reality of urban life, having spent time as an organizer in Chicago. He also cautioned against unrealistic expectations or complacency now that a Black man is headed to the White House.
“We made history (but) we didn’t elect a messiah,” said Mr. Morial “We didn’t elect a savior. We expect him to live up to the things that he committed to, but civic engagement does not end on Election Day,” he added.
Solutions and strategies
In the Pan-African policy forum titled “The Role of the Diaspora in the Development of Africa and the Caribbean” those interested came together to discuss ways to strengthen the relationship between Africa and Blacks in America.
Ambassador Dudley Thompson defined the term Diaspora as people of African descent who are not living in Africa and said that all Black people—especially in America—should refocus their thinking on their origins.
“Think of yourself as a non-residential African who happens to be living somewhere else,” said the 92-year-old Pan-African scholar pointing out that Africa’s financial situation keeps it powerless and still victimized by neo-colonialism. “If you are broke, you cannot be free whether you are a man or a country and that even applies to large (African) countries under the control of multi-national corporations,” he added.
As a board member of the TransAfrica Forum, moderator and award winning actor Danny Glover said Black people in America have a responsibility to do what they can to help the continent by involving themselves in “strategic and important dialogue” along with action. He also pointed to the youth as a key component in improving the educational and economic conditions in places like Haiti and on the African continent.
“Paul Robeson once said that every generation makes its own history. I think the generation of young people was represented by the election of Barack Obama,” said Mr. Glover. “But I think it’s more than just that. There are young people out here doing great and extraordinary work in the fight for justice. We need to invest in young people and young people need to stand up to make their own history.”
The importance of Black arts
In the intergenerational workshop titled “Reviving the Black Arts and Culture Movement” several members of the Black arts community participated in an intergenerational dialogue on the future of Hip Hop and the Black freedom struggle held on Nov. 22.
“I have been blessed to impact a lot of artists that exist today. That’s why I spend my time helping up-and- coming artists deal with having lots of money and their new found fame because many people don’t know how to handle it. I feel obligated to teach,” said Kangol Kid from the legendary rap group UTFO.
Poetess Sonia Sanchez added context to the freedom struggle of the sixties which continues to this day. “Back in our day, we had to fight so we challenged the system with our words,” said Ms. Sanchez. “We were told at times that our music and poetry wasn’t real but we kept pressing on. Our two greatest influences were Malcom X and (John) Coltrane. Those two men fed us and inspired us to write in the way that we did”.
Wordsmith NYOIL also weighed in on the current state of hip hop and the bias against rappers interested in social commentary.
“There are institutions out there that only pay big money for artists with a certain celebrity status, but those artists get on the stage and say anything. They won’t invite conscious rappers like myself and others who have something to say. We as younger people need guidance from our elders,” said NYOIL. “We can’t do this without you all and sometimes I feel alone in New York. Will you help us?” he asked.
Hip hop journalist Davy D has solutions for those who feel as though that which currently exists does not represent them or provide sufficient outlets for displaying their skills and talents.
“I believe it is that aloneness that people experience at times that creates institutions. If the goal for us is only to be on BET or CNN, then we are off in our thinking,” Davy D said. “We don’t have to depend on mainstream media to put out our story, when we can do it. There are people off the block and in the hood who can do great things if we start falling back in love with one another. We need to start utilizing the resources that we all have and network to build institutions
Jasiri X, who has done a lot to infuse real world events into his lyrics by creating anthems related to the “Jena Six” case and the case of Sean Bell, had several recommendations.
“If you or anybody you know is connected to institutions, why not invite positive rappers in? I have witnessed how organizations have certain positive initiatives that we offer to represent from a hip hop standpoint and we get shut down. It would make sense to use an artist who can reach young people with their message.”
Workshop moderator Dr. Kimberly Ellis, also called Dr. Goddess brought it all home in a unified manner.
“We are not going anywhere without our elders who paved the way for us,” said Dr. Ellis. “I believe our generation is powerful and if we have the guidance of those before us we will do even more. But there must be communication between the two and a level of respect.”
On the evening of Nov. 22, the Institute of the Black World held the Legacy Awards ceremony honoring those consistently on the front lines of the struggle for Black liberation. Among those honored was Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright. After graciously thanking many of those joining him on the stage, he delivered special words of thanks and appreciation on behalf of Black people for Minister Farrakhan and the two men embraced to the cheers of the crowd.
“One of many things that the media got angry about back in April is that I would not let them tell me who my friends were, and because the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan is a friend of mine,” said Rev. Wright adding that during the controversy, the Fruit of Islam provided security for him and other Nation of Islam members stood in support of him. “While they were using me as the whipping boy, they were waiting on him (Farrakhan) to say anything. Anything. He held his peace in order that Barack may be our president. My brother, we owe a debt of gratitude that we can never repay.”
Dr. Ron Daniels, president of the Institute of the Black World called it an “incredible and powerful moment” that many at SOBWC II will not soon forget.
Though not talking much to the media over the past few months, Rev. Wright told The Final Call that it was an evening of “mixed emotions” the night he heard the news that Barack H. Obama had been elected president.
“It was like it was all worth it,” said Rev. Wright. “I told one of the reporters from the Los Angeles Times, that I had been supporting Barack for years long before many of them could even pronounce his name and to see all of that hard work come to fruition was a sign of hope with my biggest hope being that all of those that worked so hard to get him elected will continue to work (because) he can’t do this all by himself,” Rev. Wright added.
Rev. Wright also said that on the night of the election, when his family was celebrating Mr. Obama’s victory, it was painful when his name was still being tarnished in the media and that he could not be present in Grant Park for the celebration.
“It was great feeling—it was painful in that I couldn’t be there because of his support(ers) hating me—many of them—and my presence being something that would hurt him, that was painful because long before they knew him, I was pushing him and supporting him. It was like seeing one of your children finally make it to the big stage, but you can’t be there with him. It was a mixed emotion kind of night. In fact, as I was celebrating and enjoying the moment CNN mentioned my name in a negative light—that night! They won’t let it go, but it was good seeing that come to pass.”
“To see these giants coming together and to show these two men that we have their backs to see that they have each other backs,” said Dr. Daniels “We may never see that in a collective setting like this again, it was just incredible.”
Reflecting on Min. Farrakhan’s Sunday message, Dr. Worrill said Min. Farrakhan’s participation in this event as a representation of the continuation of the struggle for Black liberation, and at the same time, preparation for the passing of the torch.
“In 1970 Minister Farrakhan was the keynote speaker at the Congress of African People meeting in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Ron Daniels, Mtangulizi Sanyika and myself, Conrad Worrill were there, and these same activists are still on the front lines, trying to make the connection with the next generation to take our place, so it is prophetic and profound that the Honorable Minster Louis Farrakhan would be speaking at a gathering that has such great tradition in our movement,” Dr. Worril added.
(Jesse Muhammad contributed to this report. Look for more coverage of the State of the Black World Conference II in the next edition of The Final Call.)
Sunday, November 30, 2008
be like mike?
Not me, I want to be like President-Elect Barack Obama!
Do the things THEY say couldn't be done!
Be who you are, no matter what!
Do what you love!
Do what you're passionate about and watch what happens!
Barack Obama did it. So can you!
Now if that's not empowering enough for you, I don't know what to tell you!
Read one of his books, maybe that will inspire you!
Contact www.HigherLearningNetwork.org to get your copy of the 2009 Collector's Edition Calendar or one of his books. Donations Tax Deductable to the fullest extent of the law!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
The Chicago, Illinois Diversity Job Expo
There's nothing more empowering than to be able to take care of yourself and family. Tell everyone you know that's looking for a job!
Wednesday- November 12th, 2008
11:00 A.M. To 3:00 P.M.
@
The Navy Pier
600 East Grand Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611
FREE ADMISSION
FREE RECRUITING SEMINARS
Excellent Career Opportunities with Top Employers! Simply Attend This Event Anytime Throughout The Day - BUSINESS ATTIRE IS REQUIRED and MUST Bring Plenty of RESUMES. This event is no cost. Entry level to Senior level positions available.
Job Opportunities Compensation: $30,000.00 To Over $200 ,000.00 Annually
Here Are A Few Of The Employers Attending:
All Inclusive Concierge 24/7
BP Corporation
Illinois State Police Department
Denny's
Walgreens
Progressive Insurance
City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department
AXA-Advisors
Broderick Network
DiversityjobsUSA.com & Diversity Job Expos (USA)
The Latin American Association
WIN $500.00 In CONTEST RAFFLE DRAWING,
For More Information On This Recruiting Event:
LOG ON TO:
www.diversityjobsusa.com/show_expo.php?id=36
OR
CALL:
(312) 924-1427
Wednesday- November 12th, 2008
11:00 A.M. To 3:00 P.M.
@
The Navy Pier
600 East Grand Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611
FREE ADMISSION
FREE RECRUITING SEMINARS
Excellent Career Opportunities with Top Employers! Simply Attend This Event Anytime Throughout The Day - BUSINESS ATTIRE IS REQUIRED and MUST Bring Plenty of RESUMES. This event is no cost. Entry level to Senior level positions available.
Job Opportunities Compensation: $30,000.00 To Over $200 ,000.00 Annually
Here Are A Few Of The Employers Attending:
All Inclusive Concierge 24/7
BP Corporation
Illinois State Police Department
Denny's
Walgreens
Progressive Insurance
City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department
AXA-Advisors
Broderick Network
DiversityjobsUSA.com & Diversity Job Expos (USA)
The Latin American Association
WIN $500.00 In CONTEST RAFFLE DRAWING,
For More Information On This Recruiting Event:
LOG ON TO:
www.diversityjobsusa.com/show_expo.php?id=36
OR
CALL:
(312) 924-1427
TheBlackList
Sites for electorial projections
These are site many politicos are using to keep up with the US electorial races,
both national and state.
http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/
http://electoral-vote.com/
These are site many politicos are using to keep up with the US electorial races,
both national and state.
http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/
http://electoral-vote.com/
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Ron Brown Scholars Program
mo' money, mo' money, mo' money!
If you know child that is about to graduate from High School this year you may know someone who can use a little help in this arena.
The Ron Brown Scholars Program seeks African-American high school seniors to receive $10,000 annually for four (4) years
to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the US. Deadlines: November 1, 2008 and January 9, 2009.
Mail application (attached), transcripts and recommendation letters in one package.
For information, contact
Ron Brown Program,
1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 206,
Charlottesville, Va. 22901;
434-964-1588;
Randreta N. Ward-Evans
Director of Development Harlem Hospital Center
212-939-1390 / 212-939-1126 (fax)
If you know child that is about to graduate from High School this year you may know someone who can use a little help in this arena.
The Ron Brown Scholars Program seeks African-American high school seniors to receive $10,000 annually for four (4) years
to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the US. Deadlines: November 1, 2008 and January 9, 2009.
Mail application (attached), transcripts and recommendation letters in one package.
For information, contact
Ron Brown Program,
1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 206,
Charlottesville, Va. 22901;
434-964-1588;
Randreta N. Ward-Evans
Director of Development Harlem Hospital Center
212-939-1390 / 212-939-1126 (fax)
Nobel Laureates in Science support for Senator Obama
This is too good to pass up!
Be sure and tell everyone you know to read this!
65 U.S. Nobel Laureates in Science send an open letter to the
American people strongly urging support for Senator Obama.
The letter marks the largest number of US Nobel Laureates - 'the nation's greatest minds' -
ever to endorse a political candidat e. Note: these are all Scientists who are concerned
about America's Economic decline.
October 14, 2008
An Open Letter to the American People,
This year's presidential election is among the most significant in our nation's history. The country urgently needs a visionary leader who can ensure the future of our traditional strengths in science and technology and who can harness those strengths to address many of our greatest problems: energy, disease, climate change, security, and economic competitiveness.
We are convinced that Senator Barack Obama is such a leader, and we urge you to join us in supporting him.
During the administration of George W. Bush, vital parts of our country's scientific enterprise have been damaged by stagnant or declining federal support. The government's scientific advisory process has been distorted by political considerations. As a result, our once dominant position in the scientific world has been shaken and our prosperity has been placed at risk. We have lost time critical for the development of new ways to provide energy, treat disease, reverse climate change, strengthen our security, and improve our economy.
We have watched Senator Obama's approach to these issues with admiration. We espe cially applaud his emphasis during the campaign on the power of science and technology to enhance our nation's competitiveness. In particular, we support the measures he plans to take - through new initiatives in education and training, expanded research funding, an unbiased process for obtaining scientific advice, and an appropriate balance of basic and applied research - to meet the nation's and the world's most urgent needs.
Senator Obama understands that Presidential leadership and federal investments in science and technology are crucial elements in successful governance of the world's leading country. We hope you will join us as we work together to ensure his election in November.
Signed,
Alexei Arikosov Physics 2003Roger Guillemin Medicine 1977
Peter Agre Chemistry 2003
John L. Hall Physics 2005
Sidney Altman Chemistry 1989
Leland H. Hartwell Medicine 2001
Philip W. Anderson Physics 1977
Dudley Herschbach Chemistry 1986
Richard Axel Medicine 2004
Roald Hoffmann Chemistry 1981
David Baltimore Medicine 1975
H. Robert Horvitz Medicine 2002
Baruj Benacerraf Medicine 19 80
Louis Ignarro Medicine 1998
Paul Berg Chemistry 1980
Eric R. Kandel Medicine 2000
J. Michael Bishop Medicine 1989
Walter Kohn Chemistry 1998
N. Bloembergen Physics 1981
Roger Kornberg Chemistry 2006
Michael S. Brown Medicine 1985
Leon M. Lederman Physics 1988
Linda B. Buck Medicine 2 004
Craig C. Mello Medicine 2006
Mario R. Capecchi Medicine 2007
Yoichiro Nambu Physics 2008
Martin Chalfie Chemistry 2008
Marshall Nirenberg Medicine 1968
Stanley Cohen Medicine 1986
Douglas D. Osheroff Physics 1996
Leon Cooper Physics 1972
Stanley ;B. Prusiner Medicine 1997
James W. Cronin Physics 1980
Norman F. Ramsey Physics 1989
Robert F. Curl Chemistry 1996
Robert Richardson Physics 1996
Johann Diesenhofer Chemistry 1988
Burton Richter Physics 1976
John B. Fenn Chemistry 2002
Sherwood Rowland Chemistry 1995
Edmond H. Fischer Medicine 1992
Oliver Smithies Medicine 2007
Val Fitch Physics 1980
Richard R Schrock Chemistry 2005
Jerome I. Friedman Physics 1990
Joseph H. Taylor Jr. Physics 1993
Murray Gell-M an Physics 1969
E. Donnall Thomas Medicine 1990
Riccardo Giacconi Physics 2002
Charles H. Townes Physics 1964
Walter Gilbert Chemistry 1980
Roger Tsien Chemistry 2008
Alfred G. Gilman Medicine 1994
Daniel C.Tsui Physics 1998
Donald A. Glaser Physics 1960
Harold Varmus Medicine 1989
Shel don L. Glashow Physics 1979
James D. Watson Medicine 1962
Joseph Goldstein Medicine 1985
Eric Wieschaus Medicine 1995
Paul Greengard Medicine 2000
Frank Wilczek Physics 2004
David Gross Physics 2004
Robert W. Wilson Physics 1978
Robert H. Grubbs Chemistry 2005
The views expressed in this letter represent those of the signers acting as individual citizens.
They do not necessarily represent the views of the institutions with which they are affiliated. The
Medicine award is for 'Physiology or Medicine.'
You tube and pdf of letter available here:http://scienceblogs.com/voteforscience/2008/10/all_2008_us_nobel_laureates_in.php?utm_source=sbhomepage&utm_medium=link& utm_content=channellink
http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2008/10/14/65_US_Nobel_laureates_endorse_Obama/UPI-87491224015215/
Be sure and tell everyone you know to read this!
65 U.S. Nobel Laureates in Science send an open letter to the
American people strongly urging support for Senator Obama.
The letter marks the largest number of US Nobel Laureates - 'the nation's greatest minds' -
ever to endorse a political candidat e. Note: these are all Scientists who are concerned
about America's Economic decline.
October 14, 2008
An Open Letter to the American People,
This year's presidential election is among the most significant in our nation's history. The country urgently needs a visionary leader who can ensure the future of our traditional strengths in science and technology and who can harness those strengths to address many of our greatest problems: energy, disease, climate change, security, and economic competitiveness.
We are convinced that Senator Barack Obama is such a leader, and we urge you to join us in supporting him.
During the administration of George W. Bush, vital parts of our country's scientific enterprise have been damaged by stagnant or declining federal support. The government's scientific advisory process has been distorted by political considerations. As a result, our once dominant position in the scientific world has been shaken and our prosperity has been placed at risk. We have lost time critical for the development of new ways to provide energy, treat disease, reverse climate change, strengthen our security, and improve our economy.
We have watched Senator Obama's approach to these issues with admiration. We espe cially applaud his emphasis during the campaign on the power of science and technology to enhance our nation's competitiveness. In particular, we support the measures he plans to take - through new initiatives in education and training, expanded research funding, an unbiased process for obtaining scientific advice, and an appropriate balance of basic and applied research - to meet the nation's and the world's most urgent needs.
Senator Obama understands that Presidential leadership and federal investments in science and technology are crucial elements in successful governance of the world's leading country. We hope you will join us as we work together to ensure his election in November.
Signed,
Alexei Arikosov Physics 2003Roger Guillemin Medicine 1977
Peter Agre Chemistry 2003
John L. Hall Physics 2005
Sidney Altman Chemistry 1989
Leland H. Hartwell Medicine 2001
Philip W. Anderson Physics 1977
Dudley Herschbach Chemistry 1986
Richard Axel Medicine 2004
Roald Hoffmann Chemistry 1981
David Baltimore Medicine 1975
H. Robert Horvitz Medicine 2002
Baruj Benacerraf Medicine 19 80
Louis Ignarro Medicine 1998
Paul Berg Chemistry 1980
Eric R. Kandel Medicine 2000
J. Michael Bishop Medicine 1989
Walter Kohn Chemistry 1998
N. Bloembergen Physics 1981
Roger Kornberg Chemistry 2006
Michael S. Brown Medicine 1985
Leon M. Lederman Physics 1988
Linda B. Buck Medicine 2 004
Craig C. Mello Medicine 2006
Mario R. Capecchi Medicine 2007
Yoichiro Nambu Physics 2008
Martin Chalfie Chemistry 2008
Marshall Nirenberg Medicine 1968
Stanley Cohen Medicine 1986
Douglas D. Osheroff Physics 1996
Leon Cooper Physics 1972
Stanley ;B. Prusiner Medicine 1997
James W. Cronin Physics 1980
Norman F. Ramsey Physics 1989
Robert F. Curl Chemistry 1996
Robert Richardson Physics 1996
Johann Diesenhofer Chemistry 1988
Burton Richter Physics 1976
John B. Fenn Chemistry 2002
Sherwood Rowland Chemistry 1995
Edmond H. Fischer Medicine 1992
Oliver Smithies Medicine 2007
Val Fitch Physics 1980
Richard R Schrock Chemistry 2005
Jerome I. Friedman Physics 1990
Joseph H. Taylor Jr. Physics 1993
Murray Gell-M an Physics 1969
E. Donnall Thomas Medicine 1990
Riccardo Giacconi Physics 2002
Charles H. Townes Physics 1964
Walter Gilbert Chemistry 1980
Roger Tsien Chemistry 2008
Alfred G. Gilman Medicine 1994
Daniel C.Tsui Physics 1998
Donald A. Glaser Physics 1960
Harold Varmus Medicine 1989
Shel don L. Glashow Physics 1979
James D. Watson Medicine 1962
Joseph Goldstein Medicine 1985
Eric Wieschaus Medicine 1995
Paul Greengard Medicine 2000
Frank Wilczek Physics 2004
David Gross Physics 2004
Robert W. Wilson Physics 1978
Robert H. Grubbs Chemistry 2005
The views expressed in this letter represent those of the signers acting as individual citizens.
They do not necessarily represent the views of the institutions with which they are affiliated. The
Medicine award is for 'Physiology or Medicine.'
You tube and pdf of letter available here:http://scienceblogs.com/voteforscience/2008/10/all_2008_us_nobel_laureates_in.php?utm_source=sbhomepage&utm_medium=link& utm_content=channellink
http://www.upi.com/Science_News/2008/10/14/65_US_Nobel_laureates_endorse_Obama/UPI-87491224015215/
Reality check from Joe Biden
Self empowerement begins by trusting the voice inside of you, not outside of you!
Trust the voice that tells you the truth, not B.S!
Anyone who tells you this election is already decided is dead wrong. Let's not forget the 2000 election, when Al Gore was up by double digits in October.
The surest way to lose a race is to slow down with the finish line in sight.
We're taking no chances. We've planned the biggest get out the vote operation in history, and we need to make sure that every voter has their voice heard.
That's why we've set the goal of bringing in 100,000 new donors by Friday at midnight.
If you step up and make your first donation today, it will be matched by a previous donor.
Will you make a donation of $5 or more today and double your impact?
This campaign has fought for every inch, and now is not the time to take anything for granted.
To get out the vote, we need to knock on hundreds of thousands of doors and make even more phone calls.
This campaign has built the largest field operation in history, and we need to mobilize it in these remaining days to get every single voter to the polls on Election Day.
Because that's what it comes down to -- counting every last vote.
Make a matching donation today to make certain that when everything is on the line, we are stronger than ever:
https://donate.barackobama.com/match
We've come too far to hold back now.
Thank you for everything you're doing,
Joe
Paid for by Obama for America
Trust the voice that tells you the truth, not B.S!
Anyone who tells you this election is already decided is dead wrong. Let's not forget the 2000 election, when Al Gore was up by double digits in October.
The surest way to lose a race is to slow down with the finish line in sight.
We're taking no chances. We've planned the biggest get out the vote operation in history, and we need to make sure that every voter has their voice heard.
That's why we've set the goal of bringing in 100,000 new donors by Friday at midnight.
If you step up and make your first donation today, it will be matched by a previous donor.
Will you make a donation of $5 or more today and double your impact?
This campaign has fought for every inch, and now is not the time to take anything for granted.
To get out the vote, we need to knock on hundreds of thousands of doors and make even more phone calls.
This campaign has built the largest field operation in history, and we need to mobilize it in these remaining days to get every single voter to the polls on Election Day.
Because that's what it comes down to -- counting every last vote.
Make a matching donation today to make certain that when everything is on the line, we are stronger than ever:
https://donate.barackobama.com/match
We've come too far to hold back now.
Thank you for everything you're doing,
Joe
Paid for by Obama for America
Sunday, October 12, 2008
not going to the back of the bus...
If you haven't had the pleasure of hearing this sister speak or read any of her works, you have no excuse not to now! I love her book "Cooking With Greese!
Sistergirl sets the kitchen and the house on fire speaking from the heart about the bullshit (yeah I said it!) of politics.
You gotta see this!
So!
You really don't have to sit on the back of anything, unless you want to.
Donna Brazile: "Not going back to the back of the bus:"
http://jezebel.com/5059945/donna-brazile-is-not-going-to-the-back-of-the-bus?autoplay=true
Sistergirl sets the kitchen and the house on fire speaking from the heart about the bullshit (yeah I said it!) of politics.
You gotta see this!
So!
You really don't have to sit on the back of anything, unless you want to.
Donna Brazile: "Not going back to the back of the bus:"
http://jezebel.com/5059945/donna-brazile-is-not-going-to-the-back-of-the-bus?autoplay=true
Sunday, October 5, 2008
what do you think about congress bailout for the economy?
We all have an opinion, none more important that the other, but it sure doesn't hurt to know what someone else thinks. Hear this!
Democratic Congresswoman's Appraisal of the Bailout
This is outstanding...
Clear - Straightforward - Brutal
copy and paste this address in your browser!
http://dmiessler.com/blog/brutal-appraisal-of-the-bailout
-i-didnt-know-who-marcy-kaptur-was-but-i-do-now
Democratic Congresswoman's Appraisal of the Bailout
This is outstanding...
Clear - Straightforward - Brutal
copy and paste this address in your browser!
http://dmiessler.com/blog/brutal-appraisal-of-the-bailout
-i-didnt-know-who-marcy-kaptur-was-but-i-do-now
Sunday, September 28, 2008
you're the boss, who would you hire?
With America facing historic debt, multiple war fronts, stumbling health care, a weakened dollar, all-time high prison population, skyrocketing Federal spending, mortgage crises, bank foreclosures, etc. etc., this is an unusually critical election year.
Let's look at the educational background of your two options:
Obama:
- Occidental College - Two years.
- Columbia University - B.A. political science with a specialization in international relations.
-Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude
Biden:
- University of Delaware - B.A. in history and B.A. in political science.
- Syracuse University College of La w - Juris Doctor (J.D.)
vs.
McCain:
-United States Naval Academy - Class rank 894 of 899
Palin:
-Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
-North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
- University of Idaho - 2 semesters - journalism
-Matanuska- Susitna College - 1 semester
- University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in journalism
Now, which team are you going to hire
Let's look at the educational background of your two options:
Obama:
- Occidental College - Two years.
- Columbia University - B.A. political science with a specialization in international relations.
-Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude
Biden:
- University of Delaware - B.A. in history and B.A. in political science.
- Syracuse University College of La w - Juris Doctor (J.D.)
vs.
McCain:
-United States Naval Academy - Class rank 894 of 899
Palin:
-Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
-North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
- University of Idaho - 2 semesters - journalism
-Matanuska- Susitna College - 1 semester
- University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in journalism
Now, which team are you going to hire
empower yourself at the polls, don't be fooled
Don;t be fooled by the tactics of the republican party!
The story is all over Progressive Talk Radio today about the
McCain campaign sending absentee ballot applications
to registered democrats or people that have donated to Obama's campaign. These ballots are deliberately
misleading and have postage paid return addresses that are for an election clerk that is outside of your city or town.
What this will end up doing is either having your vote not counted, or if you return one of these, they will cite you
for election fraud, saying that you already voted absentee.
These ballots are only being sent out in 'purple states' and this is a big deal.. This is called voter caging,
and is a huge problem.
The McCain campaign is stealing this election as we speak. Please get this information out to as many people
as you can, and tell anyone you know who has received one of these ballots that they need to contact their
city election clerk or the supervisor of elections immediately.
Also call the local media and let them know what is going on.
The main stream media is never going to cover this so we have to depend on our ground campaign
to get the word out to our voters.
The story is all over Progressive Talk Radio today about the
McCain campaign sending absentee ballot applications
to registered democrats or people that have donated to Obama's campaign. These ballots are deliberately
misleading and have postage paid return addresses that are for an election clerk that is outside of your city or town.
What this will end up doing is either having your vote not counted, or if you return one of these, they will cite you
for election fraud, saying that you already voted absentee.
These ballots are only being sent out in 'purple states' and this is a big deal.. This is called voter caging,
and is a huge problem.
The McCain campaign is stealing this election as we speak. Please get this information out to as many people
as you can, and tell anyone you know who has received one of these ballots that they need to contact their
city election clerk or the supervisor of elections immediately.
Also call the local media and let them know what is going on.
The main stream media is never going to cover this so we have to depend on our ground campaign
to get the word out to our voters.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
White Privileges: Where do they come from?
I DID NOT write this one!
Someone shared it with me, I am sharing it with you.
Peace and blessings!
This is Your Nation on White Privilege
By Tim Wise
9/13/08
For those who still can't grasp the concept of white privilege, or who are looking for some easy-to-understand examples of it, perhaps this list will help.
White privilege is when you can get pregnant at seventeen like Bristol Palin and everyone is quick to insist that your life and that of your family is a personal matter, and that no one has a right to judge you or your parents, because "every family has challenges," even as black and Latino families with similar "challenges" are regularly typified as irresponsible, pathological and arbiters of social decay.
White privilege is when you can call yourself a "fuckin' redneck," like Bristol Palin's boyfriend does, and talk about how if anyone messes with you, you'll "kick their fuckin' ass," and talk about how you like to "shoot shit" for fun, and still be viewed as a responsible, all-American boy (and a great son-in-law to be) rather than a thug.
White privilege is when you can attend four different colleges in six years like Sarah Palin did (one of which you basically failed out of, then returned to after making up some coursework at a community college), and no one questions your intelligence or commitment to achievement, whereas a person of color who did this would be viewed as unfit for college, and probably someone who only got in in the first place because of affirmative action.
White privilege is when you can claim that being mayor of a town smaller than most medium-sized colleges, and then Governor of a state with about the same number of people as the lower fifth of the island of Manhattan, makes you ready to potentially be president, and people don't all piss on themselves with laughter, while being a black U.S. Senator, two-term state Senator, and constitutional law scholar, means you're "untested."
White privilege is being able to say that you support the words "under God" in the pledge of allegiance because "if it was good enough for the founding fathers, it's good enough for me," and not be immediately disqualified from holding office--since, after all, the pledge was written in the late 1800s and the "under God" part wasn't added until the 1950s--while believing that reading accused criminals and terrorists their rights (because, ya know, the Constitution, which you used to teach at a prestigious law school requires it), is a dangerous and silly idea only supported by mushy liberals.
White privilege is being able to be a gun enthusiast and not make people immediately scared of you.
White privilege is being able to have a husband who was a member of an extremist political party that wants your state to secede from the Union, and whose motto is "Alaska first," and no one questions your patriotism or that of your family, while if you're black and your spouse merely fails to come to a 9/11 memorial so she can be home with her kids on the first day of school, people immediately think she's being disrespectful.
White privilege is being able to make fun of community organizers and the work they do--like, among other things, fight for the right of women to vote, or for civil rights, or the 8-hour workday, or an end to child labor--and people think you're being pithy and tough, but if you merely question the experience of a small town mayor and 18-month governor with no foreign policy expertise beyond a class she took in college and the fact that she lives close to Russia--you're somehow being mean, or even sexist.
White privilege is being able to convince white women who don't even agree with you on any substantive issue to vote for you and your running mate anyway, because suddenly your presence on the ticket has inspired confidence in these same white women, and made them give your party a "second look."
White privilege is being able to fire people who didn't support your political campaigns and not be accused of abusing your power or being a typical politician who engages in favoritism, while being black and merely knowing some folks from the old-line political machines in Chicago means you must be corrupt.
White privilege is when you can take nearly twenty-four hours to get to a hospital after beginning to leak amniotic fluid, and still be viewed as a great mom whose commitment to her children is unquestionable, and whose "next door neighbor" qualities make her ready to be VP, while if you're a black candidate for president and you let your children be interviewed for a few seconds on TV, you're irresponsibly exploiting them.
White privilege is being able to give a 36 minute speech in which you talk about lipstick and make fun of your opponent, while laying out no substantive policy positions on any issue at all, and still manage to be considered a legitimate candidate, while a black person who gives an hour speech the week before, in which he lays out specific policy proposals on several issues, is still criticized for being too vague about what he would do if elected.
White privilege is being able to attend churches over the years whose pastors say that people who voted for John Kerry or merely criticize George W. Bush are going to hell, and that the U.S. is an explicitly Christian nation and the job of Christians is to bring Christian theological principles into government, and who bring in speakers who say the conflict in the Middle East is God's punishment on Jews for rejecting Jesus, and everyone can still think you're just a good church-going Christian, but if you're black and friends with a black pastor who has noted (as have Colin Powell and the U.S. Department of Defense) that terrorist attacks are often the result of U.S. foreign policy and who talks about the history of racism and its effect on black people, you're an extremist who probably hates America.
White privilege is not knowing what the Bush Doctrine is when asked by a reporter, and then people get angry at the reporter for asking you such a "trick question," while being black and merely refusing to give one-word answers to the queries of Bill O'Reilly means you're dodging the question, or trying to seem overly intellectual and nuanced.
White privilege is being able to go to a prestigious prep school, then to Yale and then Harvard Business school, and yet, still be seen as just an average guy (George W. Bush) while being black, going to a prestigious prep school, then Occidental College, then Columbia, and then to Harvard Law, makes you "uppity," and a snob who probably looks down on regular folks.
White privilege is being able to graduate near the bottom of your college class (McCain), or graduate with a C average from Yale (W.) and that's OK, and you're cut out to be president, but if you're black and you graduate near the top of your class from Harvard Law, you can't be trusted to make good decisions in office.
White privilege is being able to dump your first wife after she's disfigured in a car crash so you can take up with a multi-millionaire beauty queen (who you go on to call the c-word in public) and still be thought of as a man of strong family values, while if you're black and married for nearly twenty years to the same woman, your family is viewed as un-American and your gestures of affection for each other are called "terrorist fist bumps."
White privilege is being able to sing a song about bombing Iran and still be viewed as a sober and rational statesman, with the maturity to be president, while being black and suggesting that the U.S. should speak with other nations, even when we have disagreements with them, makes you "dangerously naive and immature."
White privilege is being able to claim your experience as a POW has anything at all to do with your fitness for president, while being black and experiencing racism and an absent father is apparently among the "lesser adversities" faced by other politicians, as Sarah Palin explained in her convention speech.
And finally, white privilege is the only thing that could possibly allow someone to become president when he has voted with George W. Bush 90 percent of the time, even as unemployment is skyrocketing, people are losing their homes, inflation is rising, and the U.S. is increasingly isolated from world opinion, just because white voters aren't sure about that whole "change" thing. Ya know, it's just too vague and ill-defined, unlike, say, four more years of the same, which is very concrete and certain.
White privilege is, in short, the problem.
Someone shared it with me, I am sharing it with you.
Peace and blessings!
This is Your Nation on White Privilege
By Tim Wise
9/13/08
For those who still can't grasp the concept of white privilege, or who are looking for some easy-to-understand examples of it, perhaps this list will help.
White privilege is when you can get pregnant at seventeen like Bristol Palin and everyone is quick to insist that your life and that of your family is a personal matter, and that no one has a right to judge you or your parents, because "every family has challenges," even as black and Latino families with similar "challenges" are regularly typified as irresponsible, pathological and arbiters of social decay.
White privilege is when you can call yourself a "fuckin' redneck," like Bristol Palin's boyfriend does, and talk about how if anyone messes with you, you'll "kick their fuckin' ass," and talk about how you like to "shoot shit" for fun, and still be viewed as a responsible, all-American boy (and a great son-in-law to be) rather than a thug.
White privilege is when you can attend four different colleges in six years like Sarah Palin did (one of which you basically failed out of, then returned to after making up some coursework at a community college), and no one questions your intelligence or commitment to achievement, whereas a person of color who did this would be viewed as unfit for college, and probably someone who only got in in the first place because of affirmative action.
White privilege is when you can claim that being mayor of a town smaller than most medium-sized colleges, and then Governor of a state with about the same number of people as the lower fifth of the island of Manhattan, makes you ready to potentially be president, and people don't all piss on themselves with laughter, while being a black U.S. Senator, two-term state Senator, and constitutional law scholar, means you're "untested."
White privilege is being able to say that you support the words "under God" in the pledge of allegiance because "if it was good enough for the founding fathers, it's good enough for me," and not be immediately disqualified from holding office--since, after all, the pledge was written in the late 1800s and the "under God" part wasn't added until the 1950s--while believing that reading accused criminals and terrorists their rights (because, ya know, the Constitution, which you used to teach at a prestigious law school requires it), is a dangerous and silly idea only supported by mushy liberals.
White privilege is being able to be a gun enthusiast and not make people immediately scared of you.
White privilege is being able to have a husband who was a member of an extremist political party that wants your state to secede from the Union, and whose motto is "Alaska first," and no one questions your patriotism or that of your family, while if you're black and your spouse merely fails to come to a 9/11 memorial so she can be home with her kids on the first day of school, people immediately think she's being disrespectful.
White privilege is being able to make fun of community organizers and the work they do--like, among other things, fight for the right of women to vote, or for civil rights, or the 8-hour workday, or an end to child labor--and people think you're being pithy and tough, but if you merely question the experience of a small town mayor and 18-month governor with no foreign policy expertise beyond a class she took in college and the fact that she lives close to Russia--you're somehow being mean, or even sexist.
White privilege is being able to convince white women who don't even agree with you on any substantive issue to vote for you and your running mate anyway, because suddenly your presence on the ticket has inspired confidence in these same white women, and made them give your party a "second look."
White privilege is being able to fire people who didn't support your political campaigns and not be accused of abusing your power or being a typical politician who engages in favoritism, while being black and merely knowing some folks from the old-line political machines in Chicago means you must be corrupt.
White privilege is when you can take nearly twenty-four hours to get to a hospital after beginning to leak amniotic fluid, and still be viewed as a great mom whose commitment to her children is unquestionable, and whose "next door neighbor" qualities make her ready to be VP, while if you're a black candidate for president and you let your children be interviewed for a few seconds on TV, you're irresponsibly exploiting them.
White privilege is being able to give a 36 minute speech in which you talk about lipstick and make fun of your opponent, while laying out no substantive policy positions on any issue at all, and still manage to be considered a legitimate candidate, while a black person who gives an hour speech the week before, in which he lays out specific policy proposals on several issues, is still criticized for being too vague about what he would do if elected.
White privilege is being able to attend churches over the years whose pastors say that people who voted for John Kerry or merely criticize George W. Bush are going to hell, and that the U.S. is an explicitly Christian nation and the job of Christians is to bring Christian theological principles into government, and who bring in speakers who say the conflict in the Middle East is God's punishment on Jews for rejecting Jesus, and everyone can still think you're just a good church-going Christian, but if you're black and friends with a black pastor who has noted (as have Colin Powell and the U.S. Department of Defense) that terrorist attacks are often the result of U.S. foreign policy and who talks about the history of racism and its effect on black people, you're an extremist who probably hates America.
White privilege is not knowing what the Bush Doctrine is when asked by a reporter, and then people get angry at the reporter for asking you such a "trick question," while being black and merely refusing to give one-word answers to the queries of Bill O'Reilly means you're dodging the question, or trying to seem overly intellectual and nuanced.
White privilege is being able to go to a prestigious prep school, then to Yale and then Harvard Business school, and yet, still be seen as just an average guy (George W. Bush) while being black, going to a prestigious prep school, then Occidental College, then Columbia, and then to Harvard Law, makes you "uppity," and a snob who probably looks down on regular folks.
White privilege is being able to graduate near the bottom of your college class (McCain), or graduate with a C average from Yale (W.) and that's OK, and you're cut out to be president, but if you're black and you graduate near the top of your class from Harvard Law, you can't be trusted to make good decisions in office.
White privilege is being able to dump your first wife after she's disfigured in a car crash so you can take up with a multi-millionaire beauty queen (who you go on to call the c-word in public) and still be thought of as a man of strong family values, while if you're black and married for nearly twenty years to the same woman, your family is viewed as un-American and your gestures of affection for each other are called "terrorist fist bumps."
White privilege is being able to sing a song about bombing Iran and still be viewed as a sober and rational statesman, with the maturity to be president, while being black and suggesting that the U.S. should speak with other nations, even when we have disagreements with them, makes you "dangerously naive and immature."
White privilege is being able to claim your experience as a POW has anything at all to do with your fitness for president, while being black and experiencing racism and an absent father is apparently among the "lesser adversities" faced by other politicians, as Sarah Palin explained in her convention speech.
And finally, white privilege is the only thing that could possibly allow someone to become president when he has voted with George W. Bush 90 percent of the time, even as unemployment is skyrocketing, people are losing their homes, inflation is rising, and the U.S. is increasingly isolated from world opinion, just because white voters aren't sure about that whole "change" thing. Ya know, it's just too vague and ill-defined, unlike, say, four more years of the same, which is very concrete and certain.
White privilege is, in short, the problem.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
African American Women Evolving
Volunteers, Advocates, and Activists!!!!
Upcoming EventsAAWE's Reproductive Justice Advocacy Training
Greetings!
If you are interested in improving the lives and health of African American women and girls, then AAWE needs you! We are looking for volunteers and advocates to continue the fight for reproductive justice. We are working on some exciting new projects in an effort to connect with the community and build a base of new advocates and supporters on policies and issues that directly affect African American women. Please contact me for more information on these projects and to sign up for one of our upcoming trainings.
Sincerely,
Tamarra Coleman-Hill
AAWE's Reproductive Justice Advocacy TrainingFull Knowledge, Total Access
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AAWE has expanded its Advocacy Training! It is now a full weekend training including our sex education and reproductive health 101 curriculum. We are also working on several exciting new projects and we are recruiting new advocates to help us do the work!
Where & When
1424 E. 53rd StreetSuite 306Chicago, Illinois 60615October 18-19, 2008Sat. 9:00am-5:00pm Sun. 9:00am-2:00pm
Our mission is to increase the activism and leadership of Black women and girls in the Reproductive Justice Movement. AAWE believes that women need full knowledge and total access to as much information as possible to make informed decisions about their lives and bodies. AAWE does this by providing a critical analysis of the intersections between race, class, gender, and reproductive health. Topics in this training will include: access to reproductive healthcare, new prevention methods in the fight against HIV/AIDS and other STI's, harmful effects of feminine hygiene and other cosmetic products, sex and sexuality and becoming active in the political process.
Highlights: Understanding the legislative process. The Reproductive Justice movement. Black women and reproductive health activism. Reproductive Health 101. Healthy Sexuality. Contact Tamarra Coleman-Hill for more info: tcolemanhill@aaweonline.org
African American Women Evolving
1424 E. 53rd StreetSuite 306Chicago, Illinois 60615773-955-2709inaawe@aaweonline.orghttp://www.aaweonline.org Training is Free with one year volunteer service on one or more of AAWE's projects: The Healthy Vagina Campaign The Black Church Project "Pretty Girl Beauty Initiative" AAWE's Night Club Project: "Don't Get Caught Up, Wrap It Up"
Upcoming EventsAAWE's Reproductive Justice Advocacy Training
Greetings!
If you are interested in improving the lives and health of African American women and girls, then AAWE needs you! We are looking for volunteers and advocates to continue the fight for reproductive justice. We are working on some exciting new projects in an effort to connect with the community and build a base of new advocates and supporters on policies and issues that directly affect African American women. Please contact me for more information on these projects and to sign up for one of our upcoming trainings.
Sincerely,
Tamarra Coleman-Hill
AAWE's Reproductive Justice Advocacy TrainingFull Knowledge, Total Access
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AAWE has expanded its Advocacy Training! It is now a full weekend training including our sex education and reproductive health 101 curriculum. We are also working on several exciting new projects and we are recruiting new advocates to help us do the work!
Where & When
1424 E. 53rd StreetSuite 306Chicago, Illinois 60615October 18-19, 2008Sat. 9:00am-5:00pm Sun. 9:00am-2:00pm
Our mission is to increase the activism and leadership of Black women and girls in the Reproductive Justice Movement. AAWE believes that women need full knowledge and total access to as much information as possible to make informed decisions about their lives and bodies. AAWE does this by providing a critical analysis of the intersections between race, class, gender, and reproductive health. Topics in this training will include: access to reproductive healthcare, new prevention methods in the fight against HIV/AIDS and other STI's, harmful effects of feminine hygiene and other cosmetic products, sex and sexuality and becoming active in the political process.
Highlights: Understanding the legislative process. The Reproductive Justice movement. Black women and reproductive health activism. Reproductive Health 101. Healthy Sexuality. Contact Tamarra Coleman-Hill for more info: tcolemanhill@aaweonline.org
African American Women Evolving
1424 E. 53rd StreetSuite 306Chicago, Illinois 60615773-955-2709inaawe@aaweonline.orghttp://www.aaweonline.org Training is Free with one year volunteer service on one or more of AAWE's projects: The Healthy Vagina Campaign The Black Church Project "Pretty Girl Beauty Initiative" AAWE's Night Club Project: "Don't Get Caught Up, Wrap It Up"
Friday, September 5, 2008
Gustav empowerment?
Bad things that happen to good people all the time.
Sometimes people are empowered because of challenges.
Let us keep the families in prayer who are experiencing tragedy.
In the meantime, be sure and read this info that was sent to me.
New Orleans, September 2, 2008
The good news is that nearly two million people evacuated and were spared the direct hit of Gustav. Our sisters and brothers in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, who were not able to leave the point of the storm, lost over 100 lives. The people of the U.S. were fortunate to be able to leave.
The bad news is that most people have not been allowed to return.
Since the storm, New Orleans and numerous other coastal communities have continued 24 hour curfews and prohibited people from returning by posting law enforcement at all entrances. Officials argue that neighborhoods are without electricity and return would be challenging due to the presence of downed trees and power lines.
Locking people out is quite a hardship and also very challenging for the hundreds of thousands of displaced working families. As one local resident put it, “I understand that most public officials are saying for us to stay away as a safety aspect, but they do not realize that some of us cannot afford to stay away that long.”
Garland Robinette, a respected radio voice of WWL radio, was also pleading with elected officials on air this afternoon, “What are you going to do about the poor people who can’t afford another hotel room?”
When the average weekly wage for workers in the hotel and restaurant business is less than $400 a week, the least expensive hotel, plus gas and meals for a family since last Saturday or Sunday, can eat up a week’s wages in no time. Additionally, tens of thousands of people have also lost a week of work because most workers are not paid for the time during evacuation. That puts families two weeks of wages behind.
That it why there are widespread reports of families now parked on the side of the highway or in parking lots waiting for permission to come home.
Over 60,000 people are in 300 shelters across the South. Those who came by publicly paid buses will not be allowed to return until perhaps the weekend.
People who cannot come home are now being told to contact the Red Cross and local churches to see if they will provide bed space.
Despite our continuing problems, we are all thankful for the good fortune we have had. We are also grateful for the help of our neighbors, families and friends who have put us up, given us money for gas, and allowed us to shower and use their phones.
Nearly two million people cooperated in the evacuation. New Orleans and other coastal communities reported only a handful of arrests. This has worked really well so far. But unless officials are sensitive to the serious financial crunch that working and poor families are in, the risk is that next time large numbers of people will be less likely to evacuate.
(Note: BC recommends Bill Quigley's column about the 3rd anniversary of Katrina: Katrina Pain Index.)
BlackCommentator.com Columnist, Bill Quigley, is a human rights lawyer and law professor at Loyola University, New Orleans. He has been an active public interest lawyer since 1977 and has served as counsel with a wide range of public interest organizations on issues including Katrina social justice issues, public housing, voting rights, death penalty, living wage, civil liberties, educational reform, constitutional rights and civil disobedience. He has litigated numerous cases with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., the Advancement Project, and with the ACLU of Louisiana, for which he served as General Counsel for over 15 years. Bill is one of the lawyers for displaced residents. Additionally, Bill is the author of the forthcoming book, Storms Still Raging: Katrina, New Orleans and Social Justice. Click here to contact Mr. Quigley.
Any BlackCommentator.com article may be re-printed so long as it is re-printed in its entirety and full credit given to the author and www.BlackCommentator.com. If the re-print is on the Internet we additionally request a link back to the original piece on our Website.
Your comments are always welcome.
Sometimes people are empowered because of challenges.
Let us keep the families in prayer who are experiencing tragedy.
In the meantime, be sure and read this info that was sent to me.
New Orleans, September 2, 2008
The good news is that nearly two million people evacuated and were spared the direct hit of Gustav. Our sisters and brothers in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, who were not able to leave the point of the storm, lost over 100 lives. The people of the U.S. were fortunate to be able to leave.
The bad news is that most people have not been allowed to return.
Since the storm, New Orleans and numerous other coastal communities have continued 24 hour curfews and prohibited people from returning by posting law enforcement at all entrances. Officials argue that neighborhoods are without electricity and return would be challenging due to the presence of downed trees and power lines.
Locking people out is quite a hardship and also very challenging for the hundreds of thousands of displaced working families. As one local resident put it, “I understand that most public officials are saying for us to stay away as a safety aspect, but they do not realize that some of us cannot afford to stay away that long.”
Garland Robinette, a respected radio voice of WWL radio, was also pleading with elected officials on air this afternoon, “What are you going to do about the poor people who can’t afford another hotel room?”
When the average weekly wage for workers in the hotel and restaurant business is less than $400 a week, the least expensive hotel, plus gas and meals for a family since last Saturday or Sunday, can eat up a week’s wages in no time. Additionally, tens of thousands of people have also lost a week of work because most workers are not paid for the time during evacuation. That puts families two weeks of wages behind.
That it why there are widespread reports of families now parked on the side of the highway or in parking lots waiting for permission to come home.
Over 60,000 people are in 300 shelters across the South. Those who came by publicly paid buses will not be allowed to return until perhaps the weekend.
People who cannot come home are now being told to contact the Red Cross and local churches to see if they will provide bed space.
Despite our continuing problems, we are all thankful for the good fortune we have had. We are also grateful for the help of our neighbors, families and friends who have put us up, given us money for gas, and allowed us to shower and use their phones.
Nearly two million people cooperated in the evacuation. New Orleans and other coastal communities reported only a handful of arrests. This has worked really well so far. But unless officials are sensitive to the serious financial crunch that working and poor families are in, the risk is that next time large numbers of people will be less likely to evacuate.
(Note: BC recommends Bill Quigley's column about the 3rd anniversary of Katrina: Katrina Pain Index.)
BlackCommentator.com Columnist, Bill Quigley, is a human rights lawyer and law professor at Loyola University, New Orleans. He has been an active public interest lawyer since 1977 and has served as counsel with a wide range of public interest organizations on issues including Katrina social justice issues, public housing, voting rights, death penalty, living wage, civil liberties, educational reform, constitutional rights and civil disobedience. He has litigated numerous cases with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., the Advancement Project, and with the ACLU of Louisiana, for which he served as General Counsel for over 15 years. Bill is one of the lawyers for displaced residents. Additionally, Bill is the author of the forthcoming book, Storms Still Raging: Katrina, New Orleans and Social Justice. Click here to contact Mr. Quigley.
Any BlackCommentator.com article may be re-printed so long as it is re-printed in its entirety and full credit given to the author and www.BlackCommentator.com. If the re-print is on the Internet we additionally request a link back to the original piece on our Website.
Your comments are always welcome.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
obama empowers us all
If he can do it, so can we! There is no preference in God's eyes!
If a black man from the south side of Chicago can go to the white house, imagine what you can do! See some of the photos from his travels.
Kudo's to Metropolis for sharing this historic footage!
On the road with Barack
Traveling to Denver with Barack
Keep checking the home page for more pictures of Barack and his road to Denver.
Updating as often as possible.
www.bronzevillemetropolis.com/Ready%20or%20Not.html
www.bronzevillemetropolis.com>
Leila Khaled
Editor/Publisher
Metropolis
1900 S. Clark Street, Suite 101
Chicago, IL 60616
312-719-3515 phone
312-604-3226 fax
www.bronzevillemetropolis.com
If a black man from the south side of Chicago can go to the white house, imagine what you can do! See some of the photos from his travels.
Kudo's to Metropolis for sharing this historic footage!
On the road with Barack
Traveling to Denver with Barack
Keep checking the home page for more pictures of Barack and his road to Denver.
Updating as often as possible.
www.bronzevillemetropolis.com/Ready%20or%20Not.html
www.bronzevillemetropolis.com>
Leila Khaled
Editor/Publisher
Metropolis
1900 S. Clark Street, Suite 101
Chicago, IL 60616
312-719-3515 phone
312-604-3226 fax
www.bronzevillemetropolis.com
Sunday, August 24, 2008
an email from anthony robbins foundation
ONE. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.
THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.
FOUR. When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.
FIVE. When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.
SIX.. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.
SEVEN. Believe in love at first sight.
EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
TEN. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.
ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.
TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.
THIRTEEN. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, 'Why do you want to know?'
FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
FIFTEEN. Say 'God bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.
SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson .
SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: Resp ect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.
EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
TWENTY-ONE. Spend some time alone.
TWO. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.
THREE. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.
FOUR. When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.
FIVE. When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.
SIX.. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.
SEVEN. Believe in love at first sight.
EIGHT. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
NINE. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
TEN. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.
ELEVEN. Don't judge people by their relatives.
TWELVE. Talk slowly but think quickly.
THIRTEEN. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, 'Why do you want to know?'
FOURTEEN. Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
FIFTEEN. Say 'God bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.
SIXTEEN. When you lose, don't lose the lesson .
SEVENTEEN. Remember the three R's: Resp ect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.
EIGHTEEN. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
NINETEEN. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
TWENTY. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
TWENTY-ONE. Spend some time alone.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
self empowerment sometimes begins by keeping thoughts to self
I recieved this one from Essence Magazine. Enjoy!
Feel free to voice your own comments.
Jesse Jackson Speaks On Obama, Race, and the N-word
Civil rights activist addresses his controversial off-air remarks about the senator and explains why he’s still relevant
By Cynthia Gordy and Tatsha Robertson
More than a month has passed since the Reverend Jesse Jackson uttered remarks about Senator Barack Obama “talking down to Black people” and “telling n—s how to behave.” The comments, picked up by a microphone during a break for a Fox News interview, prompted critics to dismiss the civil rights activist and two-time U.S. presidential candidate as a relic from the past. In a candid conversation with ESSENCE editors Tatsha Robertson and Cynthia Gordy, Jackson responds to the backlash and explains why he thinks he’s just as relevant as ever.
ESSENCE.COM: Will we see you at the Democratic National Convention?
JACKSON: Absolutely.
ESSENCE.COM: Will you be playing any role at the convention?
JACKSON: No, not any particular role. I’ll be there as an Obama supporter. I have spoken at the last six Democratic conventions, so I wanted to certainly make room for more speakers and broader participation.
ESSENCE.COM: Both candidates have spoken at length on issues such as the war and the economy. Are there other issues that you’d like them to focus on more?
JACKSON: Well, I think the war is the premier issue of our time. The war is costing money, almost a trillion dollars. It’s costing lives. The war has alienated America in the world community. On the other hand, it’s not enough to stop investing in the war. Let’s now reinvest in America. We need an urban policy within our cities. Nearly fifty percent of Black men in New York City are unemployed. Bridges are collapsing, levees are being overrun. There must be some real plan to reinvest in America.
ESSENCE.COM: What about the criminal justice system, or social justice issues in general?
JACKSON: Well, that’s a big piece of it. You know, 2.3 million Americans are in jail. Close to 40 percent of them are Black, and nearly 20 percent are Latino. It is devastating to our families, as well as the crack-sentencing disparity.
ESSENCE.COM: Why do you think those issues are not being mentioned as much?
JACKSON: I think that becomes our job, the civil rights community, to keep the issues on the front burner that concern us the most, just like labor puts workers’ rights on the front burner, and Hispanics put on the agenda the road to citizenship, bilingual education and immigrant rights. We must keep on the agenda the issue of education, employment, social justice, and some plan to deal with the disparities of Blacks in infant mortality and short life expectancy. We’re [more susceptible to] home foreclosures, number one in unemployment.
ESSENCE.COM: You make a good point about the job of the civil rights community. But many younger African-Americans have been complaining that the old guard civil rights leaders focus too much on African-Americans as victims rather than moving the race forward. What do you think about this point of view?
JACKSON: This “old guard, new guard” is an unhealthy division. Politics must be inter-generational. You need Barack on the one hand to talk, you need Charlie Rangel, chair of House Ways & Means [Committee], and John Conyers, chair of our House Judiciary [Committee]. In politics you grow by adding and multiplying, not by subtracting and dividing. So “old guard vs. new guard” is not a healthy combination. The reality is that we achieved the right to vote, we achieved freedom, but we didn’t achieve equality, and that is the remaining civil rights work.
ESSENCE.COM: The rapper Nas and writer Kevin Powell, who is running for Congress in Brooklyn, have said that you particularly, and other civil rights leaders, are no longer relevant and need to step aside. How do you remain relevant to this newer generation?
JACKSON: The reality is that if you’re running for Congress, you need the votes of senior citizens. You need the votes of churches. You are not getting in Congress on a youth vote. That’s not the mass that you need to win a congressional seat. You need an intergenerational, multicultural coalition. And that experience cannot be thrown away. In Dr. King’s time, Dr. King was 34, but he reached out to A. Philip Randolph. It took both A. Philip Randolph and Dr. King in tandem to make the March on Washington take place.
ESSENCE.COM: Are you going to reach out to some in the younger generation to make them feel that you are relevant?
JACKSON: All you really can do is continue to serve. Who’s relevant and heroism is a matter of perception. You might take a certain hip-hop magazine—they should not say ESSENCE is not relevant; it’s just different. The divide is not the key to growth. The key to politics is growth, and if there’s growth, everybody wins.
ESSENCE.COM: Earlier on you made an argument about the need to push for social justice. A lot of these tend to get branded as “Black issues,” and some argue that Senator Obama, in particular, must tread carefully in that area, to be representative of all of America. What are your thoughts on that?
JACKSON: That’s what we did in the Rainbow Push Coalition campaign. We focused on family farmers and urban workers; a comprehensive health care plan for everybody; equal access to public education—that is a way to frame the debate. Some issues that are being pushed as “Black issues” are not. Affirmative action, for example, is not a Black issue; it’s a majority issue. Affirmative action is [a part of] Title 9 and affects majority white women. Even the voting rights struggle that has made Barack’s candidacy possible was always broader than just Black. When we went to Selma to vote in 1965, White women couldn’t serve on juries; farmers who couldn’t pay a poll tax couldn’t vote—that was not for Blacks only.
ESSENCE.COM: It’s interesting that you describe your platform as inclusive because oftentimes your presidential runs are framed as having been centered on Black people. And now Senator Obama is heralded as being very different from that—
JACKSON: We won Vermont, Alaska and Michigan because we reached out. What’s different today is not that Blacks have changed, but Whites have changed. Whites who once terrorized us and denied us the right to vote are now voting for us. Many Whites are maturing and becoming less insecure in the voting process. But we’ve been reaching out for a long time.
ESSENCE.COM: We’ve seen you champion African-American issues and fight against injustice. Many people simply want to know, when you mentioned the N-word in your off-air remarks about Obama last month—why? They want you to tell them, as an African-American, why did that happen?
JACKSON: It should not have happened. What was private talk became public controversy, and I am embarrassed by that. There is no virtue in that kind of talk, and it should always be discouraged. My appeal even then was that responsibility is a significant message, but our needs require real government intervention and private sector incentives to address the issues of unemployment, building affordable housing and making education more affordable, which really was my point. It was a very painful period for me to have gone through that. The good news is that it’s behind us now.
ESSENCE.COM: Have you talked to Obama about it?
JACKSON: Yes. As a matter of fact, he sent me a welcome to the convention and made credentials available to me. We’ve gone on to the next stage.
ESSENCE.COM: Your son disagreed with you (on the off-air comments). What do you think about your son’s comments? Is it further evidence of you not reaching a new generation?
JACKSON: Well, Jesse’s a co-chair of the campaign, and he’s also a congressman. He felt that pain of that too. He’s free to express himself, and it does not bother our relationship as father and son at all. He was taught to give his opinion in our household, and he did it in love. He’s tough, he’s smart. He has a future in politics. He didn’t want the impression to be that that my faux pas was his faux pas, because it was not. I respect his right to express himself.
ESSENCE.COM: In Senator Obama’s speech that he gave at a Chicago church this past Father's Day, he urged more Black fathers to be involved in their children’s lives. He received backlash for that—
JACKSON: Well, the message of responsibility should be broadly applied and not appear to be just directed to Blacks. Black men need to be responsible—they also need to be employed.
ESSENCE.COM: So would you say that children without fathers in the home is not that critical an issue in the Black community?
JACKSON: Men across the board must be more responsible. But again, in the context of the Black situation, we have a requirement for governmental intervention. You’ve got a million blacks in jail with three or four kids apiece; that’s a state of emergency. I think that responsibility was always embraced. But we’ve got some real structural inequality and exploitation that must also be addressed; that’s all.
ESSENCE.COM: As Senator Obama moves forward in the campaign, do you have any words of advice for him?
JACKSON: I think we have an outstanding candidate. We have the burden now to fully register and vote. There are still maybe 6 to 8 million Blacks unregistered who should not miss this hour, this opportunity. Now that we have a who, let’s focus on the what. What is an urban policy that can begin a renewed commitment to educate our children and to employ adults and provide public health care? These are the issues he has embraced. We have a candidate who has a good grasp of the issues that matter. But the burden is upon us now to maximize registration and output.
RELATED LINKS:
PHOTOS: View our 2008 Presidential candidates gallery »
Read our on-the-road talk with Barack Obama »
Find out what John McCain has planned for Black America »
Cynthia McKinney discusses her Presidential run »View celebrities in their Barack best and learn about the Obama T-Shirt business »
Barack Obama Cover
House of Representatives Apologizes to African-Americans for Slavery
Barack Obama, Immortalized in Plastic? The Senator Has His Own Action Figure
News Analysis: A Historic Win
R. Kelly Petition
To add your comments or to view all comments click here.
-5 latest comments
The main problem in the African American community is that we can not be proud of one another other. The Rev. Jesse Jackson is a great example of that. He is so use to being in the limelight and the "leader" of the community that he doesn't know how to just share the stage. Barack knows how to communicate with all races and that's why he is where he is today. What the Rev. said off air on the Bill Reilly show came from his heart. I've watched that piece over and over and there was a weird kind of hatred that erupted from Jac
-B Free
We are so disappointed in Rev. Jackson. First of all Reverend is his title. His comments and behavior do not live up to the title. He said how he feels about Obama. The timing, the place, the words--there is no explaining his way out of this one. Please Rev. Jackson, back away!
-Georgia Woman
-----blackgirlsconnect.com----- ? It is really a funny and interesting place to date attractive girls or hot guys. Many hottie videos and photos at this site, you can enjoy latest interesting videos or talk about hot topic with other friends. I've met many thoughtful singles who were trying to find true love.
-Joanna
Rev. Jackson is a wolf in sheep clothing. What is done in the dark will come to the light. Rev. Jackson comment that he made towards Ombama came from his heart.
-Dottie
One of America's premeire race hustler's puts the proverbial "foot in his mouth". Guess he had a big problem with Barack's "responsibility" speech because if it took root, he might find himself out of a job.
-Anonymous
Feel free to voice your own comments.
Jesse Jackson Speaks On Obama, Race, and the N-word
Civil rights activist addresses his controversial off-air remarks about the senator and explains why he’s still relevant
By Cynthia Gordy and Tatsha Robertson
More than a month has passed since the Reverend Jesse Jackson uttered remarks about Senator Barack Obama “talking down to Black people” and “telling n—s how to behave.” The comments, picked up by a microphone during a break for a Fox News interview, prompted critics to dismiss the civil rights activist and two-time U.S. presidential candidate as a relic from the past. In a candid conversation with ESSENCE editors Tatsha Robertson and Cynthia Gordy, Jackson responds to the backlash and explains why he thinks he’s just as relevant as ever.
ESSENCE.COM: Will we see you at the Democratic National Convention?
JACKSON: Absolutely.
ESSENCE.COM: Will you be playing any role at the convention?
JACKSON: No, not any particular role. I’ll be there as an Obama supporter. I have spoken at the last six Democratic conventions, so I wanted to certainly make room for more speakers and broader participation.
ESSENCE.COM: Both candidates have spoken at length on issues such as the war and the economy. Are there other issues that you’d like them to focus on more?
JACKSON: Well, I think the war is the premier issue of our time. The war is costing money, almost a trillion dollars. It’s costing lives. The war has alienated America in the world community. On the other hand, it’s not enough to stop investing in the war. Let’s now reinvest in America. We need an urban policy within our cities. Nearly fifty percent of Black men in New York City are unemployed. Bridges are collapsing, levees are being overrun. There must be some real plan to reinvest in America.
ESSENCE.COM: What about the criminal justice system, or social justice issues in general?
JACKSON: Well, that’s a big piece of it. You know, 2.3 million Americans are in jail. Close to 40 percent of them are Black, and nearly 20 percent are Latino. It is devastating to our families, as well as the crack-sentencing disparity.
ESSENCE.COM: Why do you think those issues are not being mentioned as much?
JACKSON: I think that becomes our job, the civil rights community, to keep the issues on the front burner that concern us the most, just like labor puts workers’ rights on the front burner, and Hispanics put on the agenda the road to citizenship, bilingual education and immigrant rights. We must keep on the agenda the issue of education, employment, social justice, and some plan to deal with the disparities of Blacks in infant mortality and short life expectancy. We’re [more susceptible to] home foreclosures, number one in unemployment.
ESSENCE.COM: You make a good point about the job of the civil rights community. But many younger African-Americans have been complaining that the old guard civil rights leaders focus too much on African-Americans as victims rather than moving the race forward. What do you think about this point of view?
JACKSON: This “old guard, new guard” is an unhealthy division. Politics must be inter-generational. You need Barack on the one hand to talk, you need Charlie Rangel, chair of House Ways & Means [Committee], and John Conyers, chair of our House Judiciary [Committee]. In politics you grow by adding and multiplying, not by subtracting and dividing. So “old guard vs. new guard” is not a healthy combination. The reality is that we achieved the right to vote, we achieved freedom, but we didn’t achieve equality, and that is the remaining civil rights work.
ESSENCE.COM: The rapper Nas and writer Kevin Powell, who is running for Congress in Brooklyn, have said that you particularly, and other civil rights leaders, are no longer relevant and need to step aside. How do you remain relevant to this newer generation?
JACKSON: The reality is that if you’re running for Congress, you need the votes of senior citizens. You need the votes of churches. You are not getting in Congress on a youth vote. That’s not the mass that you need to win a congressional seat. You need an intergenerational, multicultural coalition. And that experience cannot be thrown away. In Dr. King’s time, Dr. King was 34, but he reached out to A. Philip Randolph. It took both A. Philip Randolph and Dr. King in tandem to make the March on Washington take place.
ESSENCE.COM: Are you going to reach out to some in the younger generation to make them feel that you are relevant?
JACKSON: All you really can do is continue to serve. Who’s relevant and heroism is a matter of perception. You might take a certain hip-hop magazine—they should not say ESSENCE is not relevant; it’s just different. The divide is not the key to growth. The key to politics is growth, and if there’s growth, everybody wins.
ESSENCE.COM: Earlier on you made an argument about the need to push for social justice. A lot of these tend to get branded as “Black issues,” and some argue that Senator Obama, in particular, must tread carefully in that area, to be representative of all of America. What are your thoughts on that?
JACKSON: That’s what we did in the Rainbow Push Coalition campaign. We focused on family farmers and urban workers; a comprehensive health care plan for everybody; equal access to public education—that is a way to frame the debate. Some issues that are being pushed as “Black issues” are not. Affirmative action, for example, is not a Black issue; it’s a majority issue. Affirmative action is [a part of] Title 9 and affects majority white women. Even the voting rights struggle that has made Barack’s candidacy possible was always broader than just Black. When we went to Selma to vote in 1965, White women couldn’t serve on juries; farmers who couldn’t pay a poll tax couldn’t vote—that was not for Blacks only.
ESSENCE.COM: It’s interesting that you describe your platform as inclusive because oftentimes your presidential runs are framed as having been centered on Black people. And now Senator Obama is heralded as being very different from that—
JACKSON: We won Vermont, Alaska and Michigan because we reached out. What’s different today is not that Blacks have changed, but Whites have changed. Whites who once terrorized us and denied us the right to vote are now voting for us. Many Whites are maturing and becoming less insecure in the voting process. But we’ve been reaching out for a long time.
ESSENCE.COM: We’ve seen you champion African-American issues and fight against injustice. Many people simply want to know, when you mentioned the N-word in your off-air remarks about Obama last month—why? They want you to tell them, as an African-American, why did that happen?
JACKSON: It should not have happened. What was private talk became public controversy, and I am embarrassed by that. There is no virtue in that kind of talk, and it should always be discouraged. My appeal even then was that responsibility is a significant message, but our needs require real government intervention and private sector incentives to address the issues of unemployment, building affordable housing and making education more affordable, which really was my point. It was a very painful period for me to have gone through that. The good news is that it’s behind us now.
ESSENCE.COM: Have you talked to Obama about it?
JACKSON: Yes. As a matter of fact, he sent me a welcome to the convention and made credentials available to me. We’ve gone on to the next stage.
ESSENCE.COM: Your son disagreed with you (on the off-air comments). What do you think about your son’s comments? Is it further evidence of you not reaching a new generation?
JACKSON: Well, Jesse’s a co-chair of the campaign, and he’s also a congressman. He felt that pain of that too. He’s free to express himself, and it does not bother our relationship as father and son at all. He was taught to give his opinion in our household, and he did it in love. He’s tough, he’s smart. He has a future in politics. He didn’t want the impression to be that that my faux pas was his faux pas, because it was not. I respect his right to express himself.
ESSENCE.COM: In Senator Obama’s speech that he gave at a Chicago church this past Father's Day, he urged more Black fathers to be involved in their children’s lives. He received backlash for that—
JACKSON: Well, the message of responsibility should be broadly applied and not appear to be just directed to Blacks. Black men need to be responsible—they also need to be employed.
ESSENCE.COM: So would you say that children without fathers in the home is not that critical an issue in the Black community?
JACKSON: Men across the board must be more responsible. But again, in the context of the Black situation, we have a requirement for governmental intervention. You’ve got a million blacks in jail with three or four kids apiece; that’s a state of emergency. I think that responsibility was always embraced. But we’ve got some real structural inequality and exploitation that must also be addressed; that’s all.
ESSENCE.COM: As Senator Obama moves forward in the campaign, do you have any words of advice for him?
JACKSON: I think we have an outstanding candidate. We have the burden now to fully register and vote. There are still maybe 6 to 8 million Blacks unregistered who should not miss this hour, this opportunity. Now that we have a who, let’s focus on the what. What is an urban policy that can begin a renewed commitment to educate our children and to employ adults and provide public health care? These are the issues he has embraced. We have a candidate who has a good grasp of the issues that matter. But the burden is upon us now to maximize registration and output.
RELATED LINKS:
PHOTOS: View our 2008 Presidential candidates gallery »
Read our on-the-road talk with Barack Obama »
Find out what John McCain has planned for Black America »
Cynthia McKinney discusses her Presidential run »View celebrities in their Barack best and learn about the Obama T-Shirt business »
Barack Obama Cover
House of Representatives Apologizes to African-Americans for Slavery
Barack Obama, Immortalized in Plastic? The Senator Has His Own Action Figure
News Analysis: A Historic Win
R. Kelly Petition
To add your comments or to view all comments click here.
-5 latest comments
The main problem in the African American community is that we can not be proud of one another other. The Rev. Jesse Jackson is a great example of that. He is so use to being in the limelight and the "leader" of the community that he doesn't know how to just share the stage. Barack knows how to communicate with all races and that's why he is where he is today. What the Rev. said off air on the Bill Reilly show came from his heart. I've watched that piece over and over and there was a weird kind of hatred that erupted from Jac
-B Free
We are so disappointed in Rev. Jackson. First of all Reverend is his title. His comments and behavior do not live up to the title. He said how he feels about Obama. The timing, the place, the words--there is no explaining his way out of this one. Please Rev. Jackson, back away!
-Georgia Woman
-----blackgirlsconnect.com----- ? It is really a funny and interesting place to date attractive girls or hot guys. Many hottie videos and photos at this site, you can enjoy latest interesting videos or talk about hot topic with other friends. I've met many thoughtful singles who were trying to find true love.
-Joanna
Rev. Jackson is a wolf in sheep clothing. What is done in the dark will come to the light. Rev. Jackson comment that he made towards Ombama came from his heart.
-Dottie
One of America's premeire race hustler's puts the proverbial "foot in his mouth". Guess he had a big problem with Barack's "responsibility" speech because if it took root, he might find himself out of a job.
-Anonymous
Sunday, August 10, 2008
the monroe foundation does it again!
PLEASE DISTRIBUTE! PLEASE EMAIL FORWARD! PLEASE BRING FAMILIES! PLEASE POST!
Dear Community Partners - PLEASE POST! EMAIL ATTACHED FLYER!
FREE "BACK TO SCHOOL" IMMUNIZATIONS IN ENGLEWOOD!
FREE INFORMATION ON HEALTHY EATING & FOOD SELECTIONS!
The Monroe Foundation, in partnership with the P.E.A.C.E (People
Educated Against Crime In Englewood) Organization, and The Englewood
Streets Alternatives Project (ESAP), is pleased to invite children and
parent's to recieve FREE immunization and information on healthy food
selection "tips", at the "Englewood MENU (Meeting Eating Needs UnMet)
Back To School event.
WHEN:
Sunday, August 17, 2008
WHERE:
St. Stephen's Church
6458 South Peoria ( PARKING LOT ACROSS FROM THE "P.E.A.C.E. CENTER"
TIME: 11A.M. TO 4P.M.
FREE "BACK TO SCHOOL" IMMUNIZATIONS PROVIDED BY THE BLUE CROSS BLUE
SHIELD OF ILLINOIS "CARE VAN".
NOTE: MUST BE UP TO DATE IMMUNIZATIONS RECORDS TO CARE VAN TO RECIEVE SHOTS!
Additionally, The "MENU Project" Event Will Provide information on:
- Eating Food Selection and Eating For Children W/MENUS for Food Selections
RSVP TO:
Mother Anita @ P.E.A.C.E. Center at (773) 677-7272
The MENU Project is funded by a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois
Sponsorship Welcome.
For More Information, Contact Elder Otis Monroe @ (773) 315-9720 or
email: omonroe@themonroefoundation.org
WE ARE ASKING ENGLEWOOD COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CHURCH TO LET US KNOW IF
THEY WILL BRING CHILDREN AND PARENTS AFTER CHURCH.
Please Let Us Know by contacting Elder Monroe @ (773) 315-9720
Elder Otis C. Monroe, III
Dear Community Partners - PLEASE POST! EMAIL ATTACHED FLYER!
FREE "BACK TO SCHOOL" IMMUNIZATIONS IN ENGLEWOOD!
FREE INFORMATION ON HEALTHY EATING & FOOD SELECTIONS!
The Monroe Foundation, in partnership with the P.E.A.C.E (People
Educated Against Crime In Englewood) Organization, and The Englewood
Streets Alternatives Project (ESAP), is pleased to invite children and
parent's to recieve FREE immunization and information on healthy food
selection "tips", at the "Englewood MENU (Meeting Eating Needs UnMet)
Back To School event.
WHEN:
Sunday, August 17, 2008
WHERE:
St. Stephen's Church
6458 South Peoria ( PARKING LOT ACROSS FROM THE "P.E.A.C.E. CENTER"
TIME: 11A.M. TO 4P.M.
FREE "BACK TO SCHOOL" IMMUNIZATIONS PROVIDED BY THE BLUE CROSS BLUE
SHIELD OF ILLINOIS "CARE VAN".
NOTE: MUST BE UP TO DATE IMMUNIZATIONS RECORDS TO CARE VAN TO RECIEVE SHOTS!
Additionally, The "MENU Project" Event Will Provide information on:
- Eating Food Selection and Eating For Children W/MENUS for Food Selections
RSVP TO:
Mother Anita @ P.E.A.C.E. Center at (773) 677-7272
The MENU Project is funded by a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois
Sponsorship Welcome.
For More Information, Contact Elder Otis Monroe @ (773) 315-9720 or
email: omonroe@themonroefoundation.org
WE ARE ASKING ENGLEWOOD COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CHURCH TO LET US KNOW IF
THEY WILL BRING CHILDREN AND PARENTS AFTER CHURCH.
Please Let Us Know by contacting Elder Monroe @ (773) 315-9720
Elder Otis C. Monroe, III
Sunday, July 20, 2008
author sheila agnew
Sheila will appear at the Indianapolis Black Expo in the Meijer Authors Pavilion
for book signings and panel discussions
Indianpolis, IN
July 18-20, 2008
www.mobetterpublishing.com
Hank Stewart's
7th Annual White Linen
Literary Cafe
July 26, 2008
11:30 am - 3:30 pm
Atlanta Downtown Hilton Courtyard
Atlanta, GA
For Complete details on the Weekend Events
www.hankstewartwhitelinen.homestead.com
Mentoring with a Purpose Perhaps one of the greatest mentoring stories can be found in the Bible in the book of Ruth. This chronicles the story of Naomi, a wise woman, who provided guidance to Ruth, her daughter-in-law, after the deaths of their husbands that led them to fulfill their purpose. Naomi's plan was to send her daughter-in-law back to her family, leave Moab and return to her home country of Bethlehem in her old age. God had another plan. While attempting to depart, Ruth clung with persistence and pleaded to go with Naomi. Naomi agreed after witnessing her faithfulness and they proceeded on the journey together.
When in Bethlehem, Ruth continued her dedication to Naomi by insisting she work in the barley fields to support them. Eventually, under Naomi's mentorship, Ruth found favor in the sight of Boaz, a man of great wealth, who recognized her love and commitment to Naomi calling her a virtuous woman. He took her as his wife and through the birth of her son Jesse; she became the great grandmother of King David. Ruth and Naomi fulfilled God's purpose. Their relationship was the prelude to Ruth becoming one of the great women of the Bible.
Giving consideration to becoming a mentor can often be a challenging decision, particularly because people believe mentoring requires us to give up something we value most, time. In reality, mentoring can be rewarding and less time then we imagine. In our daily lives as leaders, teachers, entrepreneurs, career professionals and ministry, we become role models that people look to for advice and direction. Providing the same energy and focus to one person or a group of people to obtain a positive goal is essentially the basic quality for mentoring. Often without realizing in your interactions with people, you routinely listen, offer advice, guidance, and provide basic solutions to motivate others. If this sounds slightly familiar, it's probably because it sounds like you. Add a little time and you are a prime candidate to become a mentor. As a voice of invaluable assistance, you are utilizing simple communication skills.
Being involved in mentoring programs ranging from education to entrepreneurial programs for several years, I have experienced first hand the reward in lending your time and expertise to a worthwhile endeavor. Whether a day, week, month or year, please consider becoming involved in mentor programs at church, work, school or your community. You may be fulfilling your purpose.
Sheila L. Agnew
DC Curry Restaurant Opening in ATL
My good friend, Don "DC" Curry, actor, comedian and entrepreneur opened his restaurant, STAR in Atlanta.
It's a great combination of cajun food, jazz and blues in a quaint, adult atomosphere. You can see and hear DC singing Blues and Soul at the restaurant when he is not on tour. For great food and a lot of fun, visit STAR at 177 Peters Street, SW in ATL, 404-522-6139.
Finding Your Authentic Voice
I recently attended an inspiring free conference conducted by Norma T. Hollis an accomplished speaker, entrepreneur and author who says that Authenticity is the key to greater communication effectiveness and fulfilling your life's purpose. Her unique training sessions prepare you for public speaking by encouraging you to listen to your inner voice, outer voice and expressive voice to think, do and communicate. If you are a public speaker, worship leader or simply want to improve your communication skills, check Norma out at www.NormaHollisSpeaks.com
WARM WISHES TO ALL,
Sheila Agnew
Author, Speaker, Event and Project Management Mo Better Publishing
www.mobetterpublishing.com
for book signings and panel discussions
Indianpolis, IN
July 18-20, 2008
www.mobetterpublishing.com
Hank Stewart's
7th Annual White Linen
Literary Cafe
July 26, 2008
11:30 am - 3:30 pm
Atlanta Downtown Hilton Courtyard
Atlanta, GA
For Complete details on the Weekend Events
www.hankstewartwhitelinen.homestead.com
Mentoring with a Purpose Perhaps one of the greatest mentoring stories can be found in the Bible in the book of Ruth. This chronicles the story of Naomi, a wise woman, who provided guidance to Ruth, her daughter-in-law, after the deaths of their husbands that led them to fulfill their purpose. Naomi's plan was to send her daughter-in-law back to her family, leave Moab and return to her home country of Bethlehem in her old age. God had another plan. While attempting to depart, Ruth clung with persistence and pleaded to go with Naomi. Naomi agreed after witnessing her faithfulness and they proceeded on the journey together.
When in Bethlehem, Ruth continued her dedication to Naomi by insisting she work in the barley fields to support them. Eventually, under Naomi's mentorship, Ruth found favor in the sight of Boaz, a man of great wealth, who recognized her love and commitment to Naomi calling her a virtuous woman. He took her as his wife and through the birth of her son Jesse; she became the great grandmother of King David. Ruth and Naomi fulfilled God's purpose. Their relationship was the prelude to Ruth becoming one of the great women of the Bible.
Giving consideration to becoming a mentor can often be a challenging decision, particularly because people believe mentoring requires us to give up something we value most, time. In reality, mentoring can be rewarding and less time then we imagine. In our daily lives as leaders, teachers, entrepreneurs, career professionals and ministry, we become role models that people look to for advice and direction. Providing the same energy and focus to one person or a group of people to obtain a positive goal is essentially the basic quality for mentoring. Often without realizing in your interactions with people, you routinely listen, offer advice, guidance, and provide basic solutions to motivate others. If this sounds slightly familiar, it's probably because it sounds like you. Add a little time and you are a prime candidate to become a mentor. As a voice of invaluable assistance, you are utilizing simple communication skills.
Being involved in mentoring programs ranging from education to entrepreneurial programs for several years, I have experienced first hand the reward in lending your time and expertise to a worthwhile endeavor. Whether a day, week, month or year, please consider becoming involved in mentor programs at church, work, school or your community. You may be fulfilling your purpose.
Sheila L. Agnew
DC Curry Restaurant Opening in ATL
My good friend, Don "DC" Curry, actor, comedian and entrepreneur opened his restaurant, STAR in Atlanta.
It's a great combination of cajun food, jazz and blues in a quaint, adult atomosphere. You can see and hear DC singing Blues and Soul at the restaurant when he is not on tour. For great food and a lot of fun, visit STAR at 177 Peters Street, SW in ATL, 404-522-6139.
Finding Your Authentic Voice
I recently attended an inspiring free conference conducted by Norma T. Hollis an accomplished speaker, entrepreneur and author who says that Authenticity is the key to greater communication effectiveness and fulfilling your life's purpose. Her unique training sessions prepare you for public speaking by encouraging you to listen to your inner voice, outer voice and expressive voice to think, do and communicate. If you are a public speaker, worship leader or simply want to improve your communication skills, check Norma out at www.NormaHollisSpeaks.com
WARM WISHES TO ALL,
Sheila Agnew
Author, Speaker, Event and Project Management Mo Better Publishing
www.mobetterpublishing.com
Sunday, July 13, 2008
obama empowerment
Dear shelomith,
A few hours from now I will step on stage in Detroit, Michigan to announce my support for Senator Barack Obama. From now through Election Day, I intend to do whatever I can to make sure he is elected President of the United States.
Over the next four years, we are going to face many difficult challenges -- including bringing our troops home from Iraq, fixing our economy, and solving the climate crisis. Barack Obama is clearly the candidate best able to solve these problems and bring change to America.
This moment and this election are too important to let pass without taking action.
That's why I am asking you to join me in showing your support by making a contribution to this campaign today:
https://donate.barackobama.com/gore
Over the past 18 months, Barack Obama has united a movement. He knows change does not come from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue or Capitol Hill. It begins when people stand up and take action.
With the help of millions of supporters like you, Barack Obama will bring the change we so desperately need in order to solve our country's most pressing problems.
If you've already contributed to this campaign, I ask that you consider making another contribution right now. If you haven't, please take the next step and own a piece of this campaign today:
https://donate.barackobama.com/gore
On the issues that matter most, Barack Obama is clearly the right choice to lead our nation.
We have a lot of work to do in the next few months to elect Barack Obama president, and it begins by making a contribution to this campaign today.
Thank you for joining me,
Al Gore
LIVE TONIGHT -- 8:30 p.m. EDT: Watch streaming video of Al Gore and Barack Obama at a rally in Detroit, Michigan:
http://www.BarackObama.com
Paid for by Obama for America
This email was sent to: shelo441@yahoo.com
To unsubscribe, go to: http://my.barackobama.com/unsubscribe
A few hours from now I will step on stage in Detroit, Michigan to announce my support for Senator Barack Obama. From now through Election Day, I intend to do whatever I can to make sure he is elected President of the United States.
Over the next four years, we are going to face many difficult challenges -- including bringing our troops home from Iraq, fixing our economy, and solving the climate crisis. Barack Obama is clearly the candidate best able to solve these problems and bring change to America.
This moment and this election are too important to let pass without taking action.
That's why I am asking you to join me in showing your support by making a contribution to this campaign today:
https://donate.barackobama.com/gore
Over the past 18 months, Barack Obama has united a movement. He knows change does not come from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue or Capitol Hill. It begins when people stand up and take action.
With the help of millions of supporters like you, Barack Obama will bring the change we so desperately need in order to solve our country's most pressing problems.
If you've already contributed to this campaign, I ask that you consider making another contribution right now. If you haven't, please take the next step and own a piece of this campaign today:
https://donate.barackobama.com/gore
On the issues that matter most, Barack Obama is clearly the right choice to lead our nation.
We have a lot of work to do in the next few months to elect Barack Obama president, and it begins by making a contribution to this campaign today.
Thank you for joining me,
Al Gore
LIVE TONIGHT -- 8:30 p.m. EDT: Watch streaming video of Al Gore and Barack Obama at a rally in Detroit, Michigan:
http://www.BarackObama.com
Paid for by Obama for America
This email was sent to: shelo441@yahoo.com
To unsubscribe, go to: http://my.barackobama.com/unsubscribe
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Those born 1930-1979
READ TO THE BOTTOM FOR QUOTE OF THE MONTH BY JAY LENO.
IF YOU DON'T READ ANYTHING ELSE---VERY WELL STATED
TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930s, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!!
First, we survived being born to mothers who, while they were pregnant;
Took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.As infants &children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat.We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because,
WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or D VD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer! s, no Internet or chat rooms........WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.
We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!
The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law!These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!If YOU are one of them, CONGRATULATIONS!
You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good.While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!
The quote of the month is by Jay Leno:
'With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'For those that prefer to think that God is not watching over us...go ahead and delete this
.For the rest of us...pass this on.
IF YOU DON'T READ ANYTHING ELSE---VERY WELL STATED
TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930s, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!!
First, we survived being born to mothers who, while they were pregnant;
Took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.
Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.As infants &children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags.
Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat.We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle.We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because,
WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on.No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or D VD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer! s, no Internet or chat rooms........WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.
We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes.We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!
The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law!These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever!The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!If YOU are one of them, CONGRATULATIONS!
You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good.While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave (and lucky) their parents were.Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?!
The quote of the month is by Jay Leno:
'With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'For those that prefer to think that God is not watching over us...go ahead and delete this
.For the rest of us...pass this on.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
self empowerment via the arts
10, 2008
what we're working on
In preparation for the upcoming summer events, we've neglected writing a lot. For more info be sure and visit our other blog http://higherlearningnetworknfp.blogspot.com
Also, we've got lots of new shows coming this fall including the 2008 Printer's Row Book Fair, where you'll see lots of behind the scenes footage of just about everything we've filmed including but not limited to the following:
2008 Tribunes Printer's Row Book Fair
2007 Radio Personalities Conference in Miami Florida
Upcoming Interviews with
Tina Turner
Chaka Kahn
Stevie Wonder
L.L. Cool J
Comedian's George Wilbourn
Steve Harvey
Jermaine Dupri
Jill Scott
Effie Rolfe
Sundance
Bionce Foxx
Doug Banks
and so much more,
so be sure and set those Tivo's and VCR's
Sundays @ Midnight on Channel 19 and on the world wide web!
www.HigherLearningNetwork.org
www.ZeldaSpeaks.com
www.InspirationalConversations.com
be sure and pick up your copy of N'Spirational Conversations in the Weekend Edition of The Chicago Sun-Times
Monthly publication of NOIR WOMAN NEWS
Read N'Spirational Conversations by Zelda Robinson, Intl. Speaker/Author/Media Personality
Also, we've got lots of new shows coming this fall including the 2008 Printer's Row Book Fair, where you'll see lots of behind the scenes footage of just about everything we've filmed including but not limited to the following:
2008 Tribunes Printer's Row Book Fair
2007 Radio Personalities Conference in Miami Florida
Upcoming Interviews with
Tina Turner
Chaka Kahn
Stevie Wonder
L.L. Cool J
Comedian's George Wilbourn
Steve Harvey
Jermaine Dupri
Jill Scott
Effie Rolfe
Sundance
Bionce Foxx
Doug Banks
and so much more,
so be sure and set those Tivo's and VCR's
Sundays @ Midnight on Channel 19 and on the world wide web!
www.HigherLearningNetwork.org
www.ZeldaSpeaks.com
www.InspirationalConversations.com
be sure and pick up your copy of N'Spirational Conversations in the Weekend Edition of The Chicago Sun-Times
Monthly publication of NOIR WOMAN NEWS
Read N'Spirational Conversations by Zelda Robinson, Intl. Speaker/Author/Media Personality
Monday, May 12, 2008
empowerment tools
If you want to experience life on another level,
then do yourself a favor and get a copy of this book.
I promise you that you'll IMMEDIATELY begin to
see life differently. You'll begin to see that you've been
asleep for a very long time.
This book is about an awakening process.
It will show you ways in which you can begin
to live life from the inner truth of who you are,
not the label you've been given as mother, father,
sister, brother, aunt, uncle, child, worker, student,
and any other label you currently wear.
It's so good, you'll have to re-read it several times
becuase you just can't grasp the depth of it in on
reading. Oprah's read it 4 times already, I'm on my
second read, now it's your turn.
If you want something different, you gotta do something different!
Enjoy the journey!
then do yourself a favor and get a copy of this book.
I promise you that you'll IMMEDIATELY begin to
see life differently. You'll begin to see that you've been
asleep for a very long time.
This book is about an awakening process.
It will show you ways in which you can begin
to live life from the inner truth of who you are,
not the label you've been given as mother, father,
sister, brother, aunt, uncle, child, worker, student,
and any other label you currently wear.
It's so good, you'll have to re-read it several times
becuase you just can't grasp the depth of it in on
reading. Oprah's read it 4 times already, I'm on my
second read, now it's your turn.
If you want something different, you gotta do something different!
Enjoy the journey!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
self empowerment thru writing
Get that story out of your head, and into print! This was the them of our recent television taping at Can TV last week for the FREE SELF PUBLISHING SEMINAR.
It was great to see that there are still some serious folk out there who want to make a difference and get their story out of their head, onto paper, so they can get paid!''
Thanks to all the wonderful guests in the audience who made this show a success!
Looking forward to see what the rest if the classes will be like, as we make our mark on the world.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Check out the website again for details at www.HigherLearningNetwork.org or
CALL THE HOTLINE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS 312-409-6619
It was great to see that there are still some serious folk out there who want to make a difference and get their story out of their head, onto paper, so they can get paid!''
Thanks to all the wonderful guests in the audience who made this show a success!
Looking forward to see what the rest if the classes will be like, as we make our mark on the world.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Check out the website again for details at www.HigherLearningNetwork.org or
CALL THE HOTLINE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS 312-409-6619
Saturday, April 26, 2008
are you in pain?
Pain has become so acceptable in our society, and it doesn't have to be. My friend, Master Blogger, Sy Bounds, introduced me to a young man by the name of Dr. Frank.
Dr. Frank is a doctor who believes in holsitic health.
Dr. Frank believes in the power (with scientific facts to prove it) of healing thyself.
He even went so far to prove it!
I told Dr. Frank about a pain I had, and he showed me how to get the energy flowing in my body, just by pressing on certain pressure points on my hand.
It's so simple, I can do this on my own.
Wow!
Who needs prescriptions?
With the cost of pharmaceuticals at and all time high, I was simply estactic! You will be too!
You've got to show up, every Monday at the Chetwyn Rodgers Development Center, Madison and Cicero (google it for exact address) and watch him work!
In the meantime, visit his blog and TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW!
You don't have to get a prescription for all your aches and pains.
Take the time and do some WORK ON SELF. GET TO KNOW YOUR BODY and yourself by learning to heal yourself with your hands.
It's an ancient art, scientifically proven.
For those who don't believe, oh well!
Proof is in the healing hand.
Visit his blog and be blessed!
http://womenandchildren1st.blogspot.com
Dr. Frank is a doctor who believes in holsitic health.
Dr. Frank believes in the power (with scientific facts to prove it) of healing thyself.
He even went so far to prove it!
I told Dr. Frank about a pain I had, and he showed me how to get the energy flowing in my body, just by pressing on certain pressure points on my hand.
It's so simple, I can do this on my own.
Wow!
Who needs prescriptions?
With the cost of pharmaceuticals at and all time high, I was simply estactic! You will be too!
You've got to show up, every Monday at the Chetwyn Rodgers Development Center, Madison and Cicero (google it for exact address) and watch him work!
In the meantime, visit his blog and TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW!
You don't have to get a prescription for all your aches and pains.
Take the time and do some WORK ON SELF. GET TO KNOW YOUR BODY and yourself by learning to heal yourself with your hands.
It's an ancient art, scientifically proven.
For those who don't believe, oh well!
Proof is in the healing hand.
Visit his blog and be blessed!
http://womenandchildren1st.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
from the movie FILM MAKER OF SICKO
from film maker michael moore
My Vote's for Obama (if I could vote) ...by Michael Moore
Friends,
I don't get to vote for President this primary season. I live in Michigan. The party leaders (both here and in D.C.) couldn't get their act together, and thus our votes will not be counted.
So, if you live in Pennsylvania, can you do me a favor? Will you please cast my vote -- and yours -- on Tuesday for Senator Barack Obama?
I haven't spoken publicly 'til now as to who I would vote for, primarily for two reasons: 1) Who cares?; and 2) I (and most people I know) don't give a rat's ass whose name is on the ballot in November, as long as there's a picture of JFK and FDR riding a donkey at the top of the ballot, and the word "Democratic" next to the candidate's name.
Seriously, I know so many people who don't care if the name under the Big "D" is Dancer, Prancer, Clinton or Blitzen. It can be Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Barry Obama or the Dalai Lama.
Well, that sounded good last year, but over the past two months, the actions and words of Hillary Clinton have gone from being merely disappointing to downright disgusting. I guess the debate last week was the final straw. I've watched Senator Clinton and her husband play this game of appealing to the worst side of white people, but last Wednesday, when she hurled the name "Farrakhan" out of nowhere, well that's when the silly season came to an early end for me. She said the "F" word to scare white people, pure and simple. Of course, Obama has no connection to Farrakhan. But, according to Senator Clinton, Obama's pastor does -- AND the "church bulletin" once included a Los Angeles Times op-ed from some guy with Hamas! No, not the church bulletin!
This sleazy attempt to smear Obama was brilliantly explained the following night by Stephen Colbert. He pointed out that if Obama is supported by Ted Kennedy, who is Catholic, and the Catholic Church is led by a Pope who was in the Hitler Youth, that can mean only one thing: OBAMA LOVES HITLER!
Yes, Senator Clinton, that's how you sounded. Like you were nuts. Like you were a bigot stoking the fires of stupidity. How sad that I would ever have to write those words about you. You have devoted your life to good causes and good deeds. And now to throw it all away for an office you can't win unless you smear the black man so much that the superdelegates cry "Uncle (Tom)" and give it all to you.
But that can't happen. You cast your die when you voted to start this bloody war. When you did that you were like Moses who lost it for a moment and, because of that, was prohibited from entering the Promised Land.
How sad for a country that wanted to see the first woman elected to the White House. That day will come -- but it won't be you. We'll have to wait for the current Democratic governor of Kansas to run in 2016 (you read it here first!).
There are those who say Obama isn't ready, or he's voted wrong on this or that. But that's looking at the trees and not the forest. What we are witnessing is not just a candidate but a profound, massive public movement for change. My endorsement is more for Obama The Movement than it is for Obama the candidate.
That is not to take anything away from this exceptional man. But what's going on is bigger than him at this point, and that's a good thing for the country. Because, when he wins in November, that Obama Movement is going to have to stay alert and active. Corporate America is not going to give up their hold on our government just because we say so. President Obama is going to need a nation of millions to stand behind him.
I know some of you will say, 'Mike, what have the Democrats done to deserve our vote?' That's a damn good question. In November of '06, the country loudly sent a message that we wanted the war to end. Yet the Democrats have done nothing. So why should we be so eager to line up happily behind them?
I'll tell you why. Because I can't stand one more friggin' minute of this administration and the permanent, irreversible damage it has done to our people and to this world. I'm almost at the point where I don't care if the Democrats don't have a backbone or a kneebone or a thought in their dizzy little heads. Just as long as their name ain't "Bush" and the word "Republican" is not beside theirs on the ballot, then that's good enough for me.
I, like the majority of Americans, have been pummeled senseless for 8 long years. That's why I will join millions of citizens and stagger into the voting booth come November, like a boxer in the 12th round, all bloodied and bruised with one eye swollen shut, looking for the only thing that matters -- that big "D" on the ballot.
Don't get me wrong. I lost my rose-colored glasses a long time ago.
It's foolish to see the Democrats as anything but a nicer version of a party that exists to do the bidding of the corporate elite in this country. Any endorsement of a Democrat must be done with this acknowledgement and a hope that one day we will have a party that'll represent the people first, and laws that allow that party an equal voice.
Finally, I want to say a word about the basic decency I have seen in Mr. Obama. Mrs. Clinton continues to throw the Rev. Wright up in his face as part of her mission to keep stoking the fears of White America. Every time she does this I shout at the TV, "Say it, Obama! Say that when she and her husband were having marital difficulties regarding Monica Lewinsky, who did she and Bill bring to the White House for 'spiritual counseling?' THE REVEREND JEREMIAH WRIGHT!"
But no, Obama won't throw that at her. It wouldn't be right. It wouldn't be decent. She's been through enough hurt. And so he remains silent and takes the mud she throws in his face.
That's why the crowds who come to see him are so large. That's why he'll take us down a more decent path. That's why I would vote for him if Michigan were allowed to have an election.
But the question I keep hearing is... 'can he win? Can he win in November?' In the distance we hear the siren of the death train called the Straight Talk Express. We know it's possible to hear the words "President McCain" on January 20th. We know there are still many Americans who will never vote for a black man. Hillary knows it, too. She's counting on it.
Pennsylvania, the state that gave birth to this great country, has a chance to set things right. It has not had a moment to shine like this since 1787 when our Constitution was written there. In that Constitution, they wrote that a black man or woman was only "three fifths" human. On Tuesday, the good people of Pennsylvania have a chance for redemption.
Yours,
Michael Moore
MichaelMoore.com
MMFlint@aol.com
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
the holy alphabet
from Yolanda Jackson:
Whoever came up with this one must have had some divine guidance, I think I need to review this daily!!! Have a great day!
Although things are not perfect Because of trial or pain Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able Hold on to what you know Imagine life without
His love Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things Love imparts to thee
Move out of "Camp Complaining"
No weapon that is known On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship To "thank" is a command
Until we see Him coming Victorious in the sky
We'll run the race with gratitude X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad,
but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!
"I AM Too blessed to be stressed!"
The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance
between your knees and the floor. T
he one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything.
Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.
Much Love ~YoBe Blessed and Be A Blessing To Others
www.yolandajackson.bravehost.com
"Life is Like a Deck of Cards -You don’t deal with the hand that you were dealt, it's all in how you Play with the hand you were dealt. Optimal words “Deal” and “Play”. If you deal with it, you may never win, never overcome, never achieve higher levels. But if you play, you will lose some, you will win some, therefore you become a Player of life and not live a life whereby you are Played" - Written By, Yours Truly :-)
Whoever came up with this one must have had some divine guidance, I think I need to review this daily!!! Have a great day!
Although things are not perfect Because of trial or pain Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able Hold on to what you know Imagine life without
His love Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things Love imparts to thee
Move out of "Camp Complaining"
No weapon that is known On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship To "thank" is a command
Until we see Him coming Victorious in the sky
We'll run the race with gratitude X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad,
but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!
"I AM Too blessed to be stressed!"
The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance
between your knees and the floor. T
he one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything.
Love and peace be with you forever, Amen.
Much Love ~YoBe Blessed and Be A Blessing To Others
www.yolandajackson.bravehost.com
"Life is Like a Deck of Cards -You don’t deal with the hand that you were dealt, it's all in how you Play with the hand you were dealt. Optimal words “Deal” and “Play”. If you deal with it, you may never win, never overcome, never achieve higher levels. But if you play, you will lose some, you will win some, therefore you become a Player of life and not live a life whereby you are Played" - Written By, Yours Truly :-)
Sunday, March 23, 2008
camp for girls
It's FREE and they provide breakfast and lunch for the participants.
Applications are due May 30, 2008 acceptance will be announced by June 13, 2008.
Eligible applicants for the metro area camp would be in grades 10-12.
There is a URL at the end of this page that allows you to view scenes from previous camps and videos created by participants promoting the camps. This will be a great opportunity for our young ladies. Microsoft is once again requesting our assistance in getting young women to apply for their DigiGirlz Summer Camps. Camps will be held this year in the following eight locations: Charlotte , NC Chicago , ILL Fargo , ND Irvine , CA Las Colinas , TX Redmond , WA (corporate) Stony Brook , NY Washington , DC We are now accepting applications to Microsoft̢۪s DigiGirlz High Tech Camps. We are requesting your assistance in promoting this learning opportunity for high school girls.
The camp was developed to provide girls with a better understanding of what a career in technology is all about. This exciting three to five day experience provides opportunities to learn about careers in technology, talk with Microsoft employees about their life experiences, and enjoy hands-on computer and technology workshops.
What Participants Can Expect ·
Hands-on learning sessions to educate ·
Keynote Speaker series to inspire ·
Career/technology tours to heighten awareness ·
Resume and interview workshops to prepare ·
Employee panels to answer questions
Testimonials Here is what some DigiGirlz had to say about their experiences at the camp:
[The event was] very empowering and I know that I can accomplish anything! "It definitely had a positive impact on me. It got me inspired to get involved and really gave me confidence to live out my dreams. It gave me great ideas and I am so excited to continue on!"
Even in the short time I was at Microsoft I learned so much about technology, but more about how people can achieve professions that they love and enjoy. Everyone's enthusiasm about their professions inspired me to find what I love and pursue it -- not only in technology, but in life."
"I am now much, much more interested in technology-related careers. They are so much fun." Application Details To apply, girls need to complete the online application form which is available at: https://www .microsoft.com/about/diversity/programs/camps.mspx
In addition to providing contact information, the girls will be asked to answer two essay questions. After being selected into the program, they will receive a packet of information with additional forms for completion. They will also be asked to submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor. The documents must be completed and returned in order to be fully registered for the camp. Girls must currently be in 9thâ€"12th grade to be eligible.
This camp is free of charge to participants. Visit https://www.microsoft.com/about/diversity/programs/camps.mspx for more information .
Applications are due May 30, 2008 acceptance will be announced by June 13, 2008.
Eligible applicants for the metro area camp would be in grades 10-12.
There is a URL at the end of this page that allows you to view scenes from previous camps and videos created by participants promoting the camps. This will be a great opportunity for our young ladies. Microsoft is once again requesting our assistance in getting young women to apply for their DigiGirlz Summer Camps. Camps will be held this year in the following eight locations: Charlotte , NC Chicago , ILL Fargo , ND Irvine , CA Las Colinas , TX Redmond , WA (corporate) Stony Brook , NY Washington , DC We are now accepting applications to Microsoft̢۪s DigiGirlz High Tech Camps. We are requesting your assistance in promoting this learning opportunity for high school girls.
The camp was developed to provide girls with a better understanding of what a career in technology is all about. This exciting three to five day experience provides opportunities to learn about careers in technology, talk with Microsoft employees about their life experiences, and enjoy hands-on computer and technology workshops.
What Participants Can Expect ·
Hands-on learning sessions to educate ·
Keynote Speaker series to inspire ·
Career/technology tours to heighten awareness ·
Resume and interview workshops to prepare ·
Employee panels to answer questions
Testimonials Here is what some DigiGirlz had to say about their experiences at the camp:
[The event was] very empowering and I know that I can accomplish anything! "It definitely had a positive impact on me. It got me inspired to get involved and really gave me confidence to live out my dreams. It gave me great ideas and I am so excited to continue on!"
Even in the short time I was at Microsoft I learned so much about technology, but more about how people can achieve professions that they love and enjoy. Everyone's enthusiasm about their professions inspired me to find what I love and pursue it -- not only in technology, but in life."
"I am now much, much more interested in technology-related careers. They are so much fun." Application Details To apply, girls need to complete the online application form which is available at: https://www .microsoft.com/about/diversity/programs/camps.mspx
In addition to providing contact information, the girls will be asked to answer two essay questions. After being selected into the program, they will receive a packet of information with additional forms for completion. They will also be asked to submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor. The documents must be completed and returned in order to be fully registered for the camp. Girls must currently be in 9thâ€"12th grade to be eligible.
This camp is free of charge to participants. Visit https://www.microsoft.com/about/diversity/programs/camps.mspx for more information .
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