To NOT kill a Mockingbird

Sleep problems stem from many different reasons.  I have more than one but the most interesting is called Mockingbird Syndrome.  Okay, that's not a real issue.  I made it up.  However, it can cause real health concerns for those of us who are already sleep deprived and this tiny creature adds to the problem.  How can a bird hamper a human's sleep process?  It sings!  No, no... not the ones who sing at daybreak.  This lovely little devil sings at night.  All night!!!  It has many different calls and it shares it's large repertoire usually beginning at 2:00 a.m.  Occasionally,  some have begun earlier.  And when they tag-team and one repeats the other's call, it's double trouble.  Did I tell you that it sings all night?  Well, it's worth repeating.  Granted, the calls are varied, interesting and cute, at first.  The next night, it's annoying.  By the end of the week, it's so irritating, you're tempted to go find the bird, grab it by it's tiny little throat, squeeze hard and break the beak just to make sure it can't sing anymore.  Then, reality sets in... it's late and dark (really dark) and the mockingbird is not the only creature that thrives at that hour in the deep, deep darkness.  The eight-legged freaks are out there, too.  So, you can't go find the bird, grab it by it's tiny little throat, squeeze hard and break the beak just to make sure it can't sing anymore.  Instead, you turn up the volume on your T.V. a bit and  put the pillow over your head and pray that the bird moves on to a tree outside of someone else's bedroom window.  Heck, the damn tree isn't even in my yard.  It's the neighbor's tree. At 2:00 a.m., it may as well be my tree because that singing bird is my problem.  Some nights, I watch the sun come up because so does the bird, singing all the while.  Mockingbirds are protected by law, hence the title of this post, "To NOT kill a Mockingbird." Besides, I like birds.  They come in so many pretty colors and have such varied looks and they can fly!  But, I don't want one singing incessantly outside my window at 2:00 a.m.  It even has a call that is reminiscent of someone screaming, car alarms, and all sorts of what nots. Here's a Youtube video to help you understand what I'm ranting about if you've never experienced it yourself.  This bird's sleep schedule has to be upside down.  Birds are supposed to delight us with their melodious voices in the freaking daytime! Ahhhh, if only I had wings to fly myself somewhere else until the bird shut up.  Until then, I'll work on getting to sleep before he or she gets to singing.  Wish me luck!

Mo'Nique featured Sunday's Best... Y'anna Crawley

I had seen a few previews of the BET Gospel competition called Sunday Best but I have never watched it.  Thanks to Friday night's episode of The Mo'Nique Show, I was able to witness the sensational Sunday Best season two winner, Y'anna Crawley.  Believe me when I tell you, this woman SANG!!  She reminds me of the one of my all time favorites, Aretha Franklin.  Y'anna also sang Heaven with Tina Campbell of MaryMary. I couldn't find a video post of Y'anna's Mo'Nique Show performance but this one is just as If you've already seen her perform, you know what I'm talking about.  If not, I'm sure you'll enjoy it as much as I did.  Take a listen!




 

"A Night of Star Studded Soul" Featuring Morris Day and The Time and En Vogue

The South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus' Annual Gala will be held on May 1, 2010.  Guests will be treated to "A Night of Star Studded Soul" with a concert sure to delight fans of old school R&B.  Morris Day and The Time will perform signature songs like What Time Is It?, The Bird, Cool, Gigolos Get Lonely Too, 777-9311, Fishnet, The Walk and Jungle Love.  One of my personal favorites is "Don't Wait For Me" so, I'm hoping to hear it.

The Funky Divas themselves, En Vogue, will be on hand to thrill the audience with their exquisite voices.  They are one of the most vocally talented girl groups ever!  Their string of hits include Hold On, Don't Go, Give It Up Turn It Loose, Lies, Don't Let Go (Love), Giving Him Something He Can Feel and Yesterday.

Aaron Hall, formerly Guy, is coming to serenade the ladies with sultry tunes such as I Miss You, Don't Be Afraid and When You Need Me.


Jazz guitarist Terence Young, who performed at last year's gala, returns by popular demand to allow the folks to Experience his Healing for the Soul.  Terence is simply genius with a guitar.

Don't Get It Twisted because high spirited performer Pressha of  Splackavellie fame will be there to host and entertain like only he can.  He kept the audience engaged and on its feet at the 2009 gala.

A reception will be held prior to the concert and the event takes place at the Carolina Coliseum on Saturday, May 1, 2010.  Tickets are available online 24 hours a day or by phone, 803.251.2222, between the hours of 9:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For additional information, please contact The South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus at 803.734.3041 or www.sclbc.org.

See you there!

Girlfriends' Get Together: Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married Too?"

This weekend, April 2, 2010, groups of women will be getting together for a bite to eat and to view Tyler Perry's latest movie, Why Did I Get Married Too. Of course, the men will be going out to ride the emotional roller coaster Perry creates in this film because they enjoy his work as well. However, the theater is generally filled with women who are there with their sisters, mothers, daughters and even grandmothers who don't mind talking to the characters on screen as if they can hear them. And they clap for scenes that really strike a chord with them. To be sure, a good time is had by all... so much so that the audience remains seated to watch the outtakes. If you have not seen Why Did I Get Married?, you have time to watch it before the sequel hits the theaters this weekend. You'll love it as much as the rest of us did. Really.



The movie features Janet Jackson, Malik Yoba, Tasha Smith, Jill Scott, Sharon Leal, Lamman Rucker, Richard T. Jones,Michael J. White, Cicely Tyson, Louis Gossett Jr., and Tyler Perry.

Writers, there's still time to enter the NPR Fiction contest!

Visit NPR for more details. Happy writing!

Andre Pitre

I just saw this fine brother, Andre Pitre, on The Mo'Nique Show on BET. The "Southern Gentleman" says he's single ladies. Mo knows that chocolate this smooth and delicious will keep the sisters coming back for another bite. Yeah. Check out the video for his debut single, Your Name.

Tiger's ready to roar. Does anyone care?

After many weeks of silence and hiding out, golfer extraordinaire Tiger Woods is ready to speak publicly about his infamous love life. Does anyone really care to hear what he has to say?

According to reports, Woods will be apologizing publicly before a small group that will include family, friends, and select media outlets. My opinion about his extra marital affairs is the same as it was about all the other high profile figures who have spoken publicly about such issues... that's between the golfer and his wife. As far as this member of the public is concerned, Elin has to deal with it in whatever way she chooses. The public is not married to Tiger and his dalliances with other women have no bearing on us.

Some may pose the following question. What about the fact that he pretended to have such a squeaky clean image in public while secretly serving it up to woman after woman for years? Don't put public figures on pedestals. Whether they are Hollywood celebrities, sports stand-outs, or political powerhouses, they are simply human just like the rest of us. Yes, they managed to take a talent and parlay it into a lucrative career that garnered them lots of attention, but at the end of the day they are just people.

Everyone knows some guy or other who has had countless women in and out of his bed. Most likely, he had affairs for a long time before the wife found out about his philandering. It's the same with Tiger with the exception that he was able to keep it under cover a lot more easily because he had the financial means to buy discretion and silence. If he had taken a different route and provided the mistress who spoke up with the money she requested, it's likely that his play house would still be standing.

So, what have we learned from Tiger's story? Cheaters... sometimes you have to pay to continue to play. However, the dirt you've done in the dark will eventually find daylight. Fans... don't be a fanatic because the celebrities you admire are just like you but luckier.

By the way, if you are interested in hearing the Tiger roar, tune in to his press conference on Friday, February 19th at 11:00 a.m. Although Mr. Woods' skills are very impressive, this member of the public is not a fan of golf or its players and therefore, was never disappointed by the fact that he turned out to be a mere man after all.

Happy New Year!

Greetings! The new year has arrived, closing the door on a very turbulent 2009. Last year brought us quite a bit to contend with... horrific natural disasters, terrorist attacks, economic chaos and instability, unthinkable crimes like senseless murders of young children, record unemployment and even the shocking death of one of music's most celebrated icons. That was last year.

Today is the beginning of a new year, indeed, a new decade. Many of us have made resolutions whether we fully intend to keep them or not. Some have not the hope needed to inspire them to attempt to embrace a new resolve. The country continues to struggle to make it's way out of the pit created over the previous 8 years and worsened during the past year, depending upon which side of the story you believe.

Personally, I have not made any resolutions for 2010. Unfortunately, I must admit that I'm one of those people who forget all about the promise I made to myself if I haven't accomplished it within 2 or 3 months. However, I do have hope. Hope for a better year, a better life and a better country. I hope that the politicians who say to us what we want to hear while they are begging for our votes abandon the political rivalries and personal agendas in favor of doing what is best for the people whom they have promised to serve and assist. I hope that those who are suffering the most because of job loss, being homeless, fighting a catastrophic or chronic illness (which is often times the same thing), fighting a relentless enemy overseas while on a 3rd deployment in a war that seems to have no end, or have some other struggle that is overwhelming, find some semblance of peace, happiness and prosperity. I hope for the best for everyone.

Did you make a resolution this year? What do you hope for in 2010? How will you make it happen?

You don't have to have all the answers right now. You do need faith and perseverance. Hold on to your dreams and work on making them come true often and relentlessly. It may take a little longer than you would like for that dream to come to fruition, but if you give up, it never will.

Let me tell you a short story. My mother decided that she was going to grow an apple tree from seeds from an apple from the grocery store. I didn't think she could grow an apple tree from seeds in the dry, dusty yard devoid of rich soil. She planted the seeds and watered them faithfully. Sure enough, a tree began to grow. I was probably in my early teens at the time. I grew older as did the tree. Once it was full grown, we waited to see if it would bear fruit. I moved away, joined the Army, and came home to find that the tree still had no fruit. Still, Mom tended the tree as if it yielded fruit enough to make her proud. Though I can't tell you when it finally happened, that tree has been full of small green apples every year now for some time right there in the same soil that seemed so non-conducive to such a task. My mother made her little dream of growing her own apple tree come true by fertilizing and watering it and never giving up on it. She has a peach tree beside the apple tree now that she grew in the same manner.

If you've planted a seed for something good and worthwhile, I hope and pray that it grows and bears fruit. Let's make 2010 the year our dreams bear fruit due to our continued cultivation of them. May peace, joy, and prosperity be yours in over abundance! Be blessed.

P.S. Check out Star Jones' 2010 Resolution Handbook on her blog. I like it.

Christmas Greetings

Merry Christmas to you and yours! May the spirit and magic of the holiday season bring you abundant joy, love, peace and blessings!!! XOXO










Grey's Anatomy fans... this one's especially for you.
Sara Ramirez sings Silent Night

Author Karen E. Quinones Miller on self-publishing

Best-selling author Karen E. Quinones Miller began her writing career as a self-published author before the major publishing houses came looking for her. In the video posted below, she shares her story and her take on self-publishing.



If you live in the Philadelphia area, she will be giving a seminar on Publishing/Self-publishing on November 14, 2009. For additional information, please visit Ms. Miller's website.

On the air with Pam Osbey - Giving a voice to domestic violence

October is the month that the spotlight is placed on domestic violence. Pam Osbey, author and host of Literary Pizzazz on Blog Talk Radio, is not only holding the spotlight on October 28th, she is giving a voice to victims of domestic violence who otherwise would not be heard. Restoration, Renewal and Overcoming Domestic Violence is a two hour broadcast that Pam has put together to give a virtual hug to those who have found a way out of their situations and to encourage those who are still searching for a path to safety.

During the show, authors Almari Jonson, Felicia Madlock, Heidi West, GPA and Quietstorm will share poetry and prose. Touching Heart founder, Brooks J. Young, will give information on the resources available to women and children in need of a safe haven. Listeners can join in the discussion to share their own stories or read their poetry during the open mic portion of the program.

Domestic violence is unacceptable but it will never end until all victims become past victims and abusers are rendered powerless. You do not have to be a victim to help raise awareness. Please tune in at 9:00 p.m. EST! I'll meet you there!!

About the host:

Pam Osbey is a graduate of Grambling State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English. She has published several books, including Musings of a Mocha Sistah, Black Orchids, and Rivers of My Life, and her work has been featured in various literary magazines.

RHOA's Kandi Burruss on Love B. Scott

The Real Housewives of Atlanta aired the final show of season two on Thursday night. Now fans are looking forward the reunion show. In the meantime, I thought you might like to watch Kandi Burruss being interviewed by B. Scott of the Love B. Scott show. Kandi has become the new fan favorite on RHOA. If you're wondering why, just watch the two-part interview and you'll understand. Be blessed!

A War for Your Soul by Reggie Bullock

A War For Your Soul-regular version from Erisai Films on Vimeo.

Tim Wise on White Privilege

I heard about this via a Facebook post by a writer named Jeremy Williams a.k.a. Push Nevahda.

From the DVD:

The Pathology of Privilege
Racism, White Denial & the Costs of Inequality

For years, acclaimed author and speaker Tim Wise has been electrifying audiences on the college lecture circuit with his deeply personal take on whiteness and white privilege. In this spellbinding lecture, the author of White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son offers a unique, inside-out view of race and racism in America. Expertly overcoming the defensiveness that often surrounds these issues, Wise provides a non-confrontational explanation of white privilege and the damage it does not only to people of color, but to white people as well. This is an invaluable classroom resource: an ideal introduction to the social construction of racial identities, and a critical new tool for exploring the often invoked - but seldom explained - concept of white privilege.

Find more information and video clips on Youtube posted by ChallengingMedia or at MediaEd.org.

Chicago, where is your village?

Chicago honor student Derrion Albert was laid to rest on Saturday. More than a thousand mourners attended the service at the Greater Mount Hebron Baptist Church on the South Side of the city. The 16-year-old was struck in the head with a two-by-four, kicked and brutally beaten on his way home from school on September 24th. Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Rev. Jesse Jackson spoke at Derrion's funeral and urged Chicago's youth to refrain from any further violence.

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder and Education Secretary Arne Duncan will travel to Chicago to speak with school officials, students and the community about the pervasive violence that has been plaguing the Chicago area for some time. Dozens of students have been victims of violence ending in their deaths. The Chicago Tribune has posted a photo gallery of some of the students.

I first heard of the problem with the rise in Chicago area minority student murders on CNN months ago. Like everyone else, I was deeply saddened to see the disturbing video footage of young Derrion Albert being viciously attacked. Amongst a myriad of other questions that raced through my head were these two: Where were the police at that moment? and Why didn't anyone step in to rescue this young man? Later, I wondered what was wrong with the students who carried out such an insidious attack. What angered them so much? What type of parents raise children like these?

In addition to those questions, I have a few more. Why were three of Chicago's most famous citizens (well, two are former citizens) traveling abroad to speak to the Olympic committee when their influence was needed more right at home on the South Side of Chicago. I think it's a good thing that President Obama is sending Mr. Holder and Mr. Duncan to Chicago in a few days but I fail to understand why he cannot give these students his much needed attention just as he did the Olympic committee. President Obama, if ever any part of the country could use a variation of your "Yes we can" speech, it's the students at Fenger High School... Yes, we can stop the violence. Yes, we can learn alternative, peaceful ways to solve our differences. Yes, we can co-exist even though we hail from different neighborhoods. Yes, we can find more constructive ways to express what we're feeling like in a positive rap song, a poem addressing our hopes and potentials, or a prayer for a brighter future. Yes, we can embrace and support each other. Yes, we can survive high school and become successful, upstanding, prosperous adults. Yes, we can!

Will the First Lady, Michelle Obama, spend time at this school speaking with these students? She has visited a school in Washington, DC. Of course, she is number two of the three famous Chicago citizens I mentioned earlier. Mrs. Obama, I believe these students are older than the group you spoke with in DC, but I also believe that your influence on them could be just as profound. They would probably love to hear you speak, shake your hand, receive a hug, or have a photo taken with you. Bringing a message of peace, hope, and security through the cessation of violence to the lives of these students is so much more important than any speech you delivered to the Olympic committee. Who better to deliver this speech to minority children than an African American woman who grew up in Chicago, thrived and excelled in school, became an ivy league educated attorney and now resides in the White House with her husband who runs the country? Well, perhaps there is someone.

Oprah, I watch your show often, though not daily. If you've ever presented a show on the violent and unnecessary deaths of students on Chicago's South Side, I missed it. This is happening in Harpo Studio's backyard. You are one of the most influential people in the world. How many times have you visited Fenger High School to encourage the students? Kudos to you for building a school in Africa! Could you possibly just adopt this one and help them through this infinitely distressing period? Do what you've done so many times before... assemble a team of experts to counsel, coach and empower. This time, let those being encouraged, uplifted and empowered be these children. Use your voice to rally the community and viewers to do whatever they can to help facilitate an end to the violence there. Call on some of your superstar friends to throw a benefit concert or auction some items to raise money to help heal whatever it is that ails Chicago's South Side youth.

It would be foolish of me to voice my dissatisfaction of Chicago's dream team without addressing the two most important groups of people at the core of the situation. Of course, that would be the parents and the students themselves.

As a parent, I know how difficult it is to raise a child, especially in this economic downturn. However, parents, you have to take an active role in the lives of your children. They did not ask to be born and they are not capable of raising themselves, no matter how much attitude they have at times. As in any relationship, communication is the key. Talk to your children every day, several times a day, so that you will know what's happening with them. Allow them to talk to you about the things that are important to them. Children know when you're not paying attention to them and they feel hurt by that. If you make your children feel important, no gang could use that old selling point of being their family to lure them into the gang culture. Hug your kids and tell them how much you love them and how proud you are of them. They will want to be successful to get another glimpse of the pride their parents have in them. If you are beating your children, even as a disciplinary measure, please stop. Find an alternative method to deal with your child when there is a problem. When your child makes a mistake or misbehaves do not respond with violence. Use that moment to teach him or her that violence is not the way to resolve a dispute. Be a parent instead of a tyrant. Also, this is not the time to try to be your child's friend. There will be plenty of time for that when they have made it to adulthood and are out on their own.

As for the students who are participating in these unspeakable acts, you have to take responsibility for your actions. You may think that you don't care and that you can handle the consequences, but there will be someone who's badder than you think you that you are once you're behind bars. Research the statistics on the likelihood that you will become the victim once the prison doors slam shut and you're a resident. Put yourself in Derrion Albert's place. Would you want to die such a horrible death for no reason other than you were on your way home from school? No one wants that for you. You should not want it for yourselves. Believe in yourselves. Respect yourselves. Love yourselves. You are worthy of a better life but you have to seek it out. You can start by leaving the violence behind. This young man's life meant something to his family and friends. The rest of the world never heard of him until his death. Now that we have learned a little about him, we want his death to mean even more. Let it be a turning point for you. Let it be a lesson for you. Let it be a light that leads you in a different direction. Let it lead you to peace, hope, love and most of all to a future.

We all have heard the saying, "it takes a village to raise a child." Chicago, where is your village? If you live in the vicinity and you can assist parents who need help with children who are headed down the wrong path, please volunteer your time and assistance. Step into the life of a child in need of positive guidance before the wrong type of influence becomes appealing and irresistible. Become a mentor. Start a homework group to keep the children agreeably occupied until their parents get home from work. If you are a writer, a poet, a musician, or an artist, teach an after school class and pass on your skills. You might inspire the next Toni Morrison, the next Maya Angelou or Nikki Giovanni, the next Mozart, or the next Picasso. Even if you simply give a child a skill that he or she can use in the future to make an honest, decent living, that's okay, too. By helping these children, you will be helping to restore the community at large. It's your village, Chicago. Isn't it worth saving? Look at the faces of the children who have been murdered before you answer that question. I believe that you will agree that the answer is most assuredly "Yes!"

Kandi Buruss' Ex-fiance', "AJ", killed outside of club

Ashley "AJ" Jewell was beaten to death outside of an Atlanta strip club on Friday night. Jewell was engaged to Real Housewives of Atlanta cast member Kandi Burruss. They ended the engagement in August.





According to reports, Fredrick Richardson was charged with voluntary manslaughter in Jewell's death.

Prayers, peace and blessings to A.J.'s family (especially his children) and Kandi Burruss.

Back in the Dae... Paperboy doin' Ditty

1993's one-hit wonder & top ten biggest-hit "Ditty" by Paperboy. This is how it's tagged by Beatamy on Youtube. One-hit wonder... Whateva! It still makes you move!

Hey, Wendy, isn't Mt. Vernon in your vicinity? Have him on your show, Big Wen! Thought I'd post the original music below just for fun. Don't blame me if your supervisor catches you dancing.

Roger & Zapp - Doo Wa Ditty 1983

Jonathan McCoy on the "N" word

Catching up with Kimberla Lawson Roby

Award winning writer and New York Times bestseller Kimberla Lawson Roby's latest book is about to hit the shelves. Roby fans can pick up A Deep Dark Secret on Tuesday, September 29th at their favorite bookstore. Although the title alone screams of a ceaseless intrigue sure to lock readers into a literary prison until the very last page is read, the synopsis below will have Roby's fans clamoring to add this one to their collection! If you have a Kindle, she's got you covered. The book is available in the electronic format as well.


A DEEP DARK SECRET

On the outside, twelve-year-old Jillian Maxwell is the perfect child. She’s helpful with chores around the house, gets straight As in school, has plans for college, and stays out of trouble. She seems to have everything a girl could want: a big, beautiful new home, a mother who adores her, and an attentive stepfather. But inside, Jillian harbors a terrible secret.

Terrified to tell, convinced that her friends and loved ones, especially her mother, won’t understand—and worse, will blame her—Jillian endures her pain in silence, believing she’s got everything under control. But as time passes, the bright, hardworking girl transforms into a sullen, disinterested student with failing grades. But just when it seems she's on the verge of losing everything, Jillian discovers she has more strength than she ever imagined . . . and the power to save herself and her family.


THE BEST OF EVERYTHING is on sale nationwide!
A DEEP DARK SECRET (coming Tuesday, September 29, 2009)

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU PRAY FOR (coming Tuesday, January 19, 2010)


If you'd like to sign up for Kim's newsletters, please do so at www.kimroby.com.


To join Kim's fan page on Facebook, please click on the following link: Join Kimberla's Fan Page on Facebook

Racism: Does your silence give consent?

Rick Sanchez reported on his CNN show that Cracker Barrel issued a statement saying that the restaurant chain has banned Troy Dale West, Jr., from dining in any of its facilities nationwide. Rick had a great question... how do they plan to enforce the ban? Hmm...

For those of you who might have missed the story -- and that would be easy to do since CNN seems to be the only news outlet willing to give the story any airtime-- West, who is white, is accused of attacking a black woman at a Cracker Barrel in Morrow, Georgia, while many white onlookers did just that. They looked. At least one white male witness is remembered by the victim to have been smiling while she was being viciously attacked as her 7 year-old daughter watched in fear and horror. The child was still visibly shaken and crying when police arrived on the scene.

Army reservist Tashawnea Hill spoke with Sanchez in the CNN studio on Wednesday, September 17, 2009 and recounted the ugly incident with her attorney present. According to Hill, she simply informed West that he had almost hit her daughter with the door and asked him to be more careful. West allegedly went into an immediate tirade in which he struck Hill several times with a closed fist, knocking her to the ground. After Hill fell to the ground, he kicked her repeatedly. West spewed racially charged remarks during the entire ordeal. Eventually, two women (one white and one black) spoke up on Hill's behalf. The FBI has decided to investigate the incident as a hate crime. The victim and witnesses said that West repeatedly called Hill a "nigger b!#ch" while brutally beating her.



If nothing else, this horrific attack should rip off the blinders of all of the naive citizens trying to deny the fact that racism is alive, well, kicking high and still wreaking havoc in America in 2009. Wake up, people! While this country has traveled a long distance on the path to racial equality and harmony, we are not even close to achieving it. There are many who have changed their views and ways but there are still those who work tirelessly to grow the numbers of those who stand in the shadow of hatred with them in order to continue to permeate our society with their bigotry and their vile racist views. Indeed, there are those who would see African Americans back in the chains of slavery or at the very least, riding at the back of the bus again and stripped of the measure of freedom that has been earned by the unprecedented efforts and sacrifices of warriors of the fight for freedom, justice and equality like Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the King famiy, the Kennedy family and so many others throughout history. There are those who would have that shameful, dark, and despicable portion of America's history repeated if they were able to bring it about. However, I believe that there are more of us who believe in freedom for all, in equality for all, and in justice for all. We must stand up against attacks of racism in any and all forms. We cannot sit silently or allow our voices to be quelled because the racist and bigots will win. They will not win because they are the majority. They will not win because they yell the loudest. They certainly will not win because they are correct in their misguided beliefs. They will win because we who know that they are the minority, who know that they cannot yell louder than all of our voices speaking against them in unity, and who know that they are absolutely wrong in their beliefs do nothing.

Let's do something, people. Vote for elected officials who do not embrace the notions of those who would see our country racially divided forever. If you are unable to donate to their campaigns, volunteer your time to assist them in getting elected. Speak up or at least dial 911 for help if warranted when you witness someone being attacked due to race, creed, color, sexual orientation or any other prejudice. Call or email the other television news stations to ask why they have not covered this important story. Do something. My mother always said, "Silence gives consent." We may as well voice agreement to such atrocities if we say or do nothing to curtail them.

STORY: Sisters Tell Others and Revive Yourself

The incidence of breast cancer has a higher occurrence in white women but twice as many black women die from the illness. STORY (Sisters Tell Others and Revive Yourself) is a breast cancer study being conducted by Palmetto Health in South Carolina aimed at discovering whether a telephone support group would be more effective than other types of support for African American women with breast canceer with regards to managing the treatment and side effects.

The goals of STORY:
~ Improve knowledge about the treatment and side effects of breast cancer
~ Decrease fear and isolation
~ Increase social connections
~ Improve quality of life

The ultimate goal is to empower the African American woman living with cancer to live a full life and thrive despite the stressful experience. STORY is designed to remind African American women that they are not alone as there are many survivors.

The eligibility requirements for African American women with breast cancer:
~ Diagnosed within the past six months
~ Invasive ductal breast cancer, including subtype
~ Had or will have a lumpectomy

The final study group begins September 14, 2009.

Patients are recognized for their time and effort given to the study with thank you gifts and gift cards from local businesses.

For additional information, please call 803-434-3118 or e-mail story@palmettohealth.org.

Special thanks to HiLuv Johnson at Palmetto Health for providing the information.

Shoshana Johnson: I'm Still Standing

Shoshana Johnson, former U.S. Army soldier and first African American female prisoner of war, has penned a memoir about her capture, imprisonment and subsequent rescue by a team of U.S. Marines. Johnson made an appearance on Larry King Live on August 5, 2009 to give her perspective of what newly freed North Korean hostages and U.S. journalists, Laura Ling and Euna Lee may have endured and what they may be feeling since having been given a full pardon and released thanks to the efforts of former President Bill Clinton. Clinton is still respected and loved around the world.

Johnson's book (as listed on Borders.com), I’m Still Standing: From Captive Soldier to Free Citizen--my Journey Home, will be available on February 2, 2010 and can be preordered. No image of the book is currently available.

Amazon.com lists several different titles for the book, including, I'm Still Standing: Memoirs of a Woman Soldier Held Captive in Iraq.

No matter the actual book title, it's a great thing that Shoshana is still standing!

NeNe has a book!

NeNe Leakes and her husband Gregg were on Wednesday's Wendy Williams show. NeNe has a new book, Never Make the Same Mistake Twice: Lessons on Love and Life Learned the Hard Way. The second season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta begins July 30th on Bravo.


Kandi Burruss, former member of R&B group, Xscape, joins NeNe, Lisa Wu Hartwell and the rest of the cast for more drama.

Music News: Whitney's return, Mariah, Michael Jackson

Whitney fans rejoice! The diva's long absence from the music scene has finally ended with the completion of her latest CD, I Look to You. The new CD is will be available on September 1 and the cover features a stunning photo of the former model. The iconic singer, who is the only artist to have seven consecutive multiplatinum albums catapulting her past the Beatles, will kick off the Fall Concert Series for GMA. Welcome back, Whitney!!!





Mariah Carey has listeners wondering if her latest release is about rapper Eminem. The director of the Obsessed video asserts that it is not. The song is from her new CD, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, available August 25.

MTV Shows

Finally, in music news, a short portion of an unreleased song, A Place with No Name, by the world's most dominating musical force ever, the late Michael Jackson, has been obtained by TMZ.com. Here's a youtube video by user Smoothiesforseals .

L.A.W.K.: Ladies Armed With Knowledge

If anyone knows the importance of intervening in the life of a young woman, turning a difficult circumstance around, and guiding her along the right path, it is Chandra Cleveland, founder of Ladies Armed With Knowledge (L.A.W.K.). The Columbia, South Carolina organization serves ladies as young 12 years of age and as mature as 50 years of age. The primary goal of L.A.W.K. is to prevent detrimental behaviors while increasing the focus on positive endeavors.

Young women involved in the program offered by Ms. Cleveland are taught to avoid destructive activities such as becoming a gang member, engaging in behavior that results in teen pregnancy and welfare dependence, use of drugs, becoming a school drop-out and other delinquent behavior. L.A.W.K. currently serves the city of Columbia, Richland County, and surrounding areas but will soon be serving the entire state. Ms. Cleveland is proud to be instrumental in improving the lives of young women who reside in the most economically down-trodden areas of Columbia and Richland County. Uplifting and empowering these women are key to bettering the communities in which they reside.

In a recent telephone interview, Cleveland stated that her organization's symbol, the diamond, reflects the fact that L.A.W.K. is present to help young women reclaim the clarity they have lost, regardless of the causation, allowing them to overcome their current situation and achieve a prosperous future. The example of a loss of clarity she used was a common one... a young lady has a child and drops out of school. Through Ladies Armed With Knowledge, she can obtain a GED, attend college or learn a trade.

If you know of a diamond in the rough whose potential needs a bit of polishing to coax to the surface her inherent ability to sparkle, Chandra Cleveland's contact information is listed below. L.A.W.K. accepts referrals from the Department of Social Services, the juvenile justice system, school personnel, community service agencies, family, friends and self-referrals.

L.A.W.K.
2601 Read St., Suite I-8
Columbia, SC 29204
Phone: (803) 223-9314
Fax: (803) 233-2654
E-mail: ccleveland@lawk.org

Research reveals carcinogen in KFC grilled chicken

KFC is already being asked to discontinue the sale of it's popular grilled chicken product by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) after testing found that the food product contains a carcinogen known to cause breast, colon, prostate and several other cancers in humans.

Six samples containing two pieces each of KFC grilled chicken obtained by a PCRM scientist from six different KFC restaurants were tested at Columbia
Analytical Services (CAS). The Kelso, Washington environmental testing laboratory is certified and independent. Laboratory personnel were not aware of the samples being the product of KFC. Tests utilizing proven detection methods found that all twelve pieces were positive for the following HCAs: PhIP, IQ, MeIQ, and MeIQx. HCAs or heterocyclic amines, is a chemical family of cancer causing agents discovered in multiple scientific studies. PhIP was found in the most significant amount with the others being present in smaller concentrations. PhIP is a chemical that is not found naturally in chicken or other meats but rather forms when the meat is heated to a satisfatory degree during cooking, including grilling, pan-frying, or barbecuing.

This issue certainly bears further scrutiny and, at the least, cautiousness on the part of the consumer. Click here for more details, including a link to the actual report.

Special thanks to C. Lewis for the email alert!

Wendy Williams: Hail to the Queen of All Media

Wendy Williams, well-known radio host of the celebrity gossip show, The Wendy Williams Experience and the woman dubbed "Queen of All Media" (though I have no idea by whom), has a new gig on BET. The show is simply titled Wendy Williams.

As a fan of Queen Wendy, I was anxious to watch the show, on which she featured a very classy lady as her first guest... Ms.
Vanessa Williams. Vanessa let everyone know that although Wendy kept mum about it, it had been proclaimed "Wendy Williams Day" in Manhattan. Knowing that she had long been "a friend in my head" --- Wendy's term for someone she admires and would genuinely like to be friends with in real life --- Vanessa declared that they are now friends who can hang out. Men, you'll be happy to know that Vanessa claims to without a love life. She sang the title song from her new CD, The Real Thing.

Wendy interacts with her audience with an unaffected ease. Well, she is doing what she does best after all, talking and it's not her first TV talk show. The audience seemed enthusiastic and excited to be a part of the show. I was glad to see it in the lineup,tuned in immediately and phoned a few friends to make certain they knew it was on. A few years back, her radio show was moved from an afternoon slot to a fairly late night slot 10:00 pm), so I haven't been amused by her antics in a long time. Of course, the Queen of All Media has expanded her empire to allow her loyal subjects to follow her on Facebook and Twitter.


I have only one question. BET, what took you so long to bring Wendy to my house? Congratulations, Wendy!!!

Here's Breathless from Vanessa's The Real Thing CD

ABC to air exclusive Jackson Family footage tonight

If, like every other Michael Jackson fan on the planet, you are interested in all things Michael, then you'll want to tune in to ABC Primetime Family Secrets: Inside the Jackson Compound. On Today's episode of The View, Barbara Walters revealed that ABC had paid the Jackson family $200,000 for the footage airing tonight at 10:00 p.m. (est). The never before seen video was filmed in support of Joe Jackson's desire for a reality show about the Jacksons that he had hoped would be instrumental in reestablishing the Jackson 5. Katherine is also in the film speaking about Joe and Michael and playing a game with some of the grandchildren.

Someone left a comment after the ABC article about tonight's program that included a link to an article by Linda Grasse which thoroughly explores Michael's charitable interests. It's definitely worth the read. You may also be interested in The Humanitarian Activist. The writers of these articles are clearly Michael Jackson fans who seek to strengthen his image rather than vilify him with negative portrayals. Bravo!

Masonic Love - a Tracy Spence Novella

Hey avid reader... are you looking for an action-packed, romance-filled novella with descriptions of characters and scenes that make you feel as though you're right there watching the drama unfold? Then Masonic Love is the perfect summer read!

In The Tapestry Collection, Tracy Spence weaves the perfect little tale in the first thread to unravel in her debut novella, a four-part series of short stories carefully crafted with drama and suspense and infused with a touch of erotic romance.

Masonic Love tells the tale of childhood sweethearts, Alonzo Rhimes and Bree Daniels, reunited after a painful break up only to find one another again under very different circumstances. Alonzo must decide if he is willing to give up on the only woman he’s ever loved for a Brotherhood that has been a tradition in the Rhimes family. Are brotherhood loyalties worth losing the love of your life? Find out what Alonzo decides!

Order your copy of Masonic Love - The Tapestry Collection online today at Amazon or Create Space.

Masonic Love The Tapestry Collection
PUBLICATION DATE: June 13, 2009
Price: $11.95 ● Paperback ● ISBN 1-4421-9389-1

About the Author

TRACY SPENCE is also a writer of screenplays and is working on a sitcom based on the real estate company her family owned as a child. She is currently working on several projects for her new novella collection in addition to co-hosting an internet radio show, Chat! with Dee & Traysea on www.blogtalkradio.com/Dee_Traysea. She resides in Palm Beach County, Florida with her husband, two daughters and beloved Bishon Frise.


To request a review copy, place an order, or to discuss a book signing event,
please contact the author directly at
tracy@tracyspencewrites.com or trayseawrite@ymail.com ◊ 561-201-2934

Palin Stepping Down as Alaska's Governor

Sarah Palin announced minutes ago that she is leaving her position as governor of Alaska. Yeah, Alaska!

Free Memorial on Tuesday for Michael Jackson

A free public memorial service for megastar Michael Jackson will be held on Tuesday at the Staples Center at 10:00 a.m. (1:00 p.m. Eastern). Fans who wish to attend the Los Angeles event should go to Staples Center to apply for a free set of tickets, which will be awarded randomly.

17,500 tickets are available to those who sign up online between now and Saturday at 6:00 p.m. The breakdown is as follows - 11,000 will watch live in the Staples Center and the remaining 6,500 will watch the a live stream at the Nokia Center.

Police will not allow anyone without a ticket or wristband near the Staples Center. Fans are strongly urged not to attempt to scalp tickets for this event in honor of Michael Jackson. The city of Los Angeles and the Jackson family have gone to great lengths to make this memorial service available to the fans. They realize that everyone will not be able to attend and have provided for a live broadcast that fans may view on their televisions or on the Internet.



Related Links:

CNN: Jackson specktacle likely a world event
(Shame on CNN for use of the word spectacle!)

Tickets For Michael Jackson's Funeral

Loaves & Fishes Biloxi Seeking Assistance

Just Moving On Blog, which features Gospel music from the days of vinyl, is helping to get the word out about the call for assistance for East Biloxi, Mississippi food pantry Loaves & Fishes. The soup kitchen was established in 1983 and has been providing meals for those in need since that time. Miss Rita, Miss Kathie and the rest of the staff weathered Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and, despite the tremendous damage suffered, returned to the task of feeding Biloxi's hungry. They even allow Sir Lattimore Brown to use the phone once he has depleted his cell phone minutes each month.

The Soul Detective, Red Kelly, set up a fund to raise money to keep Loaves & Fishes open. Please help...we're all in this together!

Michael Jackson's Cause of Death Deferred

Craig Harvery, of the L.A. County Coroner's Office, announced moments ago that the official cause of death of the undisputed King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has been deferred pending further testing. These include toxicology, neuropathology and pulmonary tests. An additional 4 to 6 weeks is needed to complete the examination. Harvey reported that there was no indication of foul play or physical trauma to Jackson's body which is available for release to the family once a private mortuary has been selected. Harvey refused comment on whether evidence of specific drugs was found during the autopsy such as demerol.

Bestselling author Deepak Chopra has said publicly that he realized years ago that his dear friend was addicted to pain killers used for various medical issues to include Lupus and back pain. Jackson had reportedly received a shot of demerol prior to his untimely death.

For more breaking news on the surreal and tragic death of Michael Jackson, a star the likes of whom this world has never seen and will never see again, tune in to any number of news programs, including Nancy Grace at 8:00 p.m. on HLN, Larry King Live at 9:00 p.m, MSNBC, etc.

Read Lisa Marie Presley's blog post on her former husband. It is truly touching. Although the vast majority of his fans never got to know him personally, we loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans across the world. Michael will live on in our hearts through his powerful music and performances.

This is a performance of my all time favorite song by Michael Jackson, Man in the Mirror. Your earthly cares are no more, Michael. Rest in peace!



Childhood, the song that Michael said was his most autobiographical.

The Art of Distraction:SC Governor Apologizes Again

South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford has offered up yet another apology. This time it was his Cabinet members who were subjected to his whining about his personal indiscretions.

The citizens of South Carolina should not allow themselves to be lead astray by the art of distraction being practiced by Sanford. In his long-winded apologies, he refers God and Bible passages, clearly none of which mattered much to him while he was carrying on his infamous affair. Nor did it matter to him when, as the head of a state consistently at or very near the bottom of the list when compared to the rest of the country on issues like the poor economy, health care and education, he used state funds to finance his rendezvous with his mistress in Argentina. Now he declares that he will pay back the $12,000.00 to the state. Gee, thanks, Mr. Governor.

Mr. Sanford, if you truly want to do the right thing, do the state of South Carolina a solid favor by resigning. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Right now. You left your post without giving notice to anyone in your down line, thereby leaving the state in a vulnerable position. Your personal dalliances are of no consequence to anyone but your wife and children, save the fact that you showed no regard for your professional duties that you took an oath to carry out when you became governor of the state. Your lies, failure to maintain professional integrity, improper use of state monies and dereliction of your duty as the head of the state affect every member of the South Carolina public.

Save your affected regret for your family and discontinue this outrageous course of public apologies designed for the sole purpose of directing the public's attention away from what truly matters... you have been an ineffective leader of the State of South Carolina for sometime now. Perhaps the underlying reason was your illicit, long distance affair. Perhaps you simply were never right for the job.

While I am certain South Carolinians appreciate your candor regarding your recent acknowledgment of your weaknesses and defects, it is nothing more than a self-serving ploy if you do not leave office.

America I Am Exhibit

"America I Am"

Presented by Tavis Smiley

Wednesday, June 17, 2009
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Ongoing until September 6, 2009

America I AM: The African American Imprint is a four-year touring museum exhibition that will celebrate 400 years of African American contributions to this country. The exhibition presents a historical continuum of pivotal moments in courage, conviction and creativity that solidifies the undeniable imprint of African Americans across the nation and around the world.

Hours of Operation:
Monday – CLOSED
Tuesday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 3:30 PM
Wednesday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 3:30 PM
Thursday – 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, last entry at 6:30 PM
Friday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 3:30 PM
Saturday - 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 3:30 PM
Sunday – 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 3:30 PM

The average visit to the exhibition is 90 minutes.

Photography of any kind is not permitted inside the Exhibition.

Tickets: Children 3-12 years $5
12 years and older $12
Seniors 65 and older $8
For groups of 10 or more call Group Sales at 1-866-524-7687

Visit Website - http://americaiam.org/

Special thanks to my friend Melvita for the information.

Rita Hubbard - An Entrepreneur's Heart

For anyone in need of a bit of inspiration while trying to achieve a dream or establish a business, this one's for you. Visit Rita at her website.

An Entrepreneur's Heart from SEVEN Fund on Vimeo.

Special thanks to Hope Clark at Funds for Writers for the information!