By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Well Christmas of 2009 is over, and here it is Saturday, December 26, UMOJA, the first day of Kwanzaa is upon us. UMOJA, means Unity. And is the first candle that is lit on the Kinara.
The great news is that Maulana Ron Karenga will be in Brooklyn on Monday, December 28, at Boys and Girls High School to preside over the Kwanzaa celebration in conjunction with NAKO, and you’re all invited to attend.
The even more spectacular news is that this is the 43rd year that Kwanzaa has been celebrated in the African American communities throughout the United States, and indications are that it is getting stronger and stronger each year.
The important thing is that we begin to inculcate the principles of Kwanzaa each and every day, so that we can begin being the great people we already are, but have allowed to be hidden under clouds of negativity and psychosocial/economic oppression.
While it’s wonderful that Brother Karenga will be in our midst, there are any number of Kwanzaa “gurus” in every corner of our society, who have kept the tradition alive. I truly urge all of us to make sure that we are in attendance and participating fully in this wonderful celebration of our strength, resilience, resourcefulness, creativity, intelligence and love. We owe it to ourselves, our children and our ancestors to always remember and inculcate who we are and who we are yet to become.
Interestingly, practically everything we have invented or touched as a people from a positive standpoint, have been adopted in some shape, form or fashion by other cultures. Somehow we have been remiss in doing the same. It’s time to not only appreciate our special gifts individually and collectively, and to celebrate them, but to also put them into practice and expand them for our own betterment.
We hold ourselves out as the spiritual consciousness of the world, but we have failed, in large measure to use those wonderful gifts for ourselves and our children. Let’s invoke the spirit of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Marcus Garvey, Elijah Muhammad, Brother Malcolm, Dr. Martin Luther King, and so many others who exhorted us to do for ourselves.
For those of you who are still unfamiliar with the NGUZO SABA (nnn-goo-zoh sah-bah) SEVEN PRINCIPLES or SEVEN DAYS OF KWANZAA and their meanings, here they are:
DAY 1: DECEMBER 26: UMOJA (ooh-moh-jah) - UNITY: solidarity, peaceful togetherness as families, friends, neighbors, communities;
DAY 2: DECEMBER 27: KUJICHAGULIA (koo-jee-chah-gu-lee-ah): SELF DETERMINATION: Right of persons and peoples to determine their own destiny and daily lives; to honor their culture and traditions, to live in peace and security and flourish in freedom;
EVENT ALERT: Kwanzaa Celebration at the Museum of Natural History in Manhattan, from 12:00 to 5:00 pm. Bring your kids and celebrate.
DAY 3: DECEMBER 28: UJIMA (ooh-jee-mah): COLLECTIVE WORK & RESPONSIBILITY: Commitment to working together for the economic viability of one’s community/society; to build good communities without war or privation.
EVENT ALERT: Maulana Karenga at Boys and Girls High 6:00pm until - 1700 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY
DAY 4: DECEMBER 29: UJAMAA (ooh-jah-mah): COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS (Jamaa means family in Swahili): Shared work, wealth, the right to control and benefit from one’s labor; to receive equitable share in the goods of the world and the fruits of our labor; health, wealth, and prosperity individually and collectively;
DAY 5: DECEMBER 30: NIA (nee-ah) PURPOSE: Ethical basis for interaction and self development. Collectively bringing, increasing and sustaining the good in our lives and the world.
DAY 6: DECEMBER 31: KUUMBA (koo-oom-bah): CREATIVITY: A moral obligation to do all we can to develop, heal, repair, rebuild our homes, community and environment to the highest and best possible quality; to leave it more beautiful than we found it.
DAY 7: JANUARY 1, IMANI (ee-mah-nee); FAITH: the direct opposite of negativity, hostility, cynicism, despair, stress and depression. Believing that the good we seek to create is not only possible, but available to us as we work for it individually and collectively. You cannot have faith and doubt/worry/fear at the same time. If you spend more time in doubt and disbelief, you will get what you attract. We are what we think predominantly. Faith without works is dead; work without faith is slavery. IMANI charges us to remain in Faith, and live each and every day in the consciousness that we deserve the best life has to give, and to work for it, not in opposition to anyone else’s good, but in support of each other’s good.
EVENT ALERT: Throughout New York City, individuals and organizations host all day open events in honor of IMANI. Check your local papers, online calendars and friends for what's happening in your area.
The Kwanzaa Ceremony is very beautiful, traditional, and mirrors the highest and best of our blended, Eclectically Black traditions that span Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and the US (a/k/a the Diaspora). A Mkeka (mat) is set with a Kinara (candle holder with 7 candles), which are lit daily to signify each day/principle; there is a Kikombe (cup/challis) from which libations are poured in honor of our ancestors -- those who are in Africa, those who died during the middle passage, and those who were enslaved, as well as those who have survived so that we may continue to live (or died as martyrs trying to). After the libation, Zawadi (gifts) are given that signifies each of the principles on each day. There are fruits and other offerings on the Mkeka to signify the “fruits of or labor or a good harvest. Some urban families put dollars and photos of family members on the Mkeka as well.
The original of Kwanzaa was that it would be the alternative to the highly commercialized event Christmas had become. The gifts were to have been hand made as opposed to purchased. I admittedly celebrate both holidays, and think they both have significance and validity for those of us of African Heritage.
Though it is not a part of the NGUZO SABA, I think it would be wonderful to add one other principle, that appears to be sorely lacking among our people, and that is MPENDA (mmm-pen-dah) LOVE: Without LOVE none of the principles work as well as they should. We need to love ourselves and each other; our children, our families, friends.
It was because of the high calling of LOVE that our forebearers laid down their lives for us; risked their lives to teach us when it was illegal in this country to do so; stood for us against racists, when they would surely be cut down, arrested, harassed. It’s love that makes Black mothers lay aside their own needs to make sure their babies survive; that makes fathers work two and three jobs to make sure there is food on the table and a roof on our heads. It’s LOVE that makes so many unsung s/heroes write books about and for Black people; and so many of the leaders take the principled stands that they have. It’s the LOVE that will take us through 2010 to 2020 and beyond.
In the spirit of LOVE I say "MPENZI, Mimi ni kupenda sasa hivi, na tuwaliomba shirikisho. MUNGU ITAKU BARITI!**
(BELOVED, I LOVE YOU NOW, AND WISH YOU SUCCESS. GOD WILL BLESS YOU!)"**
**(now, for all my friends from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, etc., please don’t hold me on the literal translation. My Swahili is rusty. But I think you’ll agree that this is the gist of the saying. Ndio?)
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
NACA AT BOYS & GIRLS HIGH BROOKLYN, JANUARY 2, 2010
Make your Mortgage Payment affordable! Same Day Permanent Solutions |
KEEP YOUR HOME – ALL SERVICES ARE FREE! NACA is the most effective organization in restructuring mortgages to an affordable payment by permanently reducing the interest rate to 5%, 4%, 3% or 2% and, where necessary, reducing the principal. NACA has legal binding contracts with all the major lenders to achieve solutions for thousands of homeowners. |
When Who Should Attend How to Register About NACA SATURDAY JANUARY 2 2009 BOYS & GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL 1700 FULTON ST BROOKLYN, NY Anyone with an unaffordable mortgage who is an owner- occupant and non-investor. Participation is not based on the following: Mortgage status, Employment or Income Level; Type, Value or Location of House. To register and attend visit www.NACA.com or call toll-free 1-888-499-NACA (6222) Walk-ins are welcomed Founded in 1988, NACA is the largest and most effective non-profit, HUD certified, advocacy and homeownership organization. NACA has set the standard in providing the Best Mortgage Program for at-risk homeowners and homebuyers. ««« One Of Many Dreams Saved Homeowner Surmontee Morgan of Cleveland is just one of many examples. Her interest rate went from 7.8% to 2% fixed for the life of the loan. "I thank God that NACA intervened. NACA helped us save all that we worked for which was our home. We're saving more than $600 a month." said Mrs. Morgan To register go to NACA.com or call 1-888-499-NACA (1-888-499-6222). Walk-ins welcomed To register go to NACA.com or call 1-888-499-NACA (1-888-499-6222). Walk-ins welcomed
Servicers and Lenders will have hundreds of staff available to restructure loans the same day!
«««
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
NACA HOME SAVE PROGRAM AT BOYS & GIRLS HIGH IN BROOKLYN JANUARY 2, 2010
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND AND GREAT NECESSITY NACA'S SAVE THE DREAM FORECLOSURE PREVENTION AT BOYS and GIRLS HIGH IN BROOKLYN JANUARY 2, 2010
BY Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I so am happy to announce that as a result of the overwhelming turn out, and the demand, NACA will be hosting a 2 HOUR WORKSHOP SATURDAY, JANUARY 2, 2010, 1pm - 3pm at BOYS AND GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL, 1700 Harriett Tubman Way (1700 Fulton St.), in Brooklyn, NY.
So mark your calendars, clear your agendas; get your paperwork together. It's the day after Kwanzaa, the Saturday after New Years day. But more importantly, this is a second chance to receive assistance WITH YOUR PROBLEM MORTGAGES, FORECLOSURE NOTICES AND AUCTION NOTICES, and TO SAVE YOUR HOMES.
NACA, the acronym for the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, recently wrapped up a 5-day intensive, Save The Dream foreclosure prevention blitz at the Javits Center. From Friday, December 11 through Tuesday, December 15, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, nearly 12 hours a day, non-stop, they provided free, same day mortgage restructuring for New Yorkers and surrounding communities in the tri-state area.
More than 2000 homes were saved. To ensure complete and comprehensive service, they brought 320 counselors to New York City from North Carolina for their highly successful Home Save Program.
While the first day's turnout was sparse, by December 15, the final day, the line was around the block. Unfortunately, too many people waited until the last minute. Too many didn't believe that NACA could help. Too many had already taken their hard earned, hard to come by money (usually $3000.00) and gave it to "consultants" who promised to help but ripped them off instead. Too many tried to work things out with their banks, and found themselves ignored and disrespected, have become jaundiced, or stressed and distressed, and so have virtually given up. So many people arrived at Javits late in the day, much too late to receive any effective assistance, with less than 4 hours before the center closed, and hundreds already on line ahead of them.
So this is a second chance. NACA is back by popular demand and dire necessity. And this time they're in Brooklyn. If you are one of the people who bought an over priced property; have an over sized, unmanageable mortgage, and you don't know where your next dime is coming from that you need to be there.
You need to be the first in line to get the services that NACA is providing. If you're reading the latest dish on Tiger instead of focusing on the reduction in your mortgage payments, you are on the late show.
Though President Obama has done his best to negotiate with mercenary banks and mortgage companies to have mercy on home owners, the only organization that has really been able to bring them to heel is NACA. People came from New Jersey, Long Island, Atlanta, GA, Connecticut, DC, even as far away as California to Javits Center to have their mortgages restructured. The great thing is that this time NACA will be in Brooklyn. This is a win-win situation.
Bruce Marks founded NACA 22 years ago as a result of predatory lending practices in Boston. A union leader at the time, Marks found out that his fellow union members were being redlined, gouged, denied, and put into situations that were untenable. Over the past 22 years, NACA has put together a precision package that has made a critical difference, not just in Boston, but throughout the US. So much so that his organization is endorsed by HUD as the go-to people to save homes.
By the way, NACA works with first time homebuyers as well, providing counseling, training, down payment, closing costs, and mortgages one percent below prime. So either way, you can't afford to not be there.
Live coverage of NACA's Home Save Project can be viewed online at www.onthespot.com.
So start off 2010 with the peace of mind that the roof over your head is secure. Even those who have joined the ranks of the recently unemployed or under employed will be able to get assistance through NACA.
I think I've made myself quite clear. If you don't own a home, but know someone who does, someone who is struggling with high mortgage payments, who has an auction date-- pass this on to them. Do not sit on it. If you are a church group, a non-profit organization, a union member, a legislator or an elected official -- tell your congregation, constituents and compadres.
NACA IS AT BOYS AND GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL, SATURDAY JANUARY 2, 2010, 1pm to 3pm. See you there.
Those of you who want more information about NACA's history and services, log on to www.naca.com.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
BY Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I so am happy to announce that as a result of the overwhelming turn out, and the demand, NACA will be hosting a 2 HOUR WORKSHOP SATURDAY, JANUARY 2, 2010, 1pm - 3pm at BOYS AND GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL, 1700 Harriett Tubman Way (1700 Fulton St.), in Brooklyn, NY.
So mark your calendars, clear your agendas; get your paperwork together. It's the day after Kwanzaa, the Saturday after New Years day. But more importantly, this is a second chance to receive assistance WITH YOUR PROBLEM MORTGAGES, FORECLOSURE NOTICES AND AUCTION NOTICES, and TO SAVE YOUR HOMES.
NACA, the acronym for the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, recently wrapped up a 5-day intensive, Save The Dream foreclosure prevention blitz at the Javits Center. From Friday, December 11 through Tuesday, December 15, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, nearly 12 hours a day, non-stop, they provided free, same day mortgage restructuring for New Yorkers and surrounding communities in the tri-state area.
More than 2000 homes were saved. To ensure complete and comprehensive service, they brought 320 counselors to New York City from North Carolina for their highly successful Home Save Program.
While the first day's turnout was sparse, by December 15, the final day, the line was around the block. Unfortunately, too many people waited until the last minute. Too many didn't believe that NACA could help. Too many had already taken their hard earned, hard to come by money (usually $3000.00) and gave it to "consultants" who promised to help but ripped them off instead. Too many tried to work things out with their banks, and found themselves ignored and disrespected, have become jaundiced, or stressed and distressed, and so have virtually given up. So many people arrived at Javits late in the day, much too late to receive any effective assistance, with less than 4 hours before the center closed, and hundreds already on line ahead of them.
So this is a second chance. NACA is back by popular demand and dire necessity. And this time they're in Brooklyn. If you are one of the people who bought an over priced property; have an over sized, unmanageable mortgage, and you don't know where your next dime is coming from that you need to be there.
You need to be the first in line to get the services that NACA is providing. If you're reading the latest dish on Tiger instead of focusing on the reduction in your mortgage payments, you are on the late show.
Though President Obama has done his best to negotiate with mercenary banks and mortgage companies to have mercy on home owners, the only organization that has really been able to bring them to heel is NACA. People came from New Jersey, Long Island, Atlanta, GA, Connecticut, DC, even as far away as California to Javits Center to have their mortgages restructured. The great thing is that this time NACA will be in Brooklyn. This is a win-win situation.
Bruce Marks founded NACA 22 years ago as a result of predatory lending practices in Boston. A union leader at the time, Marks found out that his fellow union members were being redlined, gouged, denied, and put into situations that were untenable. Over the past 22 years, NACA has put together a precision package that has made a critical difference, not just in Boston, but throughout the US. So much so that his organization is endorsed by HUD as the go-to people to save homes.
By the way, NACA works with first time homebuyers as well, providing counseling, training, down payment, closing costs, and mortgages one percent below prime. So either way, you can't afford to not be there.
Live coverage of NACA's Home Save Project can be viewed online at www.onthespot.com.
So start off 2010 with the peace of mind that the roof over your head is secure. Even those who have joined the ranks of the recently unemployed or under employed will be able to get assistance through NACA.
I think I've made myself quite clear. If you don't own a home, but know someone who does, someone who is struggling with high mortgage payments, who has an auction date-- pass this on to them. Do not sit on it. If you are a church group, a non-profit organization, a union member, a legislator or an elected official -- tell your congregation, constituents and compadres.
NACA IS AT BOYS AND GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL, SATURDAY JANUARY 2, 2010, 1pm to 3pm. See you there.
Those of you who want more information about NACA's history and services, log on to www.naca.com.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
LAST DAY FOR NACA SAME DAY HOME SAVE FROM FORECLOSURE AT THE JAVITS - GET YOURSELVES THERE!
TODAY IS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2009, AND BROOKLYNITES, AND THE REST OF THE 5 BOROUGHS HAVE EXACTLY 8 HOURS TO GET TO JAVITS WITH YOUR PROBLEM MORTGAGES, FORECLOSURE NOTICES AND AUCTION NOTICES TO SAVE YOUR PROPERTIES.
by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
There is an etiquette in the blogosphere that says when you write in all caps, it is considered shouting. Well I am shouting, because I need to get your attention.
Now I don't have to be any more graphic than that do I? Do I have to say it's 12:30 in the morning, do you know where your bank's loan modification server is? The unfortunate truth is that many of those in distress probably know more about Tiger Wood's misfortune than their own. Many are more informed about what is going to happen to his multi-millions of dollars than they are about where they're going to get the next month's money for their mortgage.
Do I have to those of you, who are one of the people who bought into an over priced property, with an over sized, unmanageable mortgage, and you don't know where your next dime is coming from that you need to be the first in line to get the same day service that NACA is providing free to the public, and if you're reading the Daily News latest dish on Tiger instead of the reduction in your mortgage payments, that you are on the late show?
Do I have to say that while President Obama has done the best he could to negotiate with mercenary banks ad mortgage companies to have mercy on home owners, but the only organization that has really been able to bring them to heel is NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, and while people are coming from New Jersey, Long Island, Connecticut, DC, even as far away as California, New Yorkers are sleeping on an opportunity that will save the very rooves over your heads.
I just spent the past three days at the Javits Center witnessing for my self people walking in looking as if they were on their last legs, dancing out praising NACA for having reduced their interest rates from 7.6% to 3%, and changing the mortgage from an adjustable rate to a fixed rate for the life of the loan (25 to 30 years or more). They brought 320 counselors from all over the US to provide face-to-face, hands on assistance to distressed homeowners. This is a win-win situation.
I interviewed Bruce Marks, the genius who founded NACA 22 years ago as a result of predatory lending practices in Boston. A union leader at the time, Marks found out that his fellow union members were being redlined, gouged, denied, and put into situations that were untenable. Over the past 22 years, NACA has put together a precision package that has made a critical difference, not just in Boston, but throughout the US. So much so that his organization is endorsed by HUD as the go-to people to save homes. The interview can be viewed online on www.onthespot.com.
But, why wait for the "movie", when the reality of saving your home is so much more compelling. Don't continue to be part of the statistics that depict homeowners in a deplorable state, at the mercy of lenders. It's time to take back your power, and the roof over your head. It's a subway/bus ride away to Javits Center.
And since most of the problems are being resolved the same day -- yes, I said the same day -- right then and there, this would probably be the best Christmas, Kwanzaa, gift you could give yourselves and your families. The peace of mind that the roof over your head is secure. Even those who have joined the ranks of the recently unemployed or under employed will be able to get assistance through NACA.
Now that I've gotten your attention, let me also say that they will be at the Jacob Javits Center today, Tuesday, December 15, all day from 9:00 AM til 8:00 PM.
Commedian D. L Hughley said on KISS-FM, after having paid a visit to the event on Friday, "This is no joke folks, get your stuff and get there. They are really doing same day restructuring of mortgages. Don't miss out."
I think I've made myself quite clear. If you don't own a home, but know someone who does, who is struggling -- pass this on to them. Do not sit on it. If you are part of a non-profit organization, and the most you've been able to get is a three-month trial modification or forebearance, send them to NACA at the Javits. It's about saving lives - homes - our community.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I sent the following message out a few days ago. People from all over the tri-state area responded. New Yorkers, who have the highest rents and mortgages on the planet, appear to be comatose. I wonder if there's something in the water? That would explain why the water bills are so high. Anyway, I digress. This is the press release I sent out ahead of the event:
Subject: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NACA'S SAVE THE DREAM FORECLOSURE PREVENTION AT JAVITS CENTER
For home owners and wannabe homeowners, NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, will be at the Jacob Javits Center Friday, December 11 thru Tuesday, December 15, with their HOME SAVE PROGRAM, that has been instrumental in saving thousands of homes from foreclosure via complete and total restructuring of mortgage payments (as opposed to temporary modifications). The same day service has been performed now in 13 other states.
This is the first time NACA has brought their SAVE THE DREAM to the New York area. They have successfully saved homes in Atlanta, GA, Washington, DC, North and South Carolina.
Take advantage of this opportunity; pass it on to your friends, associates, neighbors or any one you are aware of who may be facing dire straits during this pervasive economic downturn.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
You guys, I have been trying to get NACA in Brooklyn for over a year now, because we need them. They not only prevent foreclosures, but they are the only program that actually provides you with free down payment and closing costs, and a full, 30 year fixed mortgage that is 1% below the prime interest rate. What's not to like? What's not to support? They're in nearly every state in the US, except New York, not because we are soooo special, but because we are on the late show. And while we struggle, or have to cross the Hudson and go to Newark for assistance, others are benefitting from their services.
Wake up New York, the world is eating your lunch, and you're about to be replaced by those who can afford what the greedy have made unaffordable for you. NACA may be able to stop the madness. But it's time for you to educate yourselves. Don't keep beating the stimulus package drum. Go on line. Educate yourselves about NACA. They've been around for 22 years. They didn't just start yesterday. And they're here to help.
I'm on my way to Javits. Hope I'll see you there.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
William “Bill” Robinson’s Home going Ceremony: Saying Goodbye to a Fine Black Man
William “Bill” Robinson’s Home going Ceremony: Saying Goodbye to a Fine Black Man
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
William “Bill” Robinson, father, community leader, and husband of dynamic Assemblywoman Annette M. Robinson, made his transition on December 3,2009, after a valiant battle with prostate cancer. He was 72 years old.
The fact that Bill Robinson was a Fine Black Man (FBM) stemmed not only from his handsome good looks, but because of his strength of character, his love of his wife and children, the example he sat as a man and as a father; from his steadfastness in the face of the negative characterizations Black men have been saddled with; for his very heart, soul and spirit as well as his integrity and intelligence.
That‘s a lot of accolades to hang on one man, but Bill Robinson truly deserved each and every one of them, and perhaps some others as well. You see, he and his wife, Annette Robinson shared 52 years of marriage, 6 children, and a life of happy experiences, sprinkled with a few challenges, and a great many more triumphs.
A man of many talents, Bill Robinson was perhaps best known for his singing. He was so good that he had auditioned for the famed group the Ink Spots, back in the 50‘s, and was accepted to tour with them. As exciting a validation it was for him, he decided against it, placing the value of being at home to raise his children and to be a good husband to his wife. In other words, he placed family over fame. While some may consider it a sacrifice, Bill considered it his responsibility to be there for them.
Tall and handsome at 6’2”, he made sure that his two daughters and four sons had the benefit of all the love, discipline and values he could impart to them. Standing by them through thick and thin, he was the stuff heroes are made of. Yet, apart from his neighbors and children, he remains an unsung hero, at least as far as the main stream media is concerned.
But as testimony after testimony conveyed, Bill Robinson was and is much loved and respected in his community. The program graced with a very handsome color photo, was filled with letters of love from his devoted wife, Annette, which read, in part: “Thank you for the years we’ve shared. We’ve had some good days, some bad and some hills to climb. Through it all you stood tall and unwavering in your commitment to your family.“
His sons, James Anthony, Blaine, Mont; daughters Anna Marie and Dawn Alicia each wrote from the heart their gratitude to their father’s guidance, discipline and love. There were touching tributes to him from his grandchildren in farewell and gratitude. A family of many talents, granddaughter Lavonia A. Robinson sang in honor of her grandfather, barely making it through the tears.
Youngest son, the Rev. William Taharka Robinson, preached a sermon in honor of his father that brought the entire congregation at Bridge Street AME Church to their feet. Chronicling the many trips and sojourns to places of interest his father took them to as children, he spoke of the way his father would impart lessons of wisdom to them through word and example.
Eldest son, James, wrapped it up with his own recollection of his father’s punctuality, and ability to know the exact time without having to use a watch.
According to Sam Pinn of Ft. Green Senior Council, consummate musician, Bill Robinson was a favorite performer for 14 years at Brooklyn’s Jazz 966 -- a community center where he provided live entertainment. Many Brooklynites came out on Friday nights to dance and enjoy his music. A CD of “The Shrine of St. Cecelia,” a song he composed, was played in his honor for the congregation, with his clear voice reverberating throughout the church.
With so many words and tributes of praise, Brother William “Bill” Robinson’s life is worthy of a documentary, an exemplary work that should be held up as a beacon for other Fine Black Men in the making. A sort of workbook on how to reach that lofty status. It’s not that Bill Robinson was an exception to the rule or standard of what so many have characterized Black men as today. There are actually quite a few Fine Black Men such as himself who daily go unnoticed, unheralded, and unpraised. My father, grandfather, uncle and brother are all Fine Black Men, which is why it is so easy to recognized one when I see one. There are more of them in this community that we give credit for. Sister Annette Robinson and her family, and the extended family of the community of Brooklyn were truly blessed to have had Bill Robinson in their midst for so many loving and wonderful years.
Among those in attendance were State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, former Assemblyman Clarence Norman, Darryl Towns who also spoke for his father, Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns, Councilmembers Albert Vann, Letitia James, Regent Adelaide Sanford, community leader Katie Davis, Dr. Sheila Evans Tranum, Bishop Eric Figueroa, Rev. Robert Waterman, among so many others. The Rev. Cheryl Anthony helped Bill accept Jesus as his savior during his last days. The celebration was presided over by Dr. David Cousin, Pastor Bridge Street AME Church, where the homegoing ceremony was held.
Sharonnie Perry, a long time family friend and confidant made sure that the entire ceremony went as smoothly as possible, and read a poem she had composed in his honor, entitled “Remember Me As I Used to Be,” which reads, in part: “My leaving might have caused you some pain and grief, but rest assured your prayers were answered for it eased my pain and gave me relief. So don’t cry for me, when I must leave, for I will be with your forever. For I am the wind beneath your wing.”
While it is appropriate to offer condolences to the family, they are also to be congratulated as well. Because just as they were blessed, Bill Robinson was likewise blessed with a wonderful, loving family. And it is clear that their being in his life made his transition truly happy indeed. He could go knowing that his was a job well done.
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
William “Bill” Robinson, father, community leader, and husband of dynamic Assemblywoman Annette M. Robinson, made his transition on December 3,2009, after a valiant battle with prostate cancer. He was 72 years old.
The fact that Bill Robinson was a Fine Black Man (FBM) stemmed not only from his handsome good looks, but because of his strength of character, his love of his wife and children, the example he sat as a man and as a father; from his steadfastness in the face of the negative characterizations Black men have been saddled with; for his very heart, soul and spirit as well as his integrity and intelligence.
That‘s a lot of accolades to hang on one man, but Bill Robinson truly deserved each and every one of them, and perhaps some others as well. You see, he and his wife, Annette Robinson shared 52 years of marriage, 6 children, and a life of happy experiences, sprinkled with a few challenges, and a great many more triumphs.
A man of many talents, Bill Robinson was perhaps best known for his singing. He was so good that he had auditioned for the famed group the Ink Spots, back in the 50‘s, and was accepted to tour with them. As exciting a validation it was for him, he decided against it, placing the value of being at home to raise his children and to be a good husband to his wife. In other words, he placed family over fame. While some may consider it a sacrifice, Bill considered it his responsibility to be there for them.
Tall and handsome at 6’2”, he made sure that his two daughters and four sons had the benefit of all the love, discipline and values he could impart to them. Standing by them through thick and thin, he was the stuff heroes are made of. Yet, apart from his neighbors and children, he remains an unsung hero, at least as far as the main stream media is concerned.
But as testimony after testimony conveyed, Bill Robinson was and is much loved and respected in his community. The program graced with a very handsome color photo, was filled with letters of love from his devoted wife, Annette, which read, in part: “Thank you for the years we’ve shared. We’ve had some good days, some bad and some hills to climb. Through it all you stood tall and unwavering in your commitment to your family.“
His sons, James Anthony, Blaine, Mont; daughters Anna Marie and Dawn Alicia each wrote from the heart their gratitude to their father’s guidance, discipline and love. There were touching tributes to him from his grandchildren in farewell and gratitude. A family of many talents, granddaughter Lavonia A. Robinson sang in honor of her grandfather, barely making it through the tears.
Youngest son, the Rev. William Taharka Robinson, preached a sermon in honor of his father that brought the entire congregation at Bridge Street AME Church to their feet. Chronicling the many trips and sojourns to places of interest his father took them to as children, he spoke of the way his father would impart lessons of wisdom to them through word and example.
Eldest son, James, wrapped it up with his own recollection of his father’s punctuality, and ability to know the exact time without having to use a watch.
According to Sam Pinn of Ft. Green Senior Council, consummate musician, Bill Robinson was a favorite performer for 14 years at Brooklyn’s Jazz 966 -- a community center where he provided live entertainment. Many Brooklynites came out on Friday nights to dance and enjoy his music. A CD of “The Shrine of St. Cecelia,” a song he composed, was played in his honor for the congregation, with his clear voice reverberating throughout the church.
With so many words and tributes of praise, Brother William “Bill” Robinson’s life is worthy of a documentary, an exemplary work that should be held up as a beacon for other Fine Black Men in the making. A sort of workbook on how to reach that lofty status. It’s not that Bill Robinson was an exception to the rule or standard of what so many have characterized Black men as today. There are actually quite a few Fine Black Men such as himself who daily go unnoticed, unheralded, and unpraised. My father, grandfather, uncle and brother are all Fine Black Men, which is why it is so easy to recognized one when I see one. There are more of them in this community that we give credit for. Sister Annette Robinson and her family, and the extended family of the community of Brooklyn were truly blessed to have had Bill Robinson in their midst for so many loving and wonderful years.
Among those in attendance were State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, former Assemblyman Clarence Norman, Darryl Towns who also spoke for his father, Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns, Councilmembers Albert Vann, Letitia James, Regent Adelaide Sanford, community leader Katie Davis, Dr. Sheila Evans Tranum, Bishop Eric Figueroa, Rev. Robert Waterman, among so many others. The Rev. Cheryl Anthony helped Bill accept Jesus as his savior during his last days. The celebration was presided over by Dr. David Cousin, Pastor Bridge Street AME Church, where the homegoing ceremony was held.
Sharonnie Perry, a long time family friend and confidant made sure that the entire ceremony went as smoothly as possible, and read a poem she had composed in his honor, entitled “Remember Me As I Used to Be,” which reads, in part: “My leaving might have caused you some pain and grief, but rest assured your prayers were answered for it eased my pain and gave me relief. So don’t cry for me, when I must leave, for I will be with your forever. For I am the wind beneath your wing.”
While it is appropriate to offer condolences to the family, they are also to be congratulated as well. Because just as they were blessed, Bill Robinson was likewise blessed with a wonderful, loving family. And it is clear that their being in his life made his transition truly happy indeed. He could go knowing that his was a job well done.
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
HEY MTA/NYCTA NOT SO FAST!!! -- MTA BIGS AT IT AGAIN!
HEY MTA/NYCTA NOT SO FAST!!! -- MTA BIGS AT IT AGAIN!
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Now isn’t this just amazing! The head of the Transit Authority finds that the incompetence of their book keepers have overlooked a $400 million dollar deficit and that they suddenly have to renege on their original promises, and will now cut back on services and simultaneously start charging students to ride the system, where heretofore they were able to ride free.
And guess what, to show that the pain is being passed around "equitably", the newly appointed incompetent, who replace the previous incompetent as chair, will take a 10% cut in his $300,000 salary - big whoop. It makes better sense to cut him and all the incompetents that have invaded the public space, but have no interest in working in the interest of the public they purport to serve.
Well, New York, if you buy that, I still have a bridge for sale that connects Manhattan to Brooklyn, and is only slightly used.
How many of you now realize that this was the REAL plan all along.
How many of you now realize that the MTA Board, packed like it is with Bloomberg appointees, were just waiting for the election to be sufficiently over before they started their latest shennanigans?
And how many of you realize that this nonsense usually starts in December when so many of us are focused on Christmas shopping, and during the colder months where it would be difficult to do without a functioning transit system.
To say that there is a method to their madness is an understatement. To say that they believe that they have New Yorkers by the short hairs is obvious. To underestimate the wrath of New Yorkers when you’re trying to screw us is stupid.
It’s time for some job cuts, all right -- and it has to begin at the top and should not stop until all the fatheads are gone.
It’s time to open those books for real. As Alan Hevesi said, they keep a double set of books, and the ones they show the public are not the ones with the real figures in them.
The transit system has been running a game on New Yorkers for quite some time now, and it’s gotten to the point that we have to nip it in the bud immediately if not sooner. Protests alone will not do it. It’s time to slap an injunction on any fare hikes, cut backs, disruption of services and let our attorneys general -- both state and federal -- have a look-see into what is really going on in our underground railroad.
Most of the characters on the MTA Board don’t even ride the transit system. They have chauffeurs to carry them around. They have been appointed by the “czar” of New York who is now getting ready to start an illegitimate third term as mayor.
He’s already shown what we are in for by trying to raise taxes on properties, and vetoing a piece of legislation that would give muni-meter customers a 5 minute grace period. As one New Yorker said, Bloomberg is "super rich, he doesn’t care about the people of New York unless they are as rich as he is."
Well, New Yorkers, what are we going to do with this most recent slap in the teeth at the hands of the TA? Stand up or be railroaded? It's time to get our state elected officials, the Governor, and perhaps even the feds, to put a halt to this debauchery. It's time for those who represent us to stand up for us. New York is under siege from practically every angle. Now it's time to deliver some GOOD NEWS for Christmas and beyond. There needs to be a complete and total clean sweep of all the MTA headless honchos, and replace them with people who live in and love New York and know what they're doing.
Likewise, the news media needs to stop making this a fait’ accompli. It seems there are no investigative reporters on any of the media any more - just regurgitators of information. Don’t know what school of journalism you went to, but when something smells fishy, it means you have to do more than just report, you have to look into it and find out what the Sam Hill is going on. Inquiring minds demand answers. Now!
Those of you who are a part of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) likewise need to be on top of this issue. You’re next! As I have said when they transformed token booths to empty boxes with no one to service the commuters, by the time they get through, robots will be running the system, and you all will be out of a job. These cut backs are aimed directly at you as much as it is at we the New Yorkers who ride the system daily.
The NYCTA transit system is the heart, nerve, and sinew of New York City, and someone is getting ready to do a hatchet job on it. By the time they get through we will be bleeding from every turnstile, with whole corridors of track drained and lifeless.
By the way, the MTA is playing a simple game of sleight of hand. They have you looking at the trains, which are doing a record job, but their real cash cow is the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority (TBTA), where the money comes in by the truck loads -- literally. They’re not broke. They’re just trying to make us broke. Don’t get railroaded by their greed. ###
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
www.gloriadulanwilsonblog.com
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Now isn’t this just amazing! The head of the Transit Authority finds that the incompetence of their book keepers have overlooked a $400 million dollar deficit and that they suddenly have to renege on their original promises, and will now cut back on services and simultaneously start charging students to ride the system, where heretofore they were able to ride free.
And guess what, to show that the pain is being passed around "equitably", the newly appointed incompetent, who replace the previous incompetent as chair, will take a 10% cut in his $300,000 salary - big whoop. It makes better sense to cut him and all the incompetents that have invaded the public space, but have no interest in working in the interest of the public they purport to serve.
Well, New York, if you buy that, I still have a bridge for sale that connects Manhattan to Brooklyn, and is only slightly used.
How many of you now realize that this was the REAL plan all along.
How many of you now realize that the MTA Board, packed like it is with Bloomberg appointees, were just waiting for the election to be sufficiently over before they started their latest shennanigans?
And how many of you realize that this nonsense usually starts in December when so many of us are focused on Christmas shopping, and during the colder months where it would be difficult to do without a functioning transit system.
To say that there is a method to their madness is an understatement. To say that they believe that they have New Yorkers by the short hairs is obvious. To underestimate the wrath of New Yorkers when you’re trying to screw us is stupid.
It’s time for some job cuts, all right -- and it has to begin at the top and should not stop until all the fatheads are gone.
It’s time to open those books for real. As Alan Hevesi said, they keep a double set of books, and the ones they show the public are not the ones with the real figures in them.
The transit system has been running a game on New Yorkers for quite some time now, and it’s gotten to the point that we have to nip it in the bud immediately if not sooner. Protests alone will not do it. It’s time to slap an injunction on any fare hikes, cut backs, disruption of services and let our attorneys general -- both state and federal -- have a look-see into what is really going on in our underground railroad.
Most of the characters on the MTA Board don’t even ride the transit system. They have chauffeurs to carry them around. They have been appointed by the “czar” of New York who is now getting ready to start an illegitimate third term as mayor.
He’s already shown what we are in for by trying to raise taxes on properties, and vetoing a piece of legislation that would give muni-meter customers a 5 minute grace period. As one New Yorker said, Bloomberg is "super rich, he doesn’t care about the people of New York unless they are as rich as he is."
Well, New Yorkers, what are we going to do with this most recent slap in the teeth at the hands of the TA? Stand up or be railroaded? It's time to get our state elected officials, the Governor, and perhaps even the feds, to put a halt to this debauchery. It's time for those who represent us to stand up for us. New York is under siege from practically every angle. Now it's time to deliver some GOOD NEWS for Christmas and beyond. There needs to be a complete and total clean sweep of all the MTA headless honchos, and replace them with people who live in and love New York and know what they're doing.
Likewise, the news media needs to stop making this a fait’ accompli. It seems there are no investigative reporters on any of the media any more - just regurgitators of information. Don’t know what school of journalism you went to, but when something smells fishy, it means you have to do more than just report, you have to look into it and find out what the Sam Hill is going on. Inquiring minds demand answers. Now!
Those of you who are a part of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) likewise need to be on top of this issue. You’re next! As I have said when they transformed token booths to empty boxes with no one to service the commuters, by the time they get through, robots will be running the system, and you all will be out of a job. These cut backs are aimed directly at you as much as it is at we the New Yorkers who ride the system daily.
The NYCTA transit system is the heart, nerve, and sinew of New York City, and someone is getting ready to do a hatchet job on it. By the time they get through we will be bleeding from every turnstile, with whole corridors of track drained and lifeless.
By the way, the MTA is playing a simple game of sleight of hand. They have you looking at the trains, which are doing a record job, but their real cash cow is the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority (TBTA), where the money comes in by the truck loads -- literally. They’re not broke. They’re just trying to make us broke. Don’t get railroaded by their greed. ###
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
www.gloriadulanwilsonblog.com
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