By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Well, it’s déjà vu all over again. The so-called ethics committee is going to “investigate” Congressman Charlie Rangel.
Don’t you find it interesting that this is similar to the b.s. investigation they leveled against Adam Clayton Powell Jr., when he became head of the House Ways and Means Committee, and attached more bills in favor of African Americans to any bill on the floor in the history of Congress? They came up with trumped up charges against him as well, and finally were able to use their bogus allegations to drive him out of office.
Interesting isn’t it that both men are Black, both from New York, both take principled stands, and both were head of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee?
Does anyone see the parallel between that and now? Is this a familiar issue to us? You bet your sweet a___ it is! Who here really believe that Charlie Rangel is guilty of anything egregious enough to be brought before the committee. Who really understands it’s the same yellow journalism that has been leveled against President Obama. The mainstream media have been used by the right wing to hound him, in much the same way they did Bill Clinton, to blow out of proportion issues that should not have even made a quarter inch column.
Compared to his track record, this is minutiae blown out of proportion. But, as with anything, we are not only ten times more talented, we are generally painted as ten times more guilty and culpable than any white (yes I said it) white congress person, white president, etc. We have to see it for what it really is. There is no ethics in the ethics committee. It’s in name only. It’s convenient when they have allowed the court of media-fanned public opinion to push them into knee jerk action.
Case in point: Where was the ethics committee when people like Strom Thurmond or Robert Byrd were around? Both were blatant racists; both card carrying members of the KKK. Both were segregationists, racists. Their just making an apology does not mitigate what African Americans suffered at their hands. How can we be sure that Charlie Rangel is being dealt with ethically, equitably, with the same criteria the give their Caucasian peers. Why should we give credence to this trial; where they tie his feet to the fire, while the others are able to skulk around, flying low under the radar.
Where were the ethics when the Vice President Cheyney under George Bush, Jr., accidentally on purpose shot someone during a hunting trip? Where were they when Cheyney was running the White House and ruining America by fiat? Where were they when the entire bottom dropped out of our economy, under the advise and consent of key people in the Republican dominated administration?
I find it highly unethical that the ethics committee is basing its so-called investigation of Rangel on media hype and digging; kind of funny, because I’d be willing to bet that most of our elected officials have one or more home; have one or more business connections.
If they Democrats are worried about this splitting the party, the Republicans should be petrified with fear. We do recognize where this is coming from. The same people who tried to have Clinton impeached. We over understand the situation. That does not mean that so-called "blue dog Democrats" are not on our radar, but character assassination is the province of the Republican party. In either case, both parties will be walking on eggs if harm politically, socially, financially or emotionally comes to Congressman Rangel. WE ARE WATCHING AND REGISTERING. Consider the consequences.
In case you missed my point, I reiterate, the blatant difference is that both Charlie Rangel and Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. were and are Black.
Yes, I said it! It’s racist b.s.
Charlie has apartments that are under market value? When did he purchase them? How can you tell when the New York market, particularly in Manhattan, and especially in Harlem, has been so jacked up and over inflated over the past ten years that no one really knows what the market it.
Since the ethics committee didn’t deal with Byrd, or any of the other characters who have committed egregious acts against America, Republican and Democrat, they get a vote of no confidence from me.
I would love to know what the Ethics Committee’s standard, or code of ethics consists of. Share them with the world, so we can see if they are truly equitable. List them so we can all see them. Then I think we should have full disclosure as to where each member of the ethics committee stands or falls along that criteria. Additionally, who are their contributors? How did they get elected? Who’s in their closet? What’s their track record? If they can’t stand the litmus test, they shouldn’t serve on the committee.
Biblically speaking, he or she who is without sin can cast the first stone.
Otherwise, HANDS OFF CHARLIE RANGEL!!!!
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLESSED
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Gloria Dulan-Wilson Blog/ ECLECTICALLY BLACK NEWS
For Eclectic Black People
VIP: Views . Interests . Perspectives
7.29.2010
7.26.2010
CONTACT YOUR SENATORS TO TAKE ACTION ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROPOSALS
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I just received this communique from The Enterprise Foundation. I'm passing it on to you. We've got to unify our efforts to make sure we continue to have affordable homes, or we'll all be sidewalk sitters.
Dear Gloria ,
ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT!!!
Please call or e-mail your Senators TODAY to tell him/her to take immediate action on four major affordable housing and community development proposals that are in jeopardy.
Make Your Voice Heard Now!
1. Call the Capitol switchboard 888-460-0813 and ask for your Senators' office.
Urge your Senator take immediate action on four major housing provisions that are in jeopardy
2. If you know the DC-based tax and/or housing staffer for your Senator, call or e-mail him/her directly.
3. Make your case using the suggested talking points below.
4. Encourage partner organizations and groups in your network to do the same.
Background
On July 20, the Senate voted to advance the unemployment insurance extension in H.R. 4213 but in doing so, dropped the following important affordable housing and community development proposals from the bill:
1. Extending the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (Housing Credit) 9 percent exchange program;
2. Providing $1 billion for an initial capitalization for the National Housing Trust Fund and $65 million
in project-based assistance for trust fund units
3. Extending the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program and allowing the NMTC to be taken against
alternative minimum tax liability; and
4. Also stalled, but in a different bill, is the five-year Housing Credit carryback
All of these proposals are at risk of being abandoned unless Senators hear from their constituents. Please contact your Senators TODAY!
Emphasize these programs create JOBS!
Why Immediate Action on these Provisions is Needed
1. An extension of the Housing Credit exchange is needed because:
* The Housing Credit investment market remains depressed, and many state agency-approved projects
are sidelined pending congressional action to extend the exchange program.
* According to estimates by the National Association of Home Builders, if extended, projects associated
with the exchange program will yield approximately 44,000 jobs nationwide in 2011, in addition to
generating millions in new wages, business income, and taxes.
2. Funding for the National Housing Trust Fund is needed because
* In the United States today, there are only 37 rental homes available and affordable for every 100
households with incomes below 30 percent of their area median.
* A scarcity of housing that the poorest families can afford is the principal cause of homelessness
in the United States.
* Providing funding for the National Housing Trust Fund will address this vital affordable housing need
while creating tens of thousands of new jobs.
3. An extension of the NMTC is needed because:
* The NMTC expired at the end of last year, and Congress needs to act to ensure the program can
continue to provide economic opportunity for low-income communities throughout the nation.
* If does not, the program will come to an abrupt halt, adversely impacting community development
and job creation efforts across the country.
* Since its inception, more than $16 billion in private capital has been raised to support more
than 15,000 businesses, helping to develop or rehabilitate over 68 million square feet of real estate,
and create more than 300,000 jobs in low-income communities and targeted for low-income populations.
4. A five-year Housing Credit carryback is needed because:
* Unlike other tax credits, the Housing Credit was particularly hard hit when Fannie Mae and Freddie
Mac stopped investing-they represented about 40 percent of the annual investment.
* The five-year carry back will bring more investment back into the market (as much as $5 billion)
to create much needed affordable housing and jobs.
As with all the information I've sent you previously, this must be shared and acted upon. We don't have the leisure of waiting to see what's going to happen. While we languish, the devil (as they say) is busy. They want to keep the status quo. We can't afford not to take action.
Please print, publish, pass it on and participate by contacting your congressional officials.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I just received this communique from The Enterprise Foundation. I'm passing it on to you. We've got to unify our efforts to make sure we continue to have affordable homes, or we'll all be sidewalk sitters.
Dear Gloria ,
ALERT ALERT ALERT ALERT!!!
Please call or e-mail your Senators TODAY to tell him/her to take immediate action on four major affordable housing and community development proposals that are in jeopardy.
Make Your Voice Heard Now!
1. Call the Capitol switchboard 888-460-0813 and ask for your Senators' office.
Urge your Senator take immediate action on four major housing provisions that are in jeopardy
2. If you know the DC-based tax and/or housing staffer for your Senator, call or e-mail him/her directly.
3. Make your case using the suggested talking points below.
4. Encourage partner organizations and groups in your network to do the same.
Background
On July 20, the Senate voted to advance the unemployment insurance extension in H.R. 4213 but in doing so, dropped the following important affordable housing and community development proposals from the bill:
1. Extending the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (Housing Credit) 9 percent exchange program;
2. Providing $1 billion for an initial capitalization for the National Housing Trust Fund and $65 million
in project-based assistance for trust fund units
3. Extending the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program and allowing the NMTC to be taken against
alternative minimum tax liability; and
4. Also stalled, but in a different bill, is the five-year Housing Credit carryback
All of these proposals are at risk of being abandoned unless Senators hear from their constituents. Please contact your Senators TODAY!
Emphasize these programs create JOBS!
Why Immediate Action on these Provisions is Needed
1. An extension of the Housing Credit exchange is needed because:
* The Housing Credit investment market remains depressed, and many state agency-approved projects
are sidelined pending congressional action to extend the exchange program.
* According to estimates by the National Association of Home Builders, if extended, projects associated
with the exchange program will yield approximately 44,000 jobs nationwide in 2011, in addition to
generating millions in new wages, business income, and taxes.
2. Funding for the National Housing Trust Fund is needed because
* In the United States today, there are only 37 rental homes available and affordable for every 100
households with incomes below 30 percent of their area median.
* A scarcity of housing that the poorest families can afford is the principal cause of homelessness
in the United States.
* Providing funding for the National Housing Trust Fund will address this vital affordable housing need
while creating tens of thousands of new jobs.
3. An extension of the NMTC is needed because:
* The NMTC expired at the end of last year, and Congress needs to act to ensure the program can
continue to provide economic opportunity for low-income communities throughout the nation.
* If does not, the program will come to an abrupt halt, adversely impacting community development
and job creation efforts across the country.
* Since its inception, more than $16 billion in private capital has been raised to support more
than 15,000 businesses, helping to develop or rehabilitate over 68 million square feet of real estate,
and create more than 300,000 jobs in low-income communities and targeted for low-income populations.
4. A five-year Housing Credit carryback is needed because:
* Unlike other tax credits, the Housing Credit was particularly hard hit when Fannie Mae and Freddie
Mac stopped investing-they represented about 40 percent of the annual investment.
* The five-year carry back will bring more investment back into the market (as much as $5 billion)
to create much needed affordable housing and jobs.
As with all the information I've sent you previously, this must be shared and acted upon. We don't have the leisure of waiting to see what's going to happen. While we languish, the devil (as they say) is busy. They want to keep the status quo. We can't afford not to take action.
Please print, publish, pass it on and participate by contacting your congressional officials.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
NACA SAVE THE DREAM 7-DAY MARATHON IN D.C. July 23-July 30
by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
NACA’S SAVE-THE-DREAM EVENT FREE IN WASHINGTON D.C. NEW YORKERS KNOW HOW TO GET TO D.C.
If your home is under threat of foreclosure or auction, take your paperwork, and get there.
They are open 24/7 for the rest of the week!!!
As you know, I am an advocate for NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, and am working to bring a branch to Brooklyn. I have made several referrals to NACA in Newark, because, try as they might, many of our local organizations don't have the resources to resolve the problems of families in crises.
There have been several interim NACA workshops in Brooklyn and Queens to alleviate some of the pressures of foreclosures in a hostile real estate and banking environment, that has push New Yorkers to a posture of having one foot in their homes and the other in the street.
At present, the closest NACA center is in Newark, NJ. I am hoping to announce soon that Brooklyn has finally obtained its own branch.
In the interim, Bruce Marks, founder of NACA continues to take NACA's show on the road throughout the US trying to help those families who are facing dire straits as a result of predatory lending practices; collateralizing and securitizing our mortgages and selling them to foreign investors, and an economic downturn that would have become a massive sinkhole had it not been for President Barack Obama.
NACA is in DC this week! This is good news for those of use on the Eastern Seaboard, because, if you missed them at Javits in December, at Boys and Girls High in January, at the Bed-Stuy Multi-Services Center in March and May, or in Atlantic City in May, you can definitely get to DC.
New Yorkers are great for making DC Runs. So this is a piece of cake for us.
NACA’S SAVE-THE-DREAM EVENT ALL SERVICES ARE FREE – SAVE YOUR HOME! WASHINGTON, D.C. – D.C. CONVENTION CTR Friday July 23 rd thru Friday 30 th – 24hrs a day! If you are in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Virginia, you can take advantage of this opportunity to have your mortgage permanently restructured so that you no longer have to chose between food and a roof over your head.
DC is just 4 hours from NYC by Car, bus or train. Don't sit here and blow an opportunity to save your home. Get your papers together and be there. They are offering services 24 hours a day until Friday, July 30.
When & Where
All Day & All Night Washington D.C. D.C Convention Ctr 801 Mount Vernon Place N.W
Washington, D.C.
Friday July 23 through Friday July 30th 24 Hours Per Day
200 Straight Hours
Who Should Attend
Anyone with an unaffordable mortgage who lives in the house and does not own another house.
What to Bring
Necessary (most recent): Verification of Income
o Employed (30 days paystubs)
o Self-Employed (six months bank statements)
Optional (bring if possible):
Mortgage statement
Property Tax statement
Property Insurance statement
Not Based on: Mortgage status (i.e. current, late or foreclosure eligible) Employed or Unemployed Property value or location (not limited) Income (not limited)
Three step process:
If you completed any of these prior to the event, skip that step and go directly to the next. 1. Orientation
2. Counseling Session (submission to lender)
3. Meet your Lender (most lenders & investors will be at the event and we work with everyone)
Lenders and Investors will have hundreds of staff available to restructure loans the same day!
Testimony from One Of Many Dreams Saved:
Homeowner Carlos and Caitlyn Pavon of Silver Spring Maryland is just one of many thousands of examples. Her interest rate went from 8% to 2% for the life of the loan. They are saving $965 a month. “NACA not only stopped the sale of our home, but they negotiated a 2% interest rate. That means we are saving $965 a month. Thank you NACA for helping us save our home,” says Carlos Pavon
NACA, Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America is a non-profit
HUD Certified organization that is the largest and most effective in restructuring mortgages to an affordable payment.
NACA has assisted homeowners in saving over $500/month and some over 1,000/month by permanently reducing the interest rate to as low as 2% and, if necessary, reducing the principal.
NACA has legally binding contracts with all the major lenders and investors to achieve permanent affordable solutions for many thousands of homeowners
Register at www.naca.com.
Walk-ins are Welcome!
Doors open July 23rd at 9:00 a.m. & close July 30th at 8:00 p.m. –
Over 200 Hours KEEP YOUR HOME – ALL SERVICES ARE FREE!
EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT!
NACA has been instrumental in saving thousands of homes over the past 20 years, as a result of having negotiated, on their own, with banks and lending institutions who have set aside millions of dollars to rectify egregious transgressions against low and moderate income families who wanted to become home owners. In fact, there have been virtually no defaults or delinquencies on the mortgages arranged by NACA for these home buyers.
There is word that the funds NACA has had at its disposal may be threatened, unless we, the citizens who are in dire need of their services, speak out in their behalf, and alert President Obama and the Treasury to leave NACA intact. In fact, they should be increasing their funding, because of their effectiveness, and because the problem still exists, and we still need their help.
Also, word is that Chase Bank has been uncooperative in rectifying the over burdened mortgages. If the banks, who are at the center of the problem, are not willing to cooperate, it it may be necessary to send a clear signal that Americans are fed up with those who can so callously ignore their needs, sitting in the comforts of their homes, while ours are under threat.
There is a statement that banks don't want to own our homes. If that is the case, why are they continuing to foreclose on them, giving families the run around, instead of being cooperative in rectifying the situation. This is the reason NACA's services are essential. They are a pit bull when it comes to making sure we don't get ripped off.
In a country that calls itself the land of the free and the home of the brave; in a world where the basic laws of nature (and rights of humans?) is food, clothing and shelter, it always calls to question whether the ones who would deprive you of those basic needs could be considered human or humane. There are more commercials on TV for saving deprived animals than there are for those who are under threat of losing their homes.
It has to be the most terrifying thing in the world, to consider the possibility of being rendered homeless because of unscrupulous dealings within the real estate and banking industry -- peopled by individuals whose motivation is based on turning a buck, collecting a commission - regardless of the hardship and peril it visits on so many families.
You can easily go on line and see the good NACA has done and continued to do in the nearly 25 years it's been in existence. It joined forces with HUD obstensibly to be able to expand what they do, because America was in dire need. I hope that the affiliation with HUD does not handicap what NACA is able to do.
Speak out now. Make sure they are aware that NACA knows best. Allow them to do what they do best - save homes, and help families obtain homes. To let the banks make the decisions about how they will "help" the people is like putting the fox in charge of the hen house. It just won't get done. They'll back end everything, and you'll end up owing more than when you walked in the door. It's not in their DNA.
Write the President, write your congressional representative; write NACA, and make sure that they continue to be here, continue to have the requisite funding and are effective for the next 25 years.
By the way, the NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE is celebrating its 100th Anniversary. They and NACA will both be at the Washington Convention Center at the same time. What an opportunity for synchronicity and collaboration.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
NACA’S SAVE-THE-DREAM EVENT FREE IN WASHINGTON D.C. NEW YORKERS KNOW HOW TO GET TO D.C.
If your home is under threat of foreclosure or auction, take your paperwork, and get there.
They are open 24/7 for the rest of the week!!!
As you know, I am an advocate for NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, and am working to bring a branch to Brooklyn. I have made several referrals to NACA in Newark, because, try as they might, many of our local organizations don't have the resources to resolve the problems of families in crises.
There have been several interim NACA workshops in Brooklyn and Queens to alleviate some of the pressures of foreclosures in a hostile real estate and banking environment, that has push New Yorkers to a posture of having one foot in their homes and the other in the street.
At present, the closest NACA center is in Newark, NJ. I am hoping to announce soon that Brooklyn has finally obtained its own branch.
In the interim, Bruce Marks, founder of NACA continues to take NACA's show on the road throughout the US trying to help those families who are facing dire straits as a result of predatory lending practices; collateralizing and securitizing our mortgages and selling them to foreign investors, and an economic downturn that would have become a massive sinkhole had it not been for President Barack Obama.
NACA is in DC this week! This is good news for those of use on the Eastern Seaboard, because, if you missed them at Javits in December, at Boys and Girls High in January, at the Bed-Stuy Multi-Services Center in March and May, or in Atlantic City in May, you can definitely get to DC.
New Yorkers are great for making DC Runs. So this is a piece of cake for us.
NACA’S SAVE-THE-DREAM EVENT ALL SERVICES ARE FREE – SAVE YOUR HOME! WASHINGTON, D.C. – D.C. CONVENTION CTR Friday July 23 rd thru Friday 30 th – 24hrs a day! If you are in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Virginia, you can take advantage of this opportunity to have your mortgage permanently restructured so that you no longer have to chose between food and a roof over your head.
DC is just 4 hours from NYC by Car, bus or train. Don't sit here and blow an opportunity to save your home. Get your papers together and be there. They are offering services 24 hours a day until Friday, July 30.
When & Where
All Day & All Night Washington D.C. D.C Convention Ctr 801 Mount Vernon Place N.W
Washington, D.C.
Friday July 23 through Friday July 30th 24 Hours Per Day
200 Straight Hours
Who Should Attend
Anyone with an unaffordable mortgage who lives in the house and does not own another house.
What to Bring
Necessary (most recent): Verification of Income
o Employed (30 days paystubs)
o Self-Employed (six months bank statements)
Optional (bring if possible):
Mortgage statement
Property Tax statement
Property Insurance statement
Not Based on: Mortgage status (i.e. current, late or foreclosure eligible) Employed or Unemployed Property value or location (not limited) Income (not limited)
Three step process:
If you completed any of these prior to the event, skip that step and go directly to the next. 1. Orientation
2. Counseling Session (submission to lender)
3. Meet your Lender (most lenders & investors will be at the event and we work with everyone)
Lenders and Investors will have hundreds of staff available to restructure loans the same day!
Testimony from One Of Many Dreams Saved:
Homeowner Carlos and Caitlyn Pavon of Silver Spring Maryland is just one of many thousands of examples. Her interest rate went from 8% to 2% for the life of the loan. They are saving $965 a month. “NACA not only stopped the sale of our home, but they negotiated a 2% interest rate. That means we are saving $965 a month. Thank you NACA for helping us save our home,” says Carlos Pavon
NACA, Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America is a non-profit
HUD Certified organization that is the largest and most effective in restructuring mortgages to an affordable payment.
NACA has assisted homeowners in saving over $500/month and some over 1,000/month by permanently reducing the interest rate to as low as 2% and, if necessary, reducing the principal.
NACA has legally binding contracts with all the major lenders and investors to achieve permanent affordable solutions for many thousands of homeowners
Register at www.naca.com.
Walk-ins are Welcome!
Doors open July 23rd at 9:00 a.m. & close July 30th at 8:00 p.m. –
Over 200 Hours KEEP YOUR HOME – ALL SERVICES ARE FREE!
EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT!
NACA has been instrumental in saving thousands of homes over the past 20 years, as a result of having negotiated, on their own, with banks and lending institutions who have set aside millions of dollars to rectify egregious transgressions against low and moderate income families who wanted to become home owners. In fact, there have been virtually no defaults or delinquencies on the mortgages arranged by NACA for these home buyers.
There is word that the funds NACA has had at its disposal may be threatened, unless we, the citizens who are in dire need of their services, speak out in their behalf, and alert President Obama and the Treasury to leave NACA intact. In fact, they should be increasing their funding, because of their effectiveness, and because the problem still exists, and we still need their help.
Also, word is that Chase Bank has been uncooperative in rectifying the over burdened mortgages. If the banks, who are at the center of the problem, are not willing to cooperate, it it may be necessary to send a clear signal that Americans are fed up with those who can so callously ignore their needs, sitting in the comforts of their homes, while ours are under threat.
There is a statement that banks don't want to own our homes. If that is the case, why are they continuing to foreclose on them, giving families the run around, instead of being cooperative in rectifying the situation. This is the reason NACA's services are essential. They are a pit bull when it comes to making sure we don't get ripped off.
In a country that calls itself the land of the free and the home of the brave; in a world where the basic laws of nature (and rights of humans?) is food, clothing and shelter, it always calls to question whether the ones who would deprive you of those basic needs could be considered human or humane. There are more commercials on TV for saving deprived animals than there are for those who are under threat of losing their homes.
It has to be the most terrifying thing in the world, to consider the possibility of being rendered homeless because of unscrupulous dealings within the real estate and banking industry -- peopled by individuals whose motivation is based on turning a buck, collecting a commission - regardless of the hardship and peril it visits on so many families.
You can easily go on line and see the good NACA has done and continued to do in the nearly 25 years it's been in existence. It joined forces with HUD obstensibly to be able to expand what they do, because America was in dire need. I hope that the affiliation with HUD does not handicap what NACA is able to do.
Speak out now. Make sure they are aware that NACA knows best. Allow them to do what they do best - save homes, and help families obtain homes. To let the banks make the decisions about how they will "help" the people is like putting the fox in charge of the hen house. It just won't get done. They'll back end everything, and you'll end up owing more than when you walked in the door. It's not in their DNA.
Write the President, write your congressional representative; write NACA, and make sure that they continue to be here, continue to have the requisite funding and are effective for the next 25 years.
By the way, the NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE is celebrating its 100th Anniversary. They and NACA will both be at the Washington Convention Center at the same time. What an opportunity for synchronicity and collaboration.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Shirley Sherrod: My Response to Commentary on Controversy
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
On Sun, Jul 25, 2010 at 5:33 PM, this message was forwarded to me from one of the BlackList Rise Up Net contributors. He was forwarding to me an email he received on Friday, 7/24/2010 1:16:04 AM Eastern Daylight Savings Time, and his response; to wit:
“In New York City, for example, an average of 20 people for every 100,000 residents in the Upper East Side (a wealthy area where Mayor Bloomberg lives) were arrested for misdemeanor marijuana charges in 2007-2009. In that same period, the arrest rate for the same offense was 3,109 people for every 100,000 residents in Brownsville, Brooklyn, a neighborhood that is 75% African-American.” -jypzzz
“This, dear friends, is the real point. The harsh and swift judgment Mrs Sharrod received (From her own people) is culturally imbedded. It is what we see every day in our criminal justice system and most prominently in the War on Drugs/Black men! No white man or women would have been treated so harshly. "Plausible denial" (the white man's get out of jail free card) is not something that is available to black people! Not that Mrs. Sharrod had anything to deny, but it wouldn't have mattered. Just a thought to add to a well reasoned essay. mike“
Below are my comments on the Shirley Sherrod situation:
DearMcFad3: This is one of those times when I totally agree with you. A great many of us are prone to rush to judgment when it comes to our own people and a matter of their guilt or innocence. That is indeed something that we have to deal with - the evil in our own eye when we look at each other.
I do, however, want to point out, just for the record, that Ms. Sherrod was libeled, slandered. And in journalism, there are (or were) laws against libel that really should cause Breitbart some serious financial damage. When he went to all the trouble to take excerpts from Ms. Sherrod's speech, and present it as though it was the sum total of everything she had said, it was libelous and slanderous. It is the highest (read lowest) form of defamation of character. It really boils down to an attempt to sully Ms. Sherrod.
Yes, there may have been a rush to judgment. However, I daresay, given the presentation in the original format, it would have been difficult to have to come to any other conclusion. And as duplicitious as the mainstream is when it comes to trying to vilify us, I don't think many of us (including yours truly - who doesn't trust them any further than I can throw them), would have suspected them of having the temerity and the gall to present a tape that was so doctored and distorted.
But that, folks, is what Macchiavelli's "The Prince" called the big lie. It is a lie so big, and so bold, and so outrageous, that most reasonable, regular people could not imagine someone going to such an extent to do so. Why would they? What would they get out of it? So it must be true? Right? But we have been victims of the big lie all our lives...you know the ones - we're inferior, Black people are 3/5's human, and so on and so forth.
So when the clip was presented of Ms. Sherrod allegedly making a racist statement, and it's in video, and it's her, it was difficult for someone to say - oh, wait a minute, could this be a doctored tape put together to make us jump down this poor Black woman's throat and show that we don't know how to see through a set up? We, as usual, are trying to maintain the "golden rule of do unto others." I.e., if we wanted mainstream to stop discriminating against us, how then could we continue to employ some one at the federal level, who by her own words, appears to be practicing reverse discrimination? So of course the next logical move was to summarily and dramatically terminate her; making sure the world knows that we, at least, are dealing evenhandedly with wrong doers.
Breitbart must have thought this was a tremendous joke. President Obama, Ben Jealous, the head of the Department of Agriculture, and a large number of Blacks and whites had all been fooled by his bogus video. What a lark!! Of course Ms. Sherrod, who had been doing an excellent job for decades found herself in a maelstrom of controversy.
The positive thing, however, was that when the truth came to light, profuse apologies were offered all around. The head of the Dept. of Agriculture offered her her position back. But, as she stated on The View, "I don't know if I want to go back to that department. I think, given the circumstances, I need to be in another department, maybe even another division of the government."
Now, down to the real nitty-gritty: What else have we learned from this? As our Indian relatives have told us for hundreds of years "white man speak with forked tongue." And in Breitbart's case, this is patently true. Secondly, no matter how big a stack of Bibles they swear on, we must always do our own due diligence before we accept what they say as true. (So, for those of you who have been following the actions and activities of the "Tea Party" you already know they are bogus, racist, and a throwback to the bad old days).
As a kid in Oklahoma City, it was taught that the more the mainstream media spent vilifying a Black person, the more likely he or she must be doing something right. I was in the 4th grade at the time. It is as true now, as it was them. So when you read hostile headlines about President Obama in the Post, Daily News, New York Times, etc., or Congressman Charlie Rangel, David Paterson, or Kanye West, or whomever, consider the source. They have yet to prove to me to be the bastion of truth and honesty when it comes to us and our affairs.
The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) which represents 220 Black Newspapers nationwide, are dedicated to keeping Black people informed and abreast of issues that directly affect us. I strongly suggest you maintain a subscription to at least one of them. And of course, thank goodness for The BlackList, and other websites that are devoted to things Black people need to know.
Soooooooo, what have we learned from this, and what will we teach our people? There is an element of mean-spirited, negative, evil, low-lifes, who will spend every waking minute in the pursuit of racism, racial hatred, and pitting people against each other. They are not to be trusted.
You should be able to smell them from far off. When you read them, when they come on the news and spout stats; when they are on their talk radio shows and, the ersatz religious and news TV shows, going under the guise of legitimacy, while spouting invectives against you, the President, or anyone else who is trying to make sure we have our fair share; you should now be able to point your finger at them, look at them with a wise and knowing eye of wisdom, and say in a loud voice - YOU ARE A LIAR, back up and back off!!! (in church they would say "the devil's a liar"; or "get thee behind me satan" - it works the same way).
Bottom line then is this: WE WON'T BE FOOLED AGAIN - EVER!
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
On Sun, Jul 25, 2010 at 5:33 PM, this message was forwarded to me from one of the BlackList Rise Up Net contributors. He was forwarding to me an email he received on Friday, 7/24/2010 1:16:04 AM Eastern Daylight Savings Time, and his response; to wit:
“In New York City, for example, an average of 20 people for every 100,000 residents in the Upper East Side (a wealthy area where Mayor Bloomberg lives) were arrested for misdemeanor marijuana charges in 2007-2009. In that same period, the arrest rate for the same offense was 3,109 people for every 100,000 residents in Brownsville, Brooklyn, a neighborhood that is 75% African-American.” -jypzzz
“This, dear friends, is the real point. The harsh and swift judgment Mrs Sharrod received (From her own people) is culturally imbedded. It is what we see every day in our criminal justice system and most prominently in the War on Drugs/Black men! No white man or women would have been treated so harshly. "Plausible denial" (the white man's get out of jail free card) is not something that is available to black people! Not that Mrs. Sharrod had anything to deny, but it wouldn't have mattered. Just a thought to add to a well reasoned essay. mike“
Below are my comments on the Shirley Sherrod situation:
DearMcFad3: This is one of those times when I totally agree with you. A great many of us are prone to rush to judgment when it comes to our own people and a matter of their guilt or innocence. That is indeed something that we have to deal with - the evil in our own eye when we look at each other.
I do, however, want to point out, just for the record, that Ms. Sherrod was libeled, slandered. And in journalism, there are (or were) laws against libel that really should cause Breitbart some serious financial damage. When he went to all the trouble to take excerpts from Ms. Sherrod's speech, and present it as though it was the sum total of everything she had said, it was libelous and slanderous. It is the highest (read lowest) form of defamation of character. It really boils down to an attempt to sully Ms. Sherrod.
Yes, there may have been a rush to judgment. However, I daresay, given the presentation in the original format, it would have been difficult to have to come to any other conclusion. And as duplicitious as the mainstream is when it comes to trying to vilify us, I don't think many of us (including yours truly - who doesn't trust them any further than I can throw them), would have suspected them of having the temerity and the gall to present a tape that was so doctored and distorted.
But that, folks, is what Macchiavelli's "The Prince" called the big lie. It is a lie so big, and so bold, and so outrageous, that most reasonable, regular people could not imagine someone going to such an extent to do so. Why would they? What would they get out of it? So it must be true? Right? But we have been victims of the big lie all our lives...you know the ones - we're inferior, Black people are 3/5's human, and so on and so forth.
So when the clip was presented of Ms. Sherrod allegedly making a racist statement, and it's in video, and it's her, it was difficult for someone to say - oh, wait a minute, could this be a doctored tape put together to make us jump down this poor Black woman's throat and show that we don't know how to see through a set up? We, as usual, are trying to maintain the "golden rule of do unto others." I.e., if we wanted mainstream to stop discriminating against us, how then could we continue to employ some one at the federal level, who by her own words, appears to be practicing reverse discrimination? So of course the next logical move was to summarily and dramatically terminate her; making sure the world knows that we, at least, are dealing evenhandedly with wrong doers.
Breitbart must have thought this was a tremendous joke. President Obama, Ben Jealous, the head of the Department of Agriculture, and a large number of Blacks and whites had all been fooled by his bogus video. What a lark!! Of course Ms. Sherrod, who had been doing an excellent job for decades found herself in a maelstrom of controversy.
The positive thing, however, was that when the truth came to light, profuse apologies were offered all around. The head of the Dept. of Agriculture offered her her position back. But, as she stated on The View, "I don't know if I want to go back to that department. I think, given the circumstances, I need to be in another department, maybe even another division of the government."
Now, down to the real nitty-gritty: What else have we learned from this? As our Indian relatives have told us for hundreds of years "white man speak with forked tongue." And in Breitbart's case, this is patently true. Secondly, no matter how big a stack of Bibles they swear on, we must always do our own due diligence before we accept what they say as true. (So, for those of you who have been following the actions and activities of the "Tea Party" you already know they are bogus, racist, and a throwback to the bad old days).
As a kid in Oklahoma City, it was taught that the more the mainstream media spent vilifying a Black person, the more likely he or she must be doing something right. I was in the 4th grade at the time. It is as true now, as it was them. So when you read hostile headlines about President Obama in the Post, Daily News, New York Times, etc., or Congressman Charlie Rangel, David Paterson, or Kanye West, or whomever, consider the source. They have yet to prove to me to be the bastion of truth and honesty when it comes to us and our affairs.
The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) which represents 220 Black Newspapers nationwide, are dedicated to keeping Black people informed and abreast of issues that directly affect us. I strongly suggest you maintain a subscription to at least one of them. And of course, thank goodness for The BlackList, and other websites that are devoted to things Black people need to know.
Soooooooo, what have we learned from this, and what will we teach our people? There is an element of mean-spirited, negative, evil, low-lifes, who will spend every waking minute in the pursuit of racism, racial hatred, and pitting people against each other. They are not to be trusted.
You should be able to smell them from far off. When you read them, when they come on the news and spout stats; when they are on their talk radio shows and, the ersatz religious and news TV shows, going under the guise of legitimacy, while spouting invectives against you, the President, or anyone else who is trying to make sure we have our fair share; you should now be able to point your finger at them, look at them with a wise and knowing eye of wisdom, and say in a loud voice - YOU ARE A LIAR, back up and back off!!! (in church they would say "the devil's a liar"; or "get thee behind me satan" - it works the same way).
Bottom line then is this: WE WON'T BE FOOLED AGAIN - EVER!
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
7.23.2010
“Governor David Paterson Signs First New York State MWBE Bill into Law” PART II
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Previously I heralded Governor David Paterson’s making history by signing the first ever Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) into law in the State of New York.
In case you thought this happened over night, let me assure you this was decades in the making. In fact, the backstory to the passing of this MWBE Bill into law has many “sheroes”* and heroes (*got that term from Rev. Jesse Jackson).
Needless to say, this legislation has been on the governor’s radar for quite some time. Long before he became Governor, in fact, while he was still a senator, David Paterson was concerned about the disparities between mainstream contractors and minority contractors, and made concerted efforts to mitigate the problem. Of course, while he was diligent, the political will of the incumbent “leaders” were neither interested or supportive. So all compliance was relegated to low goals and so called “good faith efforts.”
As Lt. Governor, Paterson traveled throughout the state meeting with minority business organizations and community groups about the lack of inclusion in construction projects, bonding inequities, and being left out of the bids for contracts being let by the state. At the time he pledged to work with them to change the dynamics. Several meetings were held in Brooklyn, which has a fairly large base of Black-owned and operated businesses, many of which are generally relegated to the status of sub-contractor, as opposed to that of prime contractor.
According to Assemblywoman Crystal Beavers, who spoke at the ceremony, “I agree with Darryl Towns, this is the day to give God the glory, because without Him we could not do this on our own. And I mean that. So I give God the glory.”
Beavers stated that the bill would never have seen the light of day, let alone been passed, had it not been for Paterson’s leadership. “It always takes somebody at the leadership level to make things happen. I mean we all work hard under them, but the leaders really make things happen. We really have to give our governor a lot of credit. When I first came to the State Assembly there was no Committee on Oversight of Minority and Women Owned Businesses. That was a new position that was created by the speaker, because we had Darryl Towns, and at the time Clarence Norman was still an assembly member. We needed this position, because we really needed strengthen section 15A, not just renew the sunset.”
Beavers continued enthusiastically: “In order to do that we needed some formal organization that would work continuously on just that issue. And we have done just that. So I am very proud of this thing. I think it’s not only great for the newness of Section 15A, but it’s something good for the groundbreaking legislation that Queen Mother (Ruth Thompson) and I have sent to the Assembly to give opportunities to minorities and women. We’re called the Empire State but sometimes we have to look at other states to see what they’re doing; and other states are going to look at us to see what we’re doing as well.” Prior to being elected to the Assembly, Beavers was a member of Grass Roots, an activist organization in western NY. She well understands the dynamics of activism, coalition-formation and staying the course in bringing a concept to fruition.
As a leader, Governor Paterson has made good on his promise. In June 2008, Governor Paterson’s Executive Order No. 10 established the Task Force on Minority and Women Business Enterprises. Key to the success of that Task Force were Michael Jones-Bey, Executive Director of Empire State Development’s Minority & Women’s Business Development; and Paul T. Williams Jr., the Executive Director of the Dormitory Authority, (DASNY) who served as the Task Force Chairman.
Integrally involved from the very beginning was State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson (affectionately known as The Queen Mother), whose office played a pivotal role in supporting the efforts to research and compile the necessary information in formulating a bill that would be comprehensive, equitable, and as tamper proof as possible.
Paterson mused, as he prepared to sign the Bills, “I love that in the top 200 businesses in Black Enterprise Magazine, New York has never finished higher than eighth on the list. Even though our population exceeds states like South Carolina - ahead of New York; Georgia - ahead of New York; Alabama - ahead of New York. Would you believe that? In the mid-60’s, in terms of procurement, Alabama won a lot of contracts - won by Congressman Savage - [they] placed number six. New York is now going to soar right past all those states!”
His enthusiasm was indeed contagious, as the audience exploded in applause at the concept of now finally having the wherewithal to level the playing field, making contracting opportunities accessible to all.
According to a report from Governor Paterson’s office, as a result of his initial Executive Order and the work of the Task Force, MWBE participation has already quadrupled. The firms that are involved with investment banking and the issuance of debt went from 4.2 percent MWBE in 2007 to 23.9 percent. Under Governor Paterson's leadership, minority and women firms have yielded an increase of $162 million in revenue from prior year levels. And thirteen percent of stimulus transportation projects have gone to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises – for a total of $146 million dollars and an estimated 3,500 jobs created or saved.
Given the momentum already established, those numbers should more than double by this time next year. However, it definitely remains for the rest of the community, current and future MWBEs, and those looking to start their own businesses, to learn everything they can, do their due diligence, step up to the plate, and keep the ball rolling (how do you like that for a motivational rah-rah speech?).
But you don’t have to take my word for it. What follows are some commentaries from stake holders, advocates and activists who have been in the eye of the storm from the beginning. Their input not only gives texture to the magnitude of this bill, but, hopefully, informs us of what we need to do to make sure it succeeds and has the far reaching benefits for which it was intended -- if you get my drift. So this is not only what it means to them, but what it means for you as well:
I am going to start with Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, and am quoting her concluding statements first, because they set the tone for the mindset and conscientiousness with which we have to approach the implementation of this legislation:
STATE SENATOR RUTH HASSELL-THOMPSON:
“Read this! Read what the law says! Read what the law says!!! We talk about reading is fundamental, but we don’t really read. These legislative pieces are very important. These are our declarations of independence. This is our declaration that says this gives us the right to enter the market on an equal footing with anybody else. And so we are declaring that ’you free now!”(spoken tongue in cheek street venacular). Until you have economic freedom, you’re not free. But you’re free now. But you know what happens with freedom -- freedom is not free. I made a promise to you. I kept it. Now you have to keep a promise to yourself. That if you were given the opportunity, that you would do what you need to do.”
“These bills intend to bring our State procurement process into the 21st Century by removing barriers that have historically prevented women and persons of color from reaching full economic parity with respect to contracting opportunities in this State. By the year 2040 more than 50% of the population of New York State will be made up of what are termed ‘minority groups.’
“Large corporations have already sought to prepare for this eventuality by engaging in a process known as 'Supplier Diversity.' New York State has lagged behind even the private sector with respect to its contract expenditures for Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (MWBEs). The four bill package, also known as the New York State Business Diversity Act, ensures that the State's fiduciary-controlled entities, public authorities and agencies have developed and codified a strategy aimed at inclusion, and meaningful participation of MWBEs across New York State. These bills go a long way to ensure that best-practices are institutionalized and that contracting opportunities are readily available for qualified MWBEs.”
In other words, now that the excuse of no opportunity, or no help, or no law is no longer relevant, we really do have to put our money (time, energy, creativity, talent, skills, etc.) where our mouths are.
To get a sense of what the feelings were around the room upon the signing of the Bill into law, I asked the following: “How do you feel about the new law?” And, “Since the Governor is not going to be here after January, do you have a concern? Are we in safe waters? Are we going to see a reversal, which is what Pataki did when he got in office? And what Giuliani did in New York City when he got in. Are we looking at it being a victory for now, only to find it overturned? What’s our safeguard?”
JOSEPH ARGRETTE: President and CEO JMA Concrete Construction Co., who received his MWBE status early on, and has been part of the struggle for parity for minority contractors responded:
“Well this is historical for New York for both women and minorities in business and in construction. As you know, I’ve been around and supporting Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson for many years, when she was the executive director of the WMCA. This is a great day. It is now a law. We’ve got to come back to the table and make it work.”
BILL HOWELL businessman, entrepreneur, minority contractor and advocate for MWBEs:
“We’ve been around this for a while. We’ve seen all the tricks in the book. We already have history. From the late sixties through the early seventies. And we see this as a lot of hard work and commitment and just faith, and wonderful people working together, being totally together to make this come to reality. And today is the fruition of tremendous efforts over many, many years, by a lot of different people. This young man here from the National Minority Business Council, and Jim Heylinger, head of the Association of Minority Enterprises of New York (AMENY); and so many others.
“They said it could not be done, and today it’s just hard to believe -- I had to pinch myself, because it’s real. We’re here. And we’re here because of all the efforts of all these people, and because, also, Governor David Paterson. He was totally committed to this before he was governor, when he was in the Senate. When he became head of the Senate. Then he became the lieutenant governor. But even when he was running, he talked about his commitment to MWBE. And he followed through and he made it happen.
“It’s hard to say if there’s a safeguard, and there is a concern. I think we have to work just as hard to keep this as we did to develop it. Because now that we’ve got it, once you taste a little bit of the freedom; you’ve jumped in the water, you don’t want to go back to second class or third class citizenship. And you want now to, as the young man said on the podiium, we want to now become medium sized businesses, and then large businesses. Because we, after all, we are the majority of the population. So we have a right, we deserve, we’re qualified, capable, we’re skilled. So we can do this, so we’re not going to go back. It ain’t happening!” (Reminiscent of the lyrics in the Black spiritual “Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me around!”)
FRITZ-EARLE McLYMONT of Mc Lymont, Kunda & Co., an international trade and development corporation strategist, as well as a writer:
“There’s a point I want to make too. We have to look at the facts. We understand the significance of history, but we need to take advantage of the opportunity now. Not next month. And we have to be diligent. We have to be committed. Not just New York State. We have to take advantage of what’s happening nationally and locally. We must begin to understand the significance of relationships. And the trust that we have to have with each other. Because when we have the right individuals in place, we can accomplish a great deal. I look at that building the [Hotel] Theresa, when I worked in there with HARYOUACT, going back to the 60’s; and I’ve seen the changes, we’ve come a long way. But it boils down to the level of relationships that we can maintain.”
JIM HEYLINGER, President AMENY:
We are wielding some major power. Because we are now putting our [own] money up. We are going out to the polls and supporting our candidates. We’re supporting what we really want. We’re getting our friends and family together, like you never have before. The organizations are coming together. We’re talking now. Once upon a time we were like crabs in a basket. We were always fighting. And now I’m delighted that it’s happening in my lifetime! That we are now communicating; we’re working together!!”
Heylinger also paid homage to Nat Singleton, whom called his mentor. Nat Singleton, owner of the Paradise Club and Restaurant in New Rochelle, became an activist for Black businesses and contract parity in the 80‘s. “He laid the foundation for all this. I just want to say that we’ve been fighting this for -- AMENY’s 35 years old -- we’ve been fighting this for at least 25, 30 years up in Albany. I remember there wasn’t but a hand full of senators up there at the time; and it was a struggle. And I’ve come to learn that any struggle we can win when we work together. If we stop worrying about who’s in charge or who’s up front and who has this and who has that, and who’s going to get this, and who’s going to get that, we can win. We only lose when we decide it’s my turn to be up front; or she should get what he has. That’s when we lose. But every time we have worked together we win. We all have a role to play.”
GLORIA DAVIS FORMER NYS ASSEMBLYWOMAN FROM THE BRONX:
Ms. Davis was involved during the days of (former Assemblymember) Al Vann, Senator (Joe) Galiber, Arthur Eves. Former Assemblywoman were on the scene. I.e., Gloria Davis has been in this struggle for a very long time, and has much to share in terms of the rocky road that has been trod in the putting together and passage of this legislation.
“You know, when Jackie called me and said to me that we’re going to get it. We’re being double crossed here and there, but we’re going to get it. And each time she would call she would tell me that they were a little closer and closer and closer. And I go back to when John Flateau was the director of the (Black and Puerto Rican) Caucus. I go back when Art Eve, Gloria Davis, Al Vann, Roger Green and how we used to fight to get the doors open. Not to sit at the table. Just to
open the doors for our people -- for you! “
Ms. Davis stated that Eve would be proud of what they had accomplished. “And I know that some of ya’ll have informed this man of the hard work that he did, because he built this. And he was in the forefront. You know, everybody knows Art. That was our Godfather. Art taught us all. So to see this happening today, and to see the faces that I haven’t seen in a long time, and I salute you Senator Ruth. Because I can remember you coming up, lobbying us. You know, God is good, because you’re no longer lobbying us, you are now leading this. You are Queen Mother! It took a lot to get this legislation passed. And if David Paterson had not been governor, we would not be here. Or if we were here we would have a half a loaf of bread, okay? With a hole in it, and as we leave the slices have withered down to nothing. History has been made today. And I’m glad that God allowed me to watch, to hear and to feel and see this day. I salute you. Thank you!”
What’s necessary now is for us to all realize that unity has always been hardwired in our DNA. There have been efforts to obscure it, with divide and conquer tactics, with defamations of our character, and the systematic deprivation of our right of life, liberty, autonomy and economic parity. But somehow, like a phoenix, that spirit permeated the State Office Building, and the celebration held at Mobays in Harlem. It was cross generational in its effect. Sort of like being on hallowed ground.
But, even the euphoria of the successful passing of the bill, did not delude them about the need to be vigilant in the coming days, and to maintain the spirit of cooperative determination as they move forward to the promulgation and implementation stages of this new Minority and Women Business Enterprise Law.
Please come back for Part III
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Previously I heralded Governor David Paterson’s making history by signing the first ever Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) into law in the State of New York.
In case you thought this happened over night, let me assure you this was decades in the making. In fact, the backstory to the passing of this MWBE Bill into law has many “sheroes”* and heroes (*got that term from Rev. Jesse Jackson).
Needless to say, this legislation has been on the governor’s radar for quite some time. Long before he became Governor, in fact, while he was still a senator, David Paterson was concerned about the disparities between mainstream contractors and minority contractors, and made concerted efforts to mitigate the problem. Of course, while he was diligent, the political will of the incumbent “leaders” were neither interested or supportive. So all compliance was relegated to low goals and so called “good faith efforts.”
As Lt. Governor, Paterson traveled throughout the state meeting with minority business organizations and community groups about the lack of inclusion in construction projects, bonding inequities, and being left out of the bids for contracts being let by the state. At the time he pledged to work with them to change the dynamics. Several meetings were held in Brooklyn, which has a fairly large base of Black-owned and operated businesses, many of which are generally relegated to the status of sub-contractor, as opposed to that of prime contractor.
According to Assemblywoman Crystal Beavers, who spoke at the ceremony, “I agree with Darryl Towns, this is the day to give God the glory, because without Him we could not do this on our own. And I mean that. So I give God the glory.”
Beavers stated that the bill would never have seen the light of day, let alone been passed, had it not been for Paterson’s leadership. “It always takes somebody at the leadership level to make things happen. I mean we all work hard under them, but the leaders really make things happen. We really have to give our governor a lot of credit. When I first came to the State Assembly there was no Committee on Oversight of Minority and Women Owned Businesses. That was a new position that was created by the speaker, because we had Darryl Towns, and at the time Clarence Norman was still an assembly member. We needed this position, because we really needed strengthen section 15A, not just renew the sunset.”
Beavers continued enthusiastically: “In order to do that we needed some formal organization that would work continuously on just that issue. And we have done just that. So I am very proud of this thing. I think it’s not only great for the newness of Section 15A, but it’s something good for the groundbreaking legislation that Queen Mother (Ruth Thompson) and I have sent to the Assembly to give opportunities to minorities and women. We’re called the Empire State but sometimes we have to look at other states to see what they’re doing; and other states are going to look at us to see what we’re doing as well.” Prior to being elected to the Assembly, Beavers was a member of Grass Roots, an activist organization in western NY. She well understands the dynamics of activism, coalition-formation and staying the course in bringing a concept to fruition.
As a leader, Governor Paterson has made good on his promise. In June 2008, Governor Paterson’s Executive Order No. 10 established the Task Force on Minority and Women Business Enterprises. Key to the success of that Task Force were Michael Jones-Bey, Executive Director of Empire State Development’s Minority & Women’s Business Development; and Paul T. Williams Jr., the Executive Director of the Dormitory Authority, (DASNY) who served as the Task Force Chairman.
Integrally involved from the very beginning was State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson (affectionately known as The Queen Mother), whose office played a pivotal role in supporting the efforts to research and compile the necessary information in formulating a bill that would be comprehensive, equitable, and as tamper proof as possible.
Paterson mused, as he prepared to sign the Bills, “I love that in the top 200 businesses in Black Enterprise Magazine, New York has never finished higher than eighth on the list. Even though our population exceeds states like South Carolina - ahead of New York; Georgia - ahead of New York; Alabama - ahead of New York. Would you believe that? In the mid-60’s, in terms of procurement, Alabama won a lot of contracts - won by Congressman Savage - [they] placed number six. New York is now going to soar right past all those states!”
His enthusiasm was indeed contagious, as the audience exploded in applause at the concept of now finally having the wherewithal to level the playing field, making contracting opportunities accessible to all.
According to a report from Governor Paterson’s office, as a result of his initial Executive Order and the work of the Task Force, MWBE participation has already quadrupled. The firms that are involved with investment banking and the issuance of debt went from 4.2 percent MWBE in 2007 to 23.9 percent. Under Governor Paterson's leadership, minority and women firms have yielded an increase of $162 million in revenue from prior year levels. And thirteen percent of stimulus transportation projects have gone to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises – for a total of $146 million dollars and an estimated 3,500 jobs created or saved.
Given the momentum already established, those numbers should more than double by this time next year. However, it definitely remains for the rest of the community, current and future MWBEs, and those looking to start their own businesses, to learn everything they can, do their due diligence, step up to the plate, and keep the ball rolling (how do you like that for a motivational rah-rah speech?).
But you don’t have to take my word for it. What follows are some commentaries from stake holders, advocates and activists who have been in the eye of the storm from the beginning. Their input not only gives texture to the magnitude of this bill, but, hopefully, informs us of what we need to do to make sure it succeeds and has the far reaching benefits for which it was intended -- if you get my drift. So this is not only what it means to them, but what it means for you as well:
I am going to start with Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, and am quoting her concluding statements first, because they set the tone for the mindset and conscientiousness with which we have to approach the implementation of this legislation:
STATE SENATOR RUTH HASSELL-THOMPSON:
“Read this! Read what the law says! Read what the law says!!! We talk about reading is fundamental, but we don’t really read. These legislative pieces are very important. These are our declarations of independence. This is our declaration that says this gives us the right to enter the market on an equal footing with anybody else. And so we are declaring that ’you free now!”(spoken tongue in cheek street venacular). Until you have economic freedom, you’re not free. But you’re free now. But you know what happens with freedom -- freedom is not free. I made a promise to you. I kept it. Now you have to keep a promise to yourself. That if you were given the opportunity, that you would do what you need to do.”
“These bills intend to bring our State procurement process into the 21st Century by removing barriers that have historically prevented women and persons of color from reaching full economic parity with respect to contracting opportunities in this State. By the year 2040 more than 50% of the population of New York State will be made up of what are termed ‘minority groups.’
“Large corporations have already sought to prepare for this eventuality by engaging in a process known as 'Supplier Diversity.' New York State has lagged behind even the private sector with respect to its contract expenditures for Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (MWBEs). The four bill package, also known as the New York State Business Diversity Act, ensures that the State's fiduciary-controlled entities, public authorities and agencies have developed and codified a strategy aimed at inclusion, and meaningful participation of MWBEs across New York State. These bills go a long way to ensure that best-practices are institutionalized and that contracting opportunities are readily available for qualified MWBEs.”
In other words, now that the excuse of no opportunity, or no help, or no law is no longer relevant, we really do have to put our money (time, energy, creativity, talent, skills, etc.) where our mouths are.
To get a sense of what the feelings were around the room upon the signing of the Bill into law, I asked the following: “How do you feel about the new law?” And, “Since the Governor is not going to be here after January, do you have a concern? Are we in safe waters? Are we going to see a reversal, which is what Pataki did when he got in office? And what Giuliani did in New York City when he got in. Are we looking at it being a victory for now, only to find it overturned? What’s our safeguard?”
JOSEPH ARGRETTE: President and CEO JMA Concrete Construction Co., who received his MWBE status early on, and has been part of the struggle for parity for minority contractors responded:
“Well this is historical for New York for both women and minorities in business and in construction. As you know, I’ve been around and supporting Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson for many years, when she was the executive director of the WMCA. This is a great day. It is now a law. We’ve got to come back to the table and make it work.”
BILL HOWELL businessman, entrepreneur, minority contractor and advocate for MWBEs:
“We’ve been around this for a while. We’ve seen all the tricks in the book. We already have history. From the late sixties through the early seventies. And we see this as a lot of hard work and commitment and just faith, and wonderful people working together, being totally together to make this come to reality. And today is the fruition of tremendous efforts over many, many years, by a lot of different people. This young man here from the National Minority Business Council, and Jim Heylinger, head of the Association of Minority Enterprises of New York (AMENY); and so many others.
“They said it could not be done, and today it’s just hard to believe -- I had to pinch myself, because it’s real. We’re here. And we’re here because of all the efforts of all these people, and because, also, Governor David Paterson. He was totally committed to this before he was governor, when he was in the Senate. When he became head of the Senate. Then he became the lieutenant governor. But even when he was running, he talked about his commitment to MWBE. And he followed through and he made it happen.
“It’s hard to say if there’s a safeguard, and there is a concern. I think we have to work just as hard to keep this as we did to develop it. Because now that we’ve got it, once you taste a little bit of the freedom; you’ve jumped in the water, you don’t want to go back to second class or third class citizenship. And you want now to, as the young man said on the podiium, we want to now become medium sized businesses, and then large businesses. Because we, after all, we are the majority of the population. So we have a right, we deserve, we’re qualified, capable, we’re skilled. So we can do this, so we’re not going to go back. It ain’t happening!” (Reminiscent of the lyrics in the Black spiritual “Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me around!”)
FRITZ-EARLE McLYMONT of Mc Lymont, Kunda & Co., an international trade and development corporation strategist, as well as a writer:
“There’s a point I want to make too. We have to look at the facts. We understand the significance of history, but we need to take advantage of the opportunity now. Not next month. And we have to be diligent. We have to be committed. Not just New York State. We have to take advantage of what’s happening nationally and locally. We must begin to understand the significance of relationships. And the trust that we have to have with each other. Because when we have the right individuals in place, we can accomplish a great deal. I look at that building the [Hotel] Theresa, when I worked in there with HARYOUACT, going back to the 60’s; and I’ve seen the changes, we’ve come a long way. But it boils down to the level of relationships that we can maintain.”
JIM HEYLINGER, President AMENY:
We are wielding some major power. Because we are now putting our [own] money up. We are going out to the polls and supporting our candidates. We’re supporting what we really want. We’re getting our friends and family together, like you never have before. The organizations are coming together. We’re talking now. Once upon a time we were like crabs in a basket. We were always fighting. And now I’m delighted that it’s happening in my lifetime! That we are now communicating; we’re working together!!”
Heylinger also paid homage to Nat Singleton, whom called his mentor. Nat Singleton, owner of the Paradise Club and Restaurant in New Rochelle, became an activist for Black businesses and contract parity in the 80‘s. “He laid the foundation for all this. I just want to say that we’ve been fighting this for -- AMENY’s 35 years old -- we’ve been fighting this for at least 25, 30 years up in Albany. I remember there wasn’t but a hand full of senators up there at the time; and it was a struggle. And I’ve come to learn that any struggle we can win when we work together. If we stop worrying about who’s in charge or who’s up front and who has this and who has that, and who’s going to get this, and who’s going to get that, we can win. We only lose when we decide it’s my turn to be up front; or she should get what he has. That’s when we lose. But every time we have worked together we win. We all have a role to play.”
GLORIA DAVIS FORMER NYS ASSEMBLYWOMAN FROM THE BRONX:
Ms. Davis was involved during the days of (former Assemblymember) Al Vann, Senator (Joe) Galiber, Arthur Eves. Former Assemblywoman were on the scene. I.e., Gloria Davis has been in this struggle for a very long time, and has much to share in terms of the rocky road that has been trod in the putting together and passage of this legislation.
“You know, when Jackie called me and said to me that we’re going to get it. We’re being double crossed here and there, but we’re going to get it. And each time she would call she would tell me that they were a little closer and closer and closer. And I go back to when John Flateau was the director of the (Black and Puerto Rican) Caucus. I go back when Art Eve, Gloria Davis, Al Vann, Roger Green and how we used to fight to get the doors open. Not to sit at the table. Just to
open the doors for our people -- for you! “
Ms. Davis stated that Eve would be proud of what they had accomplished. “And I know that some of ya’ll have informed this man of the hard work that he did, because he built this. And he was in the forefront. You know, everybody knows Art. That was our Godfather. Art taught us all. So to see this happening today, and to see the faces that I haven’t seen in a long time, and I salute you Senator Ruth. Because I can remember you coming up, lobbying us. You know, God is good, because you’re no longer lobbying us, you are now leading this. You are Queen Mother! It took a lot to get this legislation passed. And if David Paterson had not been governor, we would not be here. Or if we were here we would have a half a loaf of bread, okay? With a hole in it, and as we leave the slices have withered down to nothing. History has been made today. And I’m glad that God allowed me to watch, to hear and to feel and see this day. I salute you. Thank you!”
What’s necessary now is for us to all realize that unity has always been hardwired in our DNA. There have been efforts to obscure it, with divide and conquer tactics, with defamations of our character, and the systematic deprivation of our right of life, liberty, autonomy and economic parity. But somehow, like a phoenix, that spirit permeated the State Office Building, and the celebration held at Mobays in Harlem. It was cross generational in its effect. Sort of like being on hallowed ground.
But, even the euphoria of the successful passing of the bill, did not delude them about the need to be vigilant in the coming days, and to maintain the spirit of cooperative determination as they move forward to the promulgation and implementation stages of this new Minority and Women Business Enterprise Law.
Please come back for Part III
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
7.22.2010
“Governor David Paterson Signs First New York State MWBE Bill into Law” PART I
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This is going to be a 3-Part Report. Why? Because of the monumental significance of this legislation. Because Governor David A. Paterson has made history in the State of New York. Because of the far reaching effects this bill has on the Minority and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE), who have been systematically and effectively kept out of the loop by avaricious, racist practices that had been allowed to continue unabated, despite the efforts on the local and federal level.
While this initially will be a 3-part article, there will be articles and updates as progress is made in including more and more Minorities and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE) into New York’s business arena.
When I wrote the headline: “Governor David Paterson Signs First New York State MWBE Bill into Law” for Our Times Press, you have no idea how proud I was of Governor Paterson, and of those who stayed the course to deliver this monumental piece of legislation for us.
By us, do I need to say Black people (Blacks, Hispanic, Asian, and other non-white citizens). While the Governor’s responsibility is for all New Yorkers, we all know that prior to him, that “all people” part was in name only. And whenever there was any kind of so-called minority business inclusionary effort, the mainstream contractors did every thing under the sun (and a little in the dark) to keep from complying with it.
As a former Minority Business Compliance Officer myself, for a Japanese firm, Nissho Iwai American Corp; the New York City Transit Authority, and Lehrer McGovern Bovis (LMB), I can personally tell you of the many egregious efforts to thwart the goals, to circumvent the program; to undermine the process on the part of the mainstream, prime (read, white) contractors.
The Japanese made extraordinary efforts to comply, and actually exceed the requirements, and actively outreached to Black and minority owned businesses. The Transit Authority likewise held active technical assistance training programs to bring more minority businesses on board. But during my time at LMB, there were so many times that mainstream contractors through trickery, lies and deceit -- not to mention bribery and threats, did every thing they could to block implementation of the MWBE programs. If a Black contractor qualified as a prime contractor, making him eligible for full funding, and to be able to hire his own crew, they would try to make their and my life a living hell.
But on July 15, history was made in Harlem with the whisk of a pen, as New York State Governor David A. Paterson signed into law four sweeping legislations that makes it mandatory for State and local government to include minority and women owned businesses in contract and business negotiations and allocations. And as I witnessed that historic signing, I had a flash back to what that truly meant.
The Art Gallery at Harlem’s Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building was packed to witness Governor Paterson, who hosted the event, and the ceremonious signing of this much awaited piece of legislation, the first of its kind in the history of New York State. Many of them were likewise from those bad old days of the early on struggle for minority contractor participation. I do believe I saw some teary eyes in the audience.
Flanking Governor Paterson were New York State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson (affectionately known as the “Queen Mother”), State Senator Kevin Parker, Malcolm Smith, NYS Assemblymembers Darryl Towns, Keith Wright, City Council member Robert Jackson, Michael Jones-Bey, Executive Director Minority & Women’s Business Development, and Michael Garner, Chief Diversity Officer with the MTA, Speaker Sheldon Silver, Paul Williams of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), who headed up the task force that put this legislation together.
This historical event may well be one of the high marks in Governor Paterson’s turbulent tenure as the first Black governor of New York. He has done what his predecessors have failed to do. Previous MWBE legislations were little more than executive orders, which included more loopholes than anything else. Such clauses as “best efforts”, which allowed mainstream businesses to side step including minority contractors in a city that is perpetually under construction, nearly 24/7, by claiming there were no “qualified” contractors to fill the bill.
It is clear that without the concerted combined efforts of State Senator Ruth Hassell Thompson, Michael Jones-Bey, and the members of the New York State Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, working in concert with consultants, advocacy groups, and minority and women owned businesses throughout the state, this bill would not have been as comprehensive and far reaching as it is. Finally, this is a bill with some teeth in it.
For decades to come, minority business owners can mark July 15, 2010 as a history making day in the State of New York. Many never thought they would ever see the day come. Now July 15 will be etched in their memories.
Governor David A. Paterson has done what no other New York governor has ever done, and signed four epoch-making bills into law. Because of his diligent efforts, under the most disconcerting pressure of trying to balance the budget, and warding off the barbs of a hostile media, Governor Paterson has signed legislation that finally establishes a level playing field for Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises. They should allocate July 15 as a day for celebration and commemoration.
As he signed the bills into law, he stated proudly: "With these pieces of legislation, our State is building on its proud history of opening the door to success for any New Yorker who has the talent, drive and passion for their business to succeed. But there is still much work to be done to correct disparities in government contracting. By improving equity in the State procurement process and facilitating greater access for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises, we help businesses thrive, and we will help our State recover from recession."
Three of the bills were Governor’s Program Bills.
Governor's Program Bill No. 297 (S.8312/ A.11525): Raises the cap on discretionary purchases that a State agency can award to MWBEs or small businesses from $100,000 to $200,000, subject to the agency's internal controls, but not based on full-blown competitive procurement procedures.
Governor's Program Bill No. 298 (S.8313/ A.11526): Expands contracting practices of public authorities granting increased opportunities for MWBE participation. Additionally, requires that the procurement guidelines for each State public authority include the designation of one or more senior staff to oversee the authority's MWBE program and requires that procurements be conducted to achieve the authority's MWBE goals to the maximum feasible extent.
Governor's Program Bill No. 299 (S.8314/A.11527): Expands and strengthens the State's program for MWBE contracting, and authorizes a new and more thorough disparity study before the provisions relating to the MWBE program expires in 2014, including in-depth review of contractors' hiring and promotional practices. This legislation will also create the position of Chief Diversity Officer to oversee the MWBE program and diversity issues in the workforce from within the Executive Chamber.
In addition to the three programmatic bills, the Governor also signed the: Emerging Investment Managers Bill (S.6888/ A.9976): Addresses entities that are not executive agencies, and that control large pools of money for investment: the Comptroller, the State Insurance Fund and the Deferred Compensation Board. This legislation will provide emerging investment managers the ability to invest with MWBE financial institutions and to adopt a strategy that motivates investments in underserved regions of the State.
To find out more about the MWBE legislation, contact your local New York State Assembly member or State Senator. You can also log on to www.ny.gov/governor, for details about the legislations.
Part II will have reactions from several of the other legislators and advocates who participated in putting together one of the most important pieces of legislation in the history of the State of New York.
To be continued...
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This is going to be a 3-Part Report. Why? Because of the monumental significance of this legislation. Because Governor David A. Paterson has made history in the State of New York. Because of the far reaching effects this bill has on the Minority and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE), who have been systematically and effectively kept out of the loop by avaricious, racist practices that had been allowed to continue unabated, despite the efforts on the local and federal level.
While this initially will be a 3-part article, there will be articles and updates as progress is made in including more and more Minorities and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE) into New York’s business arena.
When I wrote the headline: “Governor David Paterson Signs First New York State MWBE Bill into Law” for Our Times Press, you have no idea how proud I was of Governor Paterson, and of those who stayed the course to deliver this monumental piece of legislation for us.
By us, do I need to say Black people (Blacks, Hispanic, Asian, and other non-white citizens). While the Governor’s responsibility is for all New Yorkers, we all know that prior to him, that “all people” part was in name only. And whenever there was any kind of so-called minority business inclusionary effort, the mainstream contractors did every thing under the sun (and a little in the dark) to keep from complying with it.
As a former Minority Business Compliance Officer myself, for a Japanese firm, Nissho Iwai American Corp; the New York City Transit Authority, and Lehrer McGovern Bovis (LMB), I can personally tell you of the many egregious efforts to thwart the goals, to circumvent the program; to undermine the process on the part of the mainstream, prime (read, white) contractors.
The Japanese made extraordinary efforts to comply, and actually exceed the requirements, and actively outreached to Black and minority owned businesses. The Transit Authority likewise held active technical assistance training programs to bring more minority businesses on board. But during my time at LMB, there were so many times that mainstream contractors through trickery, lies and deceit -- not to mention bribery and threats, did every thing they could to block implementation of the MWBE programs. If a Black contractor qualified as a prime contractor, making him eligible for full funding, and to be able to hire his own crew, they would try to make their and my life a living hell.
But on July 15, history was made in Harlem with the whisk of a pen, as New York State Governor David A. Paterson signed into law four sweeping legislations that makes it mandatory for State and local government to include minority and women owned businesses in contract and business negotiations and allocations. And as I witnessed that historic signing, I had a flash back to what that truly meant.
The Art Gallery at Harlem’s Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building was packed to witness Governor Paterson, who hosted the event, and the ceremonious signing of this much awaited piece of legislation, the first of its kind in the history of New York State. Many of them were likewise from those bad old days of the early on struggle for minority contractor participation. I do believe I saw some teary eyes in the audience.
Flanking Governor Paterson were New York State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson (affectionately known as the “Queen Mother”), State Senator Kevin Parker, Malcolm Smith, NYS Assemblymembers Darryl Towns, Keith Wright, City Council member Robert Jackson, Michael Jones-Bey, Executive Director Minority & Women’s Business Development, and Michael Garner, Chief Diversity Officer with the MTA, Speaker Sheldon Silver, Paul Williams of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), who headed up the task force that put this legislation together.
This historical event may well be one of the high marks in Governor Paterson’s turbulent tenure as the first Black governor of New York. He has done what his predecessors have failed to do. Previous MWBE legislations were little more than executive orders, which included more loopholes than anything else. Such clauses as “best efforts”, which allowed mainstream businesses to side step including minority contractors in a city that is perpetually under construction, nearly 24/7, by claiming there were no “qualified” contractors to fill the bill.
It is clear that without the concerted combined efforts of State Senator Ruth Hassell Thompson, Michael Jones-Bey, and the members of the New York State Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, working in concert with consultants, advocacy groups, and minority and women owned businesses throughout the state, this bill would not have been as comprehensive and far reaching as it is. Finally, this is a bill with some teeth in it.
For decades to come, minority business owners can mark July 15, 2010 as a history making day in the State of New York. Many never thought they would ever see the day come. Now July 15 will be etched in their memories.
Governor David A. Paterson has done what no other New York governor has ever done, and signed four epoch-making bills into law. Because of his diligent efforts, under the most disconcerting pressure of trying to balance the budget, and warding off the barbs of a hostile media, Governor Paterson has signed legislation that finally establishes a level playing field for Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises. They should allocate July 15 as a day for celebration and commemoration.
As he signed the bills into law, he stated proudly: "With these pieces of legislation, our State is building on its proud history of opening the door to success for any New Yorker who has the talent, drive and passion for their business to succeed. But there is still much work to be done to correct disparities in government contracting. By improving equity in the State procurement process and facilitating greater access for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises, we help businesses thrive, and we will help our State recover from recession."
Three of the bills were Governor’s Program Bills.
Governor's Program Bill No. 297 (S.8312/ A.11525): Raises the cap on discretionary purchases that a State agency can award to MWBEs or small businesses from $100,000 to $200,000, subject to the agency's internal controls, but not based on full-blown competitive procurement procedures.
Governor's Program Bill No. 298 (S.8313/ A.11526): Expands contracting practices of public authorities granting increased opportunities for MWBE participation. Additionally, requires that the procurement guidelines for each State public authority include the designation of one or more senior staff to oversee the authority's MWBE program and requires that procurements be conducted to achieve the authority's MWBE goals to the maximum feasible extent.
Governor's Program Bill No. 299 (S.8314/A.11527): Expands and strengthens the State's program for MWBE contracting, and authorizes a new and more thorough disparity study before the provisions relating to the MWBE program expires in 2014, including in-depth review of contractors' hiring and promotional practices. This legislation will also create the position of Chief Diversity Officer to oversee the MWBE program and diversity issues in the workforce from within the Executive Chamber.
In addition to the three programmatic bills, the Governor also signed the: Emerging Investment Managers Bill (S.6888/ A.9976): Addresses entities that are not executive agencies, and that control large pools of money for investment: the Comptroller, the State Insurance Fund and the Deferred Compensation Board. This legislation will provide emerging investment managers the ability to invest with MWBE financial institutions and to adopt a strategy that motivates investments in underserved regions of the State.
To find out more about the MWBE legislation, contact your local New York State Assembly member or State Senator. You can also log on to www.ny.gov/governor, for details about the legislations.
Part II will have reactions from several of the other legislators and advocates who participated in putting together one of the most important pieces of legislation in the history of the State of New York.
To be continued...
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
7.20.2010
VOTE OUT THOSE WHO VOTED AGAINST UNEMPLOYMENT EXTENSION
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Message to All Americans:
I hope all Americans are watching the evil that walks among us going under the name of the Republican Party. I truly hope you are observing their actions, disdain, disrespect and disregard for Americans.
This latest insult has to do with extending Unemployment Insurance for 2.5 million of Americans. Somehow they have forgotten that these unemployed Americans are unemployed because of their actions, and the illicit behavior of an administration gone mad, under an individual who took a country that was enjoying a surplus, thanks to his predecessor, and turned it into such a crushing deficit, that some means of employment have completely disappeared.
It is only the latest in a series of egregious acts against Americans under this political party. Nixon’s Watergate springs to mind. The undermining of US farmers under the Reagan, not to mention the air traffic controllers issue. And who can forget the horror that was Katrina and the fiddling about that happened as a result of that. Then of course the entire collapse of Wall Street and the discovery that mortgages on American homes were being securitized and sold outside of the country.
Now, because of their deliberate deregulations, favoritism, cronyism, and under the table deals that have led to the most crushing economic downfall since the great depression, hard working Americans - many of whom are in career retraining programs (because their original jobs actually no longer exist)- are being made the pawns by the Republicans who think it okay to add insult to injury by denying them the means to sustain themselves while they try to get their lives back.
I hope you remember who these people are when it comes time to vote, which is coming up in less than 194 days. I hope you remember that President Obama is working to keep rectify the wrongs these miscreants have caused. I hope when you go to the polls you make sure that those individuals who thought it interesting, okay and amusing to filibuster over the lives of millions of America, never, ever again walk the halls of Congress.
I hope you exercise your right as Americans and vote them out of office, and replace them with people who will act in your best interest, not their egos. VOTE THEM OUT!
The tragedy is that these people have sullied the party that was once the pride of President Lincoln and America. As they say in the movie, any resemblance between them and the original party is purely coincidental, I.e. in name only. IT’S TIME TO VOTE THEM OUT!!
While America is a two-party country, we should never ever have a situation whereby a party that constantly, continuously and consistently cause stress, pain, and debilitating poverty for their fellow citizens, while they sit around and thumb their noses at them. They should not be allowed to get a pass. IT’S TIME TO VOTE THEM OUT!!!
Time to vote in people who represent us, and then make sure they do what we need them to do. It is also time to support those who are working hard for us, and make sure they have the backing they need from us.
We deserve to have this country work for all of us, but there are some of us who have decided otherwise. They are sitting in the seats in Congress that could and should be occupied by individuals who really are there to help America and Americans be greater, and to realize their highest and best. LET’S VOTE THOSE WHO CARE ABOUT AMERICANS AND THEIR WELL BEINGS IN; AND VOTE THOSE WHO OBVIOUSLY HAVE NO REGARD FOR US OUT.
In the meantime, I strongly suggest you contact your Congressman or Congresswoman and let them know that you are mad as hell and you’re not going to take this any more. Let your voice be heard today, and your vote be felt tomorrow.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Message to All Americans:
I hope all Americans are watching the evil that walks among us going under the name of the Republican Party. I truly hope you are observing their actions, disdain, disrespect and disregard for Americans.
This latest insult has to do with extending Unemployment Insurance for 2.5 million of Americans. Somehow they have forgotten that these unemployed Americans are unemployed because of their actions, and the illicit behavior of an administration gone mad, under an individual who took a country that was enjoying a surplus, thanks to his predecessor, and turned it into such a crushing deficit, that some means of employment have completely disappeared.
It is only the latest in a series of egregious acts against Americans under this political party. Nixon’s Watergate springs to mind. The undermining of US farmers under the Reagan, not to mention the air traffic controllers issue. And who can forget the horror that was Katrina and the fiddling about that happened as a result of that. Then of course the entire collapse of Wall Street and the discovery that mortgages on American homes were being securitized and sold outside of the country.
Now, because of their deliberate deregulations, favoritism, cronyism, and under the table deals that have led to the most crushing economic downfall since the great depression, hard working Americans - many of whom are in career retraining programs (because their original jobs actually no longer exist)- are being made the pawns by the Republicans who think it okay to add insult to injury by denying them the means to sustain themselves while they try to get their lives back.
I hope you remember who these people are when it comes time to vote, which is coming up in less than 194 days. I hope you remember that President Obama is working to keep rectify the wrongs these miscreants have caused. I hope when you go to the polls you make sure that those individuals who thought it interesting, okay and amusing to filibuster over the lives of millions of America, never, ever again walk the halls of Congress.
I hope you exercise your right as Americans and vote them out of office, and replace them with people who will act in your best interest, not their egos. VOTE THEM OUT!
The tragedy is that these people have sullied the party that was once the pride of President Lincoln and America. As they say in the movie, any resemblance between them and the original party is purely coincidental, I.e. in name only. IT’S TIME TO VOTE THEM OUT!!
While America is a two-party country, we should never ever have a situation whereby a party that constantly, continuously and consistently cause stress, pain, and debilitating poverty for their fellow citizens, while they sit around and thumb their noses at them. They should not be allowed to get a pass. IT’S TIME TO VOTE THEM OUT!!!
Time to vote in people who represent us, and then make sure they do what we need them to do. It is also time to support those who are working hard for us, and make sure they have the backing they need from us.
We deserve to have this country work for all of us, but there are some of us who have decided otherwise. They are sitting in the seats in Congress that could and should be occupied by individuals who really are there to help America and Americans be greater, and to realize their highest and best. LET’S VOTE THOSE WHO CARE ABOUT AMERICANS AND THEIR WELL BEINGS IN; AND VOTE THOSE WHO OBVIOUSLY HAVE NO REGARD FOR US OUT.
In the meantime, I strongly suggest you contact your Congressman or Congresswoman and let them know that you are mad as hell and you’re not going to take this any more. Let your voice be heard today, and your vote be felt tomorrow.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
7.16.2010
NNPA III: Motown Mogul Berry Gordy and Cong. Charles Rangel Receive NNPA LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
How do you put top off an already successful conference that is comprised of some of the sharpest Black Newspaper Publishers and writers ever? It’s not easy. Most of them have seen it all - from the bad, the shabby, the tacky, from racists to criminal, through to the most positive, power, erudite and elegant of experiences. So you have to plan carefully, keeping in mind that your audience is comprised of reporters, photographers, editors, advertising and marketing specialists (sometimes all rolled up in one person).
It is safe to say that Danny Bakewell and those who worked with him to plan this event, not only far exceeded expectations, but left them totally “wowed!”
The NNPA wrapped up its historical 2010 summer convention in New York with an awards ceremony dinner and gala which honored Harlem-based Congressman Charles Rangel and Motown founder and mogul Berry Gordy, who is celebrating Motown’s 50th Anniversary this year.
(50 years??????? That’s amazing, when so many of us can remember as kids dancing to Smokey Robinson’s “Really Got a Hold on Me” and “Mickey’s Monkey” -- but I digress).
From beginning to end the evening was one of congeniality and excitement. Berry Gordy is most definitely a celebrity many speak of in whispers and wonder. He is mythic and legendary in his accomplishments during a time when Blacks were still being relegated to the back of the bus.
No one expected him to be as down to earth, pleasant, approachable, as he was when he walked through the crowd of admirers waiting to be seated at their respective tables. Stopping to shake hands with one, be photographed with another, accepting business cards from yet another. Slim, trim, in an elegant evening suit, you look into those soft brown, smiling eyes and think, “Wow! I’m talking to the great Berry Gordy. This is really fantastic!”
Unlike many celebrities who come in through side doors, not wanting to interact with their admirers, Mr. Gordy took time to really converse with several of the NNPA members and guest, leaving them with an even more wonderful impression of him as a person, as well as a giant in the music industry.
It's hard to encompass so much history in such a short time. Even more difficult to convey the camaraderie that permeated the gala, as we viewed a video stream of the member newspapers that make up the NNPA, and their combined historical contributions to Black Culture.
The program began with Congressman Rangel, who succeeded the great Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in Congress, receiving the first award. The Congressman always has a great smile, no matter what’s going on. "He’s served in Congress for 20 terms," stated a voice over that chronicled a pictorial of his accomplishments. It continued: “His irresistible energy, his self deprecating sense of humor, and his distinctive voice are a legend on Capitol Hill. Even after having served 20 terms, his eyes are on new horizons. The next chapter. The next challenge.”
When Chairman Danny Bakewell presented Congressman Rangel with the award for exemplary courage in the time of need to our community and our nation,” Rangel received a well deserved standing ovation.
Rangel, who is part of the legendary “Gang of Four“, consisting of David Dinkins, Basil Paterson (father of Governor David Paterson) and former Mayor David Dinkins, and the late Percy Ellis Sutton, always makes reference to them in his speeches: “To my brother, David Dinkins who believed in me, we believed in each other and what we set out to do. "
Congressman Rangel also spoke of the legacy of those who had gone before him, including Amsterdam News journalist, the late Jimmy Booker; the Hon. Percy Ellis Sutton. “Some of the people that we’re most proud of are no longer here. Yet the dreams and the aspirations live on. The fact that during our lifetime we were able to get an African American elected; or that we’ve been covering the dreams and aspirations of people around the world, doesn’t mean that our kids are guaranteed a better life, education, and better home. There's still much work to be done. I feel so individually proud to receive this award because I receive it on behalf of so many people!”
Before we go forward, let me tell you a little about the symbology of the Legacy of Excellence Award. It was personally designed by NNPA National Board Chair Danny Bakewell. Not only is it one of the most distinctive, beautiful, and eloquent designs ever; is speaks volumes about the mind, heart and intense love and dedication that Danny Bakewell has for Black” people. The care consideration and artistry that went into the execution of this symbol is both majestic and touching; and at the same time motivational. Who wouldn’t want to be worthy of what that symbol stands for such that they likewise such an honor bestowed on them? Who wouldn’t want to have such a beautiful testimony to their accomplishment prominently displayed in a favored spot for friends, family, associates to see? It’s an incentive to do your utmost to be deemed worthy.
Per Bakewell, when he was coming up with the concept: "It was an American Eagle because it had to be a model of excellence. It had roots around a African drum; the roots are like the grapevine. Someone said like Tarzan? I said, no, grapevine, it’s how we Black people communicated. The drum, how we communicated when we were in Mother Africa. The Eagle is holding a newspaper in his talons; the object is that wherever we need the word; it has a pen in its beak. He carries the truth with him everywhere he goes.” This is the award that was bestowed upon Congressman Charles Rangel and Motown Music Mogul Berry Gordy.
Danny Bakewell’s reverence for Berry Gordy was unmistakable In fact, Bakewell and Gordy may well have what is called a mutual admiration society." Per Bakewell: “I want to bring a new perspective to the people who don’t know Berry Gordy. Yes he is the legendary promoter. He is a man of extraordinary means; he is an exquisite producer; but he is a man who has a heart. He is a man who has a profound sense of family; and a profound sense of tenacity and courage which is what this award is about. He is all that we know about him in the media; but he has all the things that we try to teach our children. He has all the things that we try to emulate to be better parents; to be better brothers and sisters.”
Bakewell recounted Gordy’s many accomplishments: “He brought to the world Smokey Robinson and The Miracles; he brought to the world Diana Ross and the Supremes; he brought to the world Mary Wells; Marvin Gaye, The Marvelettes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Martha and the Vandellas, Chuck Jackson, The Four Tops, Junior Walker and the All Stars; The Spinners; Tina Marie; the Isley Brothers, Gladys Knight and the Pips, The Jackson Five, Ashford and Simpson, Germaine Jackson; Commodores, Ric James, Lionel Ritchie, and the greatest entertainer in the world, Michael Jackson!!!”
After a standing ovation for the memory of King of Pop, who died suddenly a year ago, Bakewell continued: “So if those talents are geniuses, what is Berry Gordy? And he’s still doing the business of setting standards of excellence. And in many instances, despite the fact that he wants to bring us all along with him, he stands as a beacon light for all that we want to become. And as I inscribed in this award, ‘he put through his dreams;’ and that’s what people don’t understand. He puts through his dreams with excellence in mind, refusing to take a substandard; making people around him understand who he is and what he’s trying to do; what he’s trying to get them to understand. Many times people don’t understand what’s in his heart - the passion, the commitment that drives him… Berry Gordy created Motown and the entertainment industry became an entertainment legend. But Motown’s contribution to the world made him and American Icon. And it is for that reason that we love him and we honor him.”
As the voice over narration touted Gordy’s triumphs, image after image of the Motown greats flashed across the screen. “Fortunately for the young people in Detroit who wanted to pursue music Berry Gordy was there and he was the guy who had the dream the struggle could become truth.”
What followed was a musical tribute produced by Bakewell! A fantastic music documentary chronicling all the artists who came through Gordy and achieved greatness in their own right: Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles; Stevie Wonder; the Four Tops, the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Martha and the Vandellas, Gladys Knight and the Pips; Jackie Wilson, and on and on, that had the well dressed audience snapping their fingers and clapping in rhythm with the music.
(I want that DVD !! I would definitely play it over and over. It was both spectacular and nostalgic. Most of us could relate to at least one, if not all of the artists who have come thru Motown).
When Danny Bakewell presented Berry Gordy with NNPA Legacy of Excellence Award “for 50 years in the music industry as the founder of, and inspiration behind Motown and some of the most dynamic covey of Black artists ever” Berry Gordy was visibly moved -- both by the magnitude of the award, and the musical tribute itself.
After accepting the award, and gathering his composure, Gordy spoke very softly and humorously: “Incredible! This is a very important night for me for so many reasons. I hope I can convey them to you. So many things were happening to me sitting at my table, I was like writing stuff, scratching it out, writing stuff, scratching it out. And just when I thought it was really great, he said something about excellence, and I said I can’t have it, I gotta go back. So you put me in a lot of trouble.”
As the audience’s laughter subsided, Gordy continued, “The point is that I’m here tonight, and it really is an important night for me. I’m so thrilled to be here with so many of my friends; my fellow honoree, the great Charlie Rangel. Marc Marial President of the National Urban League, which is celebrating 100 years of excellence), David Dinkins, Xernona Clayton and others. And to receive this award from my dear, dear friend, Danny Bakewell is the icing on the cake.
“Danny Bakewell has been an idol of mine for many, many years for his commitment, and devotion to the many causes that he champions. I have never seen him lose. His leadership in some of the roughest situations that I’ve seen, I’ve never seen him fail when he was dealing with the worst of us, in terms of drug addicts, young kids going the wrong way; and he had a way of dealing with that -- giving them jobs, doing things, moving them into areas; teaching them things that they could do; things that they thought they were beneath, he taught them how to be great waiters, great busboys, great computer techs. All of these things I’ve seen him do over and over again. And I’ve never seen him fail. So he’s been one of my champions!
Then, with the quick wit and humor that has obviously sustained him through fifty years of putting together a musical empire, he switched gears: “Okay, Danny, enough about you! I’m going to talk about me. I was 11 years old when I was first introduced to the Black press. I worked for the Michigan Chronicle in Detroit. I thought of myself as a marketing genius; a distribution executive. My friends thought of me as a paper boy. And that was cool! Because I actually sold more papers than anybody else. So one weekend I took my show on the road, downtown to the white folks. I always felt our similarities were so much more powerful than our differences. And I was right. They loved me and they loved the Michigan Chronicle. I sold out in no time. I was in incredible shape. The next week, I took my brother Robert with me. Loaded with papers - we were going to clean up! We sold nothing. Not one. And it seemed to me, one Black kid was cute, but two were a threat to the neighborhood. That was my first real marketing lesson. Later when I started Motown, I didn’t put Black faces on some of the first album covers -- I wanted people to hear the music first. I worked, and once it did the rest was history.
“For me, our Motown 50th celebration was not about me or the Motown Superstars, it was more about the unsung heroes of Motown. The people behind the scenes who gave us love, support, and kept us going. And I’m here tonight to make sure that all of you know that you are a part of Motown’s great family.
“You, the Black Press, not only Detroit, but all over the country, have no idea how much you meant -- what your love meant, and your support meant to me and all of us at Motown at a time when we needed it most. You were there. And it was such a wonderful feeling.
“And, I’m somewhat sentimental, because Danny Bakewell gave me the opportunity to stand here and tell you that, because I never had a chance before. I know you’re here to honor me, and I appreciate that; but tonight I’m here to honor you. And it’s a big thrill for me just to stand here and look at all of you and see your faces and realize how much you meant to us in those early days, when we knew we could always count on you to bring out the truth, and to help us in whatever we were doing. And I didn’t even know some of the people I met tonight; and I thanked them personally, you know, and, uh, the Black Press of America is just awesome to Motown. I always think of you as part of the Motown family. And thank you again for allowing me this opportunity to say, Thank you, thank you, and again, thank you!”
It goes without saying that so many Black businessmen and women have no idea how much the positions they are currently enjoying are because of the vigilence and diligence of the Black press, who at every turn is countering and reversing race-drenched material cooked up by the mainstream media to disparage them. It was indeed gratifying to hear those words from Berry Gordy, who, even through his triumphs, has definitely been besieged with invectives and inuendos. It is even more gratifying to celebrate 50 years of an organization that took the music industry, stood it on its ear and made it bow to his standards.
The balance of the evening included the great Gerald Levert of the OJAYS, who definitely rocked the house and make the NNPA regret not have set up some space for dancing. The guests, especially we New Yorkers, finding it difficult to sit while Levert and his band were turning out so much soul, found spaces where ever we were, and “boogied” to the music (which of course was our way of communicating our appreciation for a wonderful evening and a job well done).
As stated in the previous section, the Black Press started in America 183 years ago. There are many who try to say it is no longer relevant or necessary because of computers or because we now have diversity. However, diversity never has and never will replace the virtue of having and maintaining your own means of communication.
Will Rogers (a personal hero of mine from Oklahoma) once said: “I don’t know much, all I know is what I read in the newspapers.” Well if the newspapers you get your information from are self affirming, pro Black and culturally aware and supportive, you will end up knowing a great deal.
Congratulations to the NNPA for keeping Black People Informed and involved for 183 years. Here's to 183 more.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
How do you put top off an already successful conference that is comprised of some of the sharpest Black Newspaper Publishers and writers ever? It’s not easy. Most of them have seen it all - from the bad, the shabby, the tacky, from racists to criminal, through to the most positive, power, erudite and elegant of experiences. So you have to plan carefully, keeping in mind that your audience is comprised of reporters, photographers, editors, advertising and marketing specialists (sometimes all rolled up in one person).
It is safe to say that Danny Bakewell and those who worked with him to plan this event, not only far exceeded expectations, but left them totally “wowed!”
The NNPA wrapped up its historical 2010 summer convention in New York with an awards ceremony dinner and gala which honored Harlem-based Congressman Charles Rangel and Motown founder and mogul Berry Gordy, who is celebrating Motown’s 50th Anniversary this year.
(50 years??????? That’s amazing, when so many of us can remember as kids dancing to Smokey Robinson’s “Really Got a Hold on Me” and “Mickey’s Monkey” -- but I digress).
From beginning to end the evening was one of congeniality and excitement. Berry Gordy is most definitely a celebrity many speak of in whispers and wonder. He is mythic and legendary in his accomplishments during a time when Blacks were still being relegated to the back of the bus.
No one expected him to be as down to earth, pleasant, approachable, as he was when he walked through the crowd of admirers waiting to be seated at their respective tables. Stopping to shake hands with one, be photographed with another, accepting business cards from yet another. Slim, trim, in an elegant evening suit, you look into those soft brown, smiling eyes and think, “Wow! I’m talking to the great Berry Gordy. This is really fantastic!”
Unlike many celebrities who come in through side doors, not wanting to interact with their admirers, Mr. Gordy took time to really converse with several of the NNPA members and guest, leaving them with an even more wonderful impression of him as a person, as well as a giant in the music industry.
It's hard to encompass so much history in such a short time. Even more difficult to convey the camaraderie that permeated the gala, as we viewed a video stream of the member newspapers that make up the NNPA, and their combined historical contributions to Black Culture.
The program began with Congressman Rangel, who succeeded the great Adam Clayton Powell Jr. in Congress, receiving the first award. The Congressman always has a great smile, no matter what’s going on. "He’s served in Congress for 20 terms," stated a voice over that chronicled a pictorial of his accomplishments. It continued: “His irresistible energy, his self deprecating sense of humor, and his distinctive voice are a legend on Capitol Hill. Even after having served 20 terms, his eyes are on new horizons. The next chapter. The next challenge.”
When Chairman Danny Bakewell presented Congressman Rangel with the award for exemplary courage in the time of need to our community and our nation,” Rangel received a well deserved standing ovation.
Rangel, who is part of the legendary “Gang of Four“, consisting of David Dinkins, Basil Paterson (father of Governor David Paterson) and former Mayor David Dinkins, and the late Percy Ellis Sutton, always makes reference to them in his speeches: “To my brother, David Dinkins who believed in me, we believed in each other and what we set out to do. "
Congressman Rangel also spoke of the legacy of those who had gone before him, including Amsterdam News journalist, the late Jimmy Booker; the Hon. Percy Ellis Sutton. “Some of the people that we’re most proud of are no longer here. Yet the dreams and the aspirations live on. The fact that during our lifetime we were able to get an African American elected; or that we’ve been covering the dreams and aspirations of people around the world, doesn’t mean that our kids are guaranteed a better life, education, and better home. There's still much work to be done. I feel so individually proud to receive this award because I receive it on behalf of so many people!”
Before we go forward, let me tell you a little about the symbology of the Legacy of Excellence Award. It was personally designed by NNPA National Board Chair Danny Bakewell. Not only is it one of the most distinctive, beautiful, and eloquent designs ever; is speaks volumes about the mind, heart and intense love and dedication that Danny Bakewell has for Black” people. The care consideration and artistry that went into the execution of this symbol is both majestic and touching; and at the same time motivational. Who wouldn’t want to be worthy of what that symbol stands for such that they likewise such an honor bestowed on them? Who wouldn’t want to have such a beautiful testimony to their accomplishment prominently displayed in a favored spot for friends, family, associates to see? It’s an incentive to do your utmost to be deemed worthy.
Per Bakewell, when he was coming up with the concept: "It was an American Eagle because it had to be a model of excellence. It had roots around a African drum; the roots are like the grapevine. Someone said like Tarzan? I said, no, grapevine, it’s how we Black people communicated. The drum, how we communicated when we were in Mother Africa. The Eagle is holding a newspaper in his talons; the object is that wherever we need the word; it has a pen in its beak. He carries the truth with him everywhere he goes.” This is the award that was bestowed upon Congressman Charles Rangel and Motown Music Mogul Berry Gordy.
Danny Bakewell’s reverence for Berry Gordy was unmistakable In fact, Bakewell and Gordy may well have what is called a mutual admiration society." Per Bakewell: “I want to bring a new perspective to the people who don’t know Berry Gordy. Yes he is the legendary promoter. He is a man of extraordinary means; he is an exquisite producer; but he is a man who has a heart. He is a man who has a profound sense of family; and a profound sense of tenacity and courage which is what this award is about. He is all that we know about him in the media; but he has all the things that we try to teach our children. He has all the things that we try to emulate to be better parents; to be better brothers and sisters.”
Bakewell recounted Gordy’s many accomplishments: “He brought to the world Smokey Robinson and The Miracles; he brought to the world Diana Ross and the Supremes; he brought to the world Mary Wells; Marvin Gaye, The Marvelettes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Martha and the Vandellas, Chuck Jackson, The Four Tops, Junior Walker and the All Stars; The Spinners; Tina Marie; the Isley Brothers, Gladys Knight and the Pips, The Jackson Five, Ashford and Simpson, Germaine Jackson; Commodores, Ric James, Lionel Ritchie, and the greatest entertainer in the world, Michael Jackson!!!”
After a standing ovation for the memory of King of Pop, who died suddenly a year ago, Bakewell continued: “So if those talents are geniuses, what is Berry Gordy? And he’s still doing the business of setting standards of excellence. And in many instances, despite the fact that he wants to bring us all along with him, he stands as a beacon light for all that we want to become. And as I inscribed in this award, ‘he put through his dreams;’ and that’s what people don’t understand. He puts through his dreams with excellence in mind, refusing to take a substandard; making people around him understand who he is and what he’s trying to do; what he’s trying to get them to understand. Many times people don’t understand what’s in his heart - the passion, the commitment that drives him… Berry Gordy created Motown and the entertainment industry became an entertainment legend. But Motown’s contribution to the world made him and American Icon. And it is for that reason that we love him and we honor him.”
As the voice over narration touted Gordy’s triumphs, image after image of the Motown greats flashed across the screen. “Fortunately for the young people in Detroit who wanted to pursue music Berry Gordy was there and he was the guy who had the dream the struggle could become truth.”
What followed was a musical tribute produced by Bakewell! A fantastic music documentary chronicling all the artists who came through Gordy and achieved greatness in their own right: Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles; Stevie Wonder; the Four Tops, the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Martha and the Vandellas, Gladys Knight and the Pips; Jackie Wilson, and on and on, that had the well dressed audience snapping their fingers and clapping in rhythm with the music.
(I want that DVD !! I would definitely play it over and over. It was both spectacular and nostalgic. Most of us could relate to at least one, if not all of the artists who have come thru Motown).
When Danny Bakewell presented Berry Gordy with NNPA Legacy of Excellence Award “for 50 years in the music industry as the founder of, and inspiration behind Motown and some of the most dynamic covey of Black artists ever” Berry Gordy was visibly moved -- both by the magnitude of the award, and the musical tribute itself.
After accepting the award, and gathering his composure, Gordy spoke very softly and humorously: “Incredible! This is a very important night for me for so many reasons. I hope I can convey them to you. So many things were happening to me sitting at my table, I was like writing stuff, scratching it out, writing stuff, scratching it out. And just when I thought it was really great, he said something about excellence, and I said I can’t have it, I gotta go back. So you put me in a lot of trouble.”
As the audience’s laughter subsided, Gordy continued, “The point is that I’m here tonight, and it really is an important night for me. I’m so thrilled to be here with so many of my friends; my fellow honoree, the great Charlie Rangel. Marc Marial President of the National Urban League, which is celebrating 100 years of excellence), David Dinkins, Xernona Clayton and others. And to receive this award from my dear, dear friend, Danny Bakewell is the icing on the cake.
“Danny Bakewell has been an idol of mine for many, many years for his commitment, and devotion to the many causes that he champions. I have never seen him lose. His leadership in some of the roughest situations that I’ve seen, I’ve never seen him fail when he was dealing with the worst of us, in terms of drug addicts, young kids going the wrong way; and he had a way of dealing with that -- giving them jobs, doing things, moving them into areas; teaching them things that they could do; things that they thought they were beneath, he taught them how to be great waiters, great busboys, great computer techs. All of these things I’ve seen him do over and over again. And I’ve never seen him fail. So he’s been one of my champions!
Then, with the quick wit and humor that has obviously sustained him through fifty years of putting together a musical empire, he switched gears: “Okay, Danny, enough about you! I’m going to talk about me. I was 11 years old when I was first introduced to the Black press. I worked for the Michigan Chronicle in Detroit. I thought of myself as a marketing genius; a distribution executive. My friends thought of me as a paper boy. And that was cool! Because I actually sold more papers than anybody else. So one weekend I took my show on the road, downtown to the white folks. I always felt our similarities were so much more powerful than our differences. And I was right. They loved me and they loved the Michigan Chronicle. I sold out in no time. I was in incredible shape. The next week, I took my brother Robert with me. Loaded with papers - we were going to clean up! We sold nothing. Not one. And it seemed to me, one Black kid was cute, but two were a threat to the neighborhood. That was my first real marketing lesson. Later when I started Motown, I didn’t put Black faces on some of the first album covers -- I wanted people to hear the music first. I worked, and once it did the rest was history.
“For me, our Motown 50th celebration was not about me or the Motown Superstars, it was more about the unsung heroes of Motown. The people behind the scenes who gave us love, support, and kept us going. And I’m here tonight to make sure that all of you know that you are a part of Motown’s great family.
“You, the Black Press, not only Detroit, but all over the country, have no idea how much you meant -- what your love meant, and your support meant to me and all of us at Motown at a time when we needed it most. You were there. And it was such a wonderful feeling.
“And, I’m somewhat sentimental, because Danny Bakewell gave me the opportunity to stand here and tell you that, because I never had a chance before. I know you’re here to honor me, and I appreciate that; but tonight I’m here to honor you. And it’s a big thrill for me just to stand here and look at all of you and see your faces and realize how much you meant to us in those early days, when we knew we could always count on you to bring out the truth, and to help us in whatever we were doing. And I didn’t even know some of the people I met tonight; and I thanked them personally, you know, and, uh, the Black Press of America is just awesome to Motown. I always think of you as part of the Motown family. And thank you again for allowing me this opportunity to say, Thank you, thank you, and again, thank you!”
It goes without saying that so many Black businessmen and women have no idea how much the positions they are currently enjoying are because of the vigilence and diligence of the Black press, who at every turn is countering and reversing race-drenched material cooked up by the mainstream media to disparage them. It was indeed gratifying to hear those words from Berry Gordy, who, even through his triumphs, has definitely been besieged with invectives and inuendos. It is even more gratifying to celebrate 50 years of an organization that took the music industry, stood it on its ear and made it bow to his standards.
The balance of the evening included the great Gerald Levert of the OJAYS, who definitely rocked the house and make the NNPA regret not have set up some space for dancing. The guests, especially we New Yorkers, finding it difficult to sit while Levert and his band were turning out so much soul, found spaces where ever we were, and “boogied” to the music (which of course was our way of communicating our appreciation for a wonderful evening and a job well done).
As stated in the previous section, the Black Press started in America 183 years ago. There are many who try to say it is no longer relevant or necessary because of computers or because we now have diversity. However, diversity never has and never will replace the virtue of having and maintaining your own means of communication.
Will Rogers (a personal hero of mine from Oklahoma) once said: “I don’t know much, all I know is what I read in the newspapers.” Well if the newspapers you get your information from are self affirming, pro Black and culturally aware and supportive, you will end up knowing a great deal.
Congratulations to the NNPA for keeping Black People Informed and involved for 183 years. Here's to 183 more.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
7.13.2010
A Great Read: Sister Betty Dopson's SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS WHO PROVE THAT AGE IS JUST A NUMBER
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Sister Betty Dopson has written her first book. Or maybe I should say “our” first book, because she wrote it for us -- we Black women, and it’s appropriately entitled: SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS WHO PROVE THAT AGE IS JUST A NUMBER.
Synchronicity is everything. I distinctly remember asking Sister Betty, at the recently held African Voices Awards Ceremony in June, what her beauty secrets were. Though she had just turned 76, she looks as though she was in her mid-40’s. She just smiled, but didn’t say a word about this book. So when I got the call from her to cover her book opening at Sista’s Place in Brooklyn, on July 10th, I thought, “how did she write that book so fast?”
Most people think of beauty in frivolous terms. But it’s much more than that. It’s the standard by which a whole race of people (us and other non-whites) have been weighed in the balance and found wanting by most mainstream (WASP) criteria.
But Sister Betty re-establishes the fact that beauty is not only more than skin deep, it goes to the very core of who we are. It includes Betty’s personal advice to Eclectically Black women of all ages and origins -- African, African American, Caribbean.
But the most significant feature is that she’s coupled it with interviews and profiles of Black women between the ages of 76 and 101 years of age, who are Black, proud, and beautiful. Is the list exhaustive? No. We each know someone, whether in our family or in our community who have defied the so-called accepted concepts about age and beauty, and maintained their youth, dignity, grace.
Among the women she included in the book are Dr. Adelaide Sanford, educator, and former New York State Regent, who is 84 years old; Agnes “Brooksy” Brooks, age 93; educator and cultural activist Nana Camille Yarborough, ?? Years old; actress Cecily Tyson, 76 years; the late Lena Horne, who lived to age 94; vocalist extraordinaire Aretha Franklin, ?? Years; and sister Lina Moore age 101; Sylvia Stokes, age 76; Mae Lewis, age 89.
In this book is the wisdom of ages being shared by a woman who walks her talk. Sister Betty Dopson is a natural beauty, who has maintained her beauty and her figure, while at the same time heading a proactive organization CEMOTAP, (Committee to Eliminate Media Offensive To African People) to protect us from invective media hype and onslaught of negativity that has been leveled at Black people from the day we were stolen from Africa and dragged kicking and screaming to these hostile shores.
Sister Betty is more than well aware of the distortions and lies that have been promulgated about Black women in the mainstream media; the false advertisements; the never ending barrage of crapola that passes for commercials that cause us to eat the wrong foods, chose cosmetics over natural beauty, and behavior patterns that don’t serve our highest and best good.
Sister Betty’s wisdom of ages is interlaced throughout each and every chapter, packed with advice for us no what our age, no matter where we find ourselves on the chronology of life. In fact, one of the first things she advises is that we stop lying about our age, and be proud of our ages regardless of what others may think.
And it truly is about time a candid, conversational, down to earth examination of what it is that we can do to mature, rather than just age, or get older. We’ve been mis-educated from a Eurocentric standpoint, which is counterintuitive to who we are genetically, culturally, and racially. Instead of celebrating our beauty and qualities, the mainstream has devoted most of its time to either denigrating us, or stealing our knowledge and appropriating it as though the concepts started with them.
This book is more a good study than it is just a great read -- and it is indeed a great read. Getting a peek into the lives of such great women, how they managed to stay so eternally beautiful -- look at Dr. Sanford, who dresses so beautifully, with those wonderful high cheekbones, and not a wrinkle on her face; or Viola Plummer, who is definitely an Ebony queen (no false eyelashes, no bleached blonde hair, no wigs here!) She also pays homage to First Lady Michelle Obama, who, she asserts, broke the mold for standards of Black femininity.
Issues such as whether or not going “blonde” really enhances who we are as Black women; concerns about dietary supplements, certain types of cosmetics, as well things that affect your mental, physical and spiritual health, are also included.
This book could not have come at a better time, with so many of our young women going down a path that is both hostile and negative; so full of hatred for their own people that their mannerisms toward their elders, and each other, borders on the confrontational.
In 1966 Stokely Carmichael enunciated the famous phrase, “Black is Beautiful!” Since then there has been a not-so-silent revolution going on among Black people; and SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS is the culmination of at least 40 years of a struggle for the hearts and minds of Black people to love themselves, and enhance what it is that we have so naturally, rather than abandoning it for other standards.
Other highlights include: Sharp Tongue and Attitude: Nothing Ages You Faster Than A Wicked Tongue; Melanin Cannot be Manufactured; Sisters Suffer More Intense Public Degradation; We Live in a Racist World; Aging is Natural and It Does Bring About Physical Changes; Don’t Hide Behind Excuses; Face and Conquer Your Fears; Search Your Soul and Find Out Who You Are.
Sister Betty extols our skin tones, full lips, wide baby-carrying hips, thick, dark hair, almond shaped eyes -- all attributes of our African beauty heritage, which became popular during the 60’s. It was during this period of Black power that we began to really focus on things African, and our residual African nature; wear clothes that more accentuated our figures, hair styles than enhanced our faces, walk more proudly, and wear jewelry that was more organic and reflective of our natural origins. We began learning the languages, dances, music, and customs of our African ancestors. We began tracing our African roots and routes.
In many instances, while we were becoming more in tuned with our African heritage, many of our African sisters (and brothers) were trying to look more European. So we had Black women from Africa wearing wigs, while we African Americans were going natural or wearing corn rows (they are not “French Braids“, by the way - the French had nothing to do with that African hair style); or extensions. Interesting contrast, what? SHARED SECRETS will be as useful for them as it is for African Americans born and raised in the Diaspora.
In fact SHARED SECRETS picks up the continuity of where most of us were before we were so rudely interrupted by the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and this current new millennium, with bombardments of the direct antithesis of all that brought us together as a people. So intense has been the brainwashing, CEMOTAP’s focus on combating it has been a 24/7 responsibility.
SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS should be a primer for women (and men) of all ages; but would be an excellent entre for pre-teens (as well as their own mothers, who are often the victims of media hype themselves). But it is an essential for those of us who are most assuredly planning to be here at least until age 100, and who may have already crossed the line of demarcation.
While we are all individuals, with our own personal issues and attributes, I think SHARED SECRETS has something for each and every one of us. And to make it even more action oriented, Sister Betty has included a helpful questionnaire to assist you in determining where you are (or need to be) on the continuum of ageless beauty. Her “Successful Sister Scale” can help the reader rate herself in how serious she is about living life to the fullest at least for a century.
Additionally, her “Age Busting Beauty Tips”, which I think should be framed and hung next to the mirror either in your bedroom or your bathroom (or both), are a must have.
I, for one, will be rolling around with this book for the next few weeks, adding to the repertoire of wisdom I’ve already gleaned from my beautiful mom, Ruby Love Dulan who, at 87, is still energetic, beautiful and sharp; my aunt Mary, her older sister, who at 88 drives a beautiful gold Cadillac Brougham and is living and thriving in Los Angeles. As a kid my maternal Grandmom Cornelia Gaines (a Cherokee beauty) and my paternal Grandmom Zady Dulan (Crow and Black), both beautiful women, taught me about cornstarch, baking soda, and herbs. In truth, we are surrounded by so many living, breathing examples of the old saying, “good Black don’t crack.”
Sister Betty states: “In order for a Sister to live a long, healthy, successful and purposeful life, she must maintain a healthy mental state, good personal health, a sense of humor, a cheerful personality, maintain good relationships with family and friends, enjoy sex, love a bunch of people and believe that she will live to reach the age of 100. “
While the media marvels on the likes of several white actresses who have made it to the age of 60, other timeless beauties, such as Sylvia Woods (83), owner and founder of Sylvia‘s Queen of Soul Food Restaurant, and former City Council rep, Una Clarke (??), are putting us (and them) to shame. While they may not have been included in the book, they definitely are well respected (loved), alive, well, active, involved and gorgeous. I often ask them the same question I posed to sister Betty Dopson and Adelaide Sanford: “What are your beauty secrets? How do you manage to maintain your youth; where did you get that fabulous outfit? I just love that jewelry! Where’d you get those shoes!! I love that hat!”
Now, with Sister Betty Dopson’s book, SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS WHO PROVE THAT AGE IS JUST A NUMBER I finally have an answer to those questions and so much more.
Check it out for yourselves. Look for Sister Betty Dopson this weekend, July 17 & 18, 2010, at the Harlem Book Fair, where she will be reading excerpts from her book and signing autographs.
Also check for other Black writers who will be participating in this wonderful annual event that showcases Black authors. It takes place on 135ths Street, from Malcolm X Blvd. to Fredrick Douglass.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Sister Betty Dopson has written her first book. Or maybe I should say “our” first book, because she wrote it for us -- we Black women, and it’s appropriately entitled: SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS WHO PROVE THAT AGE IS JUST A NUMBER.
Synchronicity is everything. I distinctly remember asking Sister Betty, at the recently held African Voices Awards Ceremony in June, what her beauty secrets were. Though she had just turned 76, she looks as though she was in her mid-40’s. She just smiled, but didn’t say a word about this book. So when I got the call from her to cover her book opening at Sista’s Place in Brooklyn, on July 10th, I thought, “how did she write that book so fast?”
Most people think of beauty in frivolous terms. But it’s much more than that. It’s the standard by which a whole race of people (us and other non-whites) have been weighed in the balance and found wanting by most mainstream (WASP) criteria.
But Sister Betty re-establishes the fact that beauty is not only more than skin deep, it goes to the very core of who we are. It includes Betty’s personal advice to Eclectically Black women of all ages and origins -- African, African American, Caribbean.
But the most significant feature is that she’s coupled it with interviews and profiles of Black women between the ages of 76 and 101 years of age, who are Black, proud, and beautiful. Is the list exhaustive? No. We each know someone, whether in our family or in our community who have defied the so-called accepted concepts about age and beauty, and maintained their youth, dignity, grace.
Among the women she included in the book are Dr. Adelaide Sanford, educator, and former New York State Regent, who is 84 years old; Agnes “Brooksy” Brooks, age 93; educator and cultural activist Nana Camille Yarborough, ?? Years old; actress Cecily Tyson, 76 years; the late Lena Horne, who lived to age 94; vocalist extraordinaire Aretha Franklin, ?? Years; and sister Lina Moore age 101; Sylvia Stokes, age 76; Mae Lewis, age 89.
In this book is the wisdom of ages being shared by a woman who walks her talk. Sister Betty Dopson is a natural beauty, who has maintained her beauty and her figure, while at the same time heading a proactive organization CEMOTAP, (Committee to Eliminate Media Offensive To African People) to protect us from invective media hype and onslaught of negativity that has been leveled at Black people from the day we were stolen from Africa and dragged kicking and screaming to these hostile shores.
Sister Betty is more than well aware of the distortions and lies that have been promulgated about Black women in the mainstream media; the false advertisements; the never ending barrage of crapola that passes for commercials that cause us to eat the wrong foods, chose cosmetics over natural beauty, and behavior patterns that don’t serve our highest and best good.
Sister Betty’s wisdom of ages is interlaced throughout each and every chapter, packed with advice for us no what our age, no matter where we find ourselves on the chronology of life. In fact, one of the first things she advises is that we stop lying about our age, and be proud of our ages regardless of what others may think.
And it truly is about time a candid, conversational, down to earth examination of what it is that we can do to mature, rather than just age, or get older. We’ve been mis-educated from a Eurocentric standpoint, which is counterintuitive to who we are genetically, culturally, and racially. Instead of celebrating our beauty and qualities, the mainstream has devoted most of its time to either denigrating us, or stealing our knowledge and appropriating it as though the concepts started with them.
This book is more a good study than it is just a great read -- and it is indeed a great read. Getting a peek into the lives of such great women, how they managed to stay so eternally beautiful -- look at Dr. Sanford, who dresses so beautifully, with those wonderful high cheekbones, and not a wrinkle on her face; or Viola Plummer, who is definitely an Ebony queen (no false eyelashes, no bleached blonde hair, no wigs here!) She also pays homage to First Lady Michelle Obama, who, she asserts, broke the mold for standards of Black femininity.
Issues such as whether or not going “blonde” really enhances who we are as Black women; concerns about dietary supplements, certain types of cosmetics, as well things that affect your mental, physical and spiritual health, are also included.
This book could not have come at a better time, with so many of our young women going down a path that is both hostile and negative; so full of hatred for their own people that their mannerisms toward their elders, and each other, borders on the confrontational.
In 1966 Stokely Carmichael enunciated the famous phrase, “Black is Beautiful!” Since then there has been a not-so-silent revolution going on among Black people; and SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS is the culmination of at least 40 years of a struggle for the hearts and minds of Black people to love themselves, and enhance what it is that we have so naturally, rather than abandoning it for other standards.
Other highlights include: Sharp Tongue and Attitude: Nothing Ages You Faster Than A Wicked Tongue; Melanin Cannot be Manufactured; Sisters Suffer More Intense Public Degradation; We Live in a Racist World; Aging is Natural and It Does Bring About Physical Changes; Don’t Hide Behind Excuses; Face and Conquer Your Fears; Search Your Soul and Find Out Who You Are.
Sister Betty extols our skin tones, full lips, wide baby-carrying hips, thick, dark hair, almond shaped eyes -- all attributes of our African beauty heritage, which became popular during the 60’s. It was during this period of Black power that we began to really focus on things African, and our residual African nature; wear clothes that more accentuated our figures, hair styles than enhanced our faces, walk more proudly, and wear jewelry that was more organic and reflective of our natural origins. We began learning the languages, dances, music, and customs of our African ancestors. We began tracing our African roots and routes.
In many instances, while we were becoming more in tuned with our African heritage, many of our African sisters (and brothers) were trying to look more European. So we had Black women from Africa wearing wigs, while we African Americans were going natural or wearing corn rows (they are not “French Braids“, by the way - the French had nothing to do with that African hair style); or extensions. Interesting contrast, what? SHARED SECRETS will be as useful for them as it is for African Americans born and raised in the Diaspora.
In fact SHARED SECRETS picks up the continuity of where most of us were before we were so rudely interrupted by the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and this current new millennium, with bombardments of the direct antithesis of all that brought us together as a people. So intense has been the brainwashing, CEMOTAP’s focus on combating it has been a 24/7 responsibility.
SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS should be a primer for women (and men) of all ages; but would be an excellent entre for pre-teens (as well as their own mothers, who are often the victims of media hype themselves). But it is an essential for those of us who are most assuredly planning to be here at least until age 100, and who may have already crossed the line of demarcation.
While we are all individuals, with our own personal issues and attributes, I think SHARED SECRETS has something for each and every one of us. And to make it even more action oriented, Sister Betty has included a helpful questionnaire to assist you in determining where you are (or need to be) on the continuum of ageless beauty. Her “Successful Sister Scale” can help the reader rate herself in how serious she is about living life to the fullest at least for a century.
Additionally, her “Age Busting Beauty Tips”, which I think should be framed and hung next to the mirror either in your bedroom or your bathroom (or both), are a must have.
I, for one, will be rolling around with this book for the next few weeks, adding to the repertoire of wisdom I’ve already gleaned from my beautiful mom, Ruby Love Dulan who, at 87, is still energetic, beautiful and sharp; my aunt Mary, her older sister, who at 88 drives a beautiful gold Cadillac Brougham and is living and thriving in Los Angeles. As a kid my maternal Grandmom Cornelia Gaines (a Cherokee beauty) and my paternal Grandmom Zady Dulan (Crow and Black), both beautiful women, taught me about cornstarch, baking soda, and herbs. In truth, we are surrounded by so many living, breathing examples of the old saying, “good Black don’t crack.”
Sister Betty states: “In order for a Sister to live a long, healthy, successful and purposeful life, she must maintain a healthy mental state, good personal health, a sense of humor, a cheerful personality, maintain good relationships with family and friends, enjoy sex, love a bunch of people and believe that she will live to reach the age of 100. “
While the media marvels on the likes of several white actresses who have made it to the age of 60, other timeless beauties, such as Sylvia Woods (83), owner and founder of Sylvia‘s Queen of Soul Food Restaurant, and former City Council rep, Una Clarke (??), are putting us (and them) to shame. While they may not have been included in the book, they definitely are well respected (loved), alive, well, active, involved and gorgeous. I often ask them the same question I posed to sister Betty Dopson and Adelaide Sanford: “What are your beauty secrets? How do you manage to maintain your youth; where did you get that fabulous outfit? I just love that jewelry! Where’d you get those shoes!! I love that hat!”
Now, with Sister Betty Dopson’s book, SHARED SECRETS OF ELDER SISTERS WHO PROVE THAT AGE IS JUST A NUMBER I finally have an answer to those questions and so much more.
Check it out for yourselves. Look for Sister Betty Dopson this weekend, July 17 & 18, 2010, at the Harlem Book Fair, where she will be reading excerpts from her book and signing autographs.
Also check for other Black writers who will be participating in this wonderful annual event that showcases Black authors. It takes place on 135ths Street, from Malcolm X Blvd. to Fredrick Douglass.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
7.10.2010
EVENT ALERT EVENT ALERT PLUS: HARLEM WEEK STARTS JULY 15!!!
by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
1. JULY 12 (Monday)
'10 IMAGENATION OUTDOOR FILM & MUSIC FESTIVAL
FREE MOVIES AND MUSIC IN THE PARKS!
"GOOD HAIR" w/ Black Sheep ·
Mon., July 12th @ St. Nicholas Park
7:30 BlackSheep performs
8:30 Good Hair Screening
135th St. & St. Nicholas Ave
"GOOD HAIR" follows Chris Rock on a raucous and sometimes misguided adventure prompted by Rock's daughter approaching him and asking, "Daddy, how come I don't have good hair?" Hair care professionals, beauty shop and barbershop patrons, as well as celebrities- including Ice-T, Nia Long, Paul Mooney, Raven Symoné, Maya Angelou, Salt n Pepa, Eve and Reverend Al Sharpton- all weigh in. Directed by Jeff Stillson.
Music: Dres of Black Sheep
Hear classics like "The Choice is Yours" and songs from Black Sheep's new album From the Black Pool of Genius.
2. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT: HARLEM WEEK BEGINS JULY 15 THRU AUGUST 27!
Where did the time go. For details, calendar and activities log on to
www.harlemweek.org
3. JULY 15
AIN'T I A WOMAN - MOCADA (Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts
Opening reception 11A-8P
Free to the Public
Features African Diasporan Women via paintings, video and mixed media; artists include damali abrams, Eric Alugas, Kimberly Becoat, among others.
James E. Davis Building
80 Hanson Place
Brooklyn, NY
4. JULY 15TH
IMAGENATION:
Still Bill w/Jeremy James· Thurs., July 15th @ St. Nicholas Park
7:30 pm Jeremy James Performs/ 8:30 Screening: STILL BILL is an intimate portrait of soul legend BILL WITHERS, best known for his classics "Ain't No Sunshine," "Lean On Me," "Lovely Day," "Grandma's Hands," and "Just the Two of Us." STILL BILL presents the story of an artist who truly understands the heart and soul of a man. Directed by Damani Baker and Alex Vlack.
Music: Soul-singer Jeremy James
Jeremy James' sound reminds us of classic Isley Brothers and Stevie Wonder at their sweet, sweet best.
* Held in Marcus Garvey Park as part of the Historic Harlem Parks Coalition Film Festival Screening!
IMAGENATION'S FULL SCHEDULE:
* Monday, July 12 - Good Hair with performance by Black Sheep
* Thursday, July 15* - Still Bill with performance by Jeremy James
* Monday, July 19 - Freedom Riders with performance by Nakia Henry
* Monday, July 26 - The Spirit of Salsa (NYLIFF screening & HBO) with live salsa! (Raindate August 2)
* Wednesday, July 28 - The Other Side of the Water with performance by DJARARA
* Thursday, July 29 - The Princess and the Frog
* Monday, August 2 - Los Que Se Quedan (Those Who Remain
* Monday, August 9 - Reel Sisters of the Diaspora film screening
* Saturday, August 14 - The Rise and Fall of Miss Thang with live tap dancing!
* Sunday, August 15 - Soundtrack for A Revolution preceded by a special tribute to Lena Horne
* Monday, August 16 - Rise-Up with performance by Judah Tribe
SPECIAL THANKS!:
ImageNation founder Moikgantsi Kgama was interviewed live last night on:
- BLACK BEAT NEW YORK: The Flo Wiley Show WHCR 90.3 FM & www.whcr.org;
- Harlem: Roots and Beyond on www.HarlemTalkRadio.com. Check the interview out on the web!
5. July 14, 2010 8 pm Sharp
J-Harris Presents
LOVEJONESNYC @ GREENHOUSE NYC
150 Varick St.
(Btwn Vandam & Spring Sts./C/E to Spring, 1 to Houston )
Doors Open: 7:30 pm Red Carpet & Happy Hour
Love Admission: $20 (Purchase at door, 1st come-1st seated)
Lovers of True Art...
Come Experience a Sexy Fusion of Live Music,
Poetry, Dance, Fashion & Live Art with the World’s Most Inspiring Artists
…Like Vegas in NYC
***This Show will be taped & featured on a major TV network***
(Includes FREE All You Can Eat Dinner Buffet from Jacob’s Soul Food Restaurant)
Performances by Singer/Songwriters:
Brian Slade aka Tonex, Vassy &, J-Harris
Special Performances by:
Cori Robinson, Devin Snow, Melissa Musique, Dawn Tallman,
Jayms Madison, Danni Ai & Kimberly Nichole
#1 Latin MySpace Artist: Somaya “Boss” Reece
Soulful Storyteller: Nicole Lyricc
Saxophonist: Lakecia Benjamin
Live Painting & Auction by: Fernando Mora
LoveJonesNYC Showgirls: LaShonna, Daisha, J Lyn & Joy
Fashion Show by: Goldspun
Special Celebrity Guests &
Open Expressions by YOU to the theme of Love Jones!
6. WINGATE PARK WINGATE PARK WINGATE PARK
BROOKLYN BOROUGH PRESIDENT MARTY MARKOWITZ HOSTS
THE 2010 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CONCERT SERIES
ALL SHOWS FREE!
July 12, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic/The Ohio Players
July 19, AN EVENING WITH TONI BRAXTON
July 26 Musiq Soulchild, Crisette Michele
August 2, Salt-n-Pepa, Naughty by Nature, Slick Rick
August 9, AN EVENING WITH ARETHA FRANKLIN
August 16, Bebe & Cece Winans, Fred Hammond
August 23, Sean Paul, Mighty Sparrow
7. RUSTIK RESTAURANT
Every First Tuesday of the month
Eric Frazier's Open mic jazz Jam session
Rustik Restaurant Presents:
The Eric Frazier Trio
Join us & The host of musicians & singers who come to Jam!
471 Dekalb Avenue bet Franklin & Kent Ave
Information: 347-406-9700
CD's Available for Purchase!
$5.00 Cover
Every First Tuesday
Bring your spirit
There's music to play
Eat fine food
wear your Mashood
Establish a link
Come sing and drink!
8. July 17 3P
"Haiku and Handgrenades: Sonia Sanchez at 70"
Host: DuEwa Frazier
Presenting:
The Harlem Book Fair's Tribute to Legendary Poet
Sonia Sanchez book cover morning haiku
Sonia Sanchez
3M - 5PM Saturday, July 17, 2010 at The Thurgood Marshall Academy 200 W. 135th St.
Poet Haki R.Madhubuti and special guests present tributes!
Free!
African drums led by Eric Frazier!
Information: www.litnoirepublishing.com
9. Saturday, July 24 4PM - 7:30PM , 2010
The Fort Greene Festival Jazz Concert Series!
Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, NY, Dekalb Ave. & Washington Place
Free!
Featuring:
The Eric Frazier Quintet
ERIC FRAZIERs, Vocals, Percussion (8 recordings to date
including "Live @ Cecil's Jazz Club
With stars Cynthia Holiday - Sensational Vocalist! current recording "All The Way"
DuEwa Frazier - Spoken Word Artist & Vocalist, NAACP Image Award Nominee for book
"Check The Rhyme, an Anthology of Female Poets & Emcees"
Danny Mixon - Legendary pianist & Organist, Current recording "On My Way"
Gene Ghee tenor Sax
Gene Ghee - Illuminating tenor Sax!
Current recording "Live at Cecil's Jazz Club with The Eric Frazier Quintet Volume 1 & 2
Larry on drums
Larry Williams - Exciting Drums!
Current recording "Live at Cecil's Jazz Club with The Eric Frazier Quintet Volume 1 & 2
Eric Lemon Bass
Eric Lemon - highly reputed Bass! current Recording "Find Yourself, Then Find Me" by Eric Frazier
August 28, 2010
Information: 718-797-2459, www.ericfraziermusic.com
10. JULY 17
Clock Strkes Thirteen...Again!
Opening reception of Clock Strikes Thirteen…Again!
(A Reprise of the Women’s History Month Commemoration) Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Bldg.,
163 W. 125th Street, 2nd Floor Art Gallery on Saturday July 17, 2010 from 2:00p.m. 5:30 p.m.
Join mixed-media artist Wilhelmina Obatola Grant for an art talk and refreshments at the opening reception of visual art exhibition Clock Strikes Thirteen, an homage to 13 well-known Black women who lost their lives to breast cancer.
The exhibition features depictions of Fannie Lou Hamer, Hattie McDaniel, Audre Lorde, Minnie Riperton, Naomi Sims, Danitra Vance, June Jordan, Rosalind Cash, Syreeta Wright, Patricia Roberts Harris, Roxie Roker, Shirley Horn, and Alaina Reed Amini. Clock Strikes Thirteen celebrates these trailblazing Black female ancestors who have impacted society significantly, and who would have undoubtedly made even greater contributions if they had lived longer, healthier lives. Disturbingly, only four of these heroines lived past age 60.
Click link to view 2 minute video from previous event http://columbianewstonight.org/2010/03/12/art-exhibit-in-harlem-promotes-breast-cancer-awareness.
Clock Strikes Thirteen is on display alongside other assemblage art works which address early detection, advocacy issues and cancer survivorship from July 1-31, 2010 by appointment by emailing: wgrant56@aol.com Admission is free. Photo I.D. is required to enter the building.
SUNDAY, JULY 18 2P-5P
HAITI FUNDRAISER AND CLOTHING DRIVE sponsored by
DELTA SIGMA THETA (BROOKLYN ALUMNAE CHAPTER)
At Crow Hill Bistro (formerly Tavern on Nostrand)
813 Nostrand Ave; bet. Union & President (#2 to President or #3 to Nostrand)
Bring clean, gently used clothes, books, supplies, etc.
Enjoy good food, camaraderie, friends
Sponsored by DST Social Action Committee
AND IN CASE YOU THOUGHT I FORGOT:
EVERY WEDNESDAY IS JAZZMOBILE
11. JAZZMOBILE AT GRANTS TOMB IN HARLEM
122 ST AND RIVERSIDE DRIVE
6P-9P
BRING YOUR SNACKS, YOUR SEATS, AND YOUR LOVE OF MUSIC AND
BLACK PEOPLE. IT'S THE GREATEST GATHERING OF US IN HARLEM
FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE LOG ON TO www.jazzmobile.org
THE JAZZMOBILE SUMMERFEST 2010 SCHEDULE FOLLOWS
JAZZMOBiLE VOCAL COMPETITION
MANHATTAN FINALS, WINNER CHOSEN Mon., July 26 Uptown Grand 6 P
2110 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.
HOST: Jazzmobile, Inc with Uptown Grand
Admission/Table Fees Apply, RSVP Required
866-628-5052
Harlem International Jazz Festival 2010
Jul 6 St. Nicholas Park – 135th St
MANHATTAN MICHAEL VAREKAMP (THE NETHERLAND)
Wed Jul 7 Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr
MANHATTAN ARTURO O’FARRILL ( MEXICO )
Thu Jul 8 Morningside Park - 114th St Entrance
MANHATTAN BUYU AMBROISE (HAITI/CONGO)
7 PM Fri Jul 9 Jackie Robinson Park – 148th St & Bradhurst
MANHATTAN YOSVANY TERRY ( CUBA )
The performance will be followed by a screening of
Youssou N’Dour’s “I Bring What I Love” presented by the Maysles Cinema and Reel Harlem
7 PM Sat Jul 10
MANHATTAN GREAT JAZZ ON THE GREAT HILL
Jimmy Heath, Bobby Sanabria ( Puerto Rico ),
2 PM Dion Parson /21st Century Band w/ Michael
Varekamp (Caribbean/The Netherlands ),
Brianna Thomas (2009 Vocal Competition Winner)
Central Park
HOST: Jazzmobile, Inc. in partnership with the Central Park Conservancy
SUMMERFEST 2010
Sat Jul 10 3P
Boncella Lewis
McDonough St between Ralph & Patchen, Brooklyn
HOST: McDonough Block Assoc.
Mon Jul 12 7P Co-op City-Greenway @Section V, Bronx NY
Jose Obando
HOST: Black Forum of Co-op City
Tue Jul 13 7P
Houston Person (WITH A SPECIAL BILLY TAYLOR SET)
47th St between 9th & 10th Aves, Manhattan
HOST: 47/48th St Block Assoc.
Wed Jul 14 7P
Manhattan Winard Harper (WITH A SPECIAL BILLY
TAYLOR SET)
Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr. Harlem USA
HOST: Jazzmobile, Inc.
Thu Jul 15 7P
Akiko TsurUga Bay St – Lighthouse, Staten Island
HOST: Downtown Staten Island Council
Fri Jul 16 7P
Gregory Generet
Jackie Robinson Park – 148th St & Bradhurst, Manhattan
Manhattan Eunice Newkirk
Wed Jul 21 7P
Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr.
Manhattan Harlem Renaissance Orchestra
Wed Jul 28 7P
Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr
12. SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS TO BE THERE:
JULY 29 P - 8P
SCHOMBURG CENTER FOR RESEARCH IN BLACK CULTURE
135th & Malcolm X Boulevard (Lenox to the uninitiated)
What's up, where we headed, who does the Schomburg belong to?
Howard Dodson is stepping down; who can righteously assume the
helm with the same love, quality and dignity he has devoted for
over 25 years. (Hint: Just say NO to Henry Louis Gates)
We have to make sure that we are involved in
this pivotal decision.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson:
1. JULY 12 (Monday)
'10 IMAGENATION OUTDOOR FILM & MUSIC FESTIVAL
FREE MOVIES AND MUSIC IN THE PARKS!
"GOOD HAIR" w/ Black Sheep ·
Mon., July 12th @ St. Nicholas Park
7:30 BlackSheep performs
8:30 Good Hair Screening
135th St. & St. Nicholas Ave
"GOOD HAIR" follows Chris Rock on a raucous and sometimes misguided adventure prompted by Rock's daughter approaching him and asking, "Daddy, how come I don't have good hair?" Hair care professionals, beauty shop and barbershop patrons, as well as celebrities- including Ice-T, Nia Long, Paul Mooney, Raven Symoné, Maya Angelou, Salt n Pepa, Eve and Reverend Al Sharpton- all weigh in. Directed by Jeff Stillson.
Music: Dres of Black Sheep
Hear classics like "The Choice is Yours" and songs from Black Sheep's new album From the Black Pool of Genius.
2. CAN YOU BELIEVE IT: HARLEM WEEK BEGINS JULY 15 THRU AUGUST 27!
Where did the time go. For details, calendar and activities log on to
www.harlemweek.org
3. JULY 15
AIN'T I A WOMAN - MOCADA (Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts
Opening reception 11A-8P
Free to the Public
Features African Diasporan Women via paintings, video and mixed media; artists include damali abrams, Eric Alugas, Kimberly Becoat, among others.
James E. Davis Building
80 Hanson Place
Brooklyn, NY
4. JULY 15TH
IMAGENATION:
Still Bill w/Jeremy James· Thurs., July 15th @ St. Nicholas Park
7:30 pm Jeremy James Performs/ 8:30 Screening: STILL BILL is an intimate portrait of soul legend BILL WITHERS, best known for his classics "Ain't No Sunshine," "Lean On Me," "Lovely Day," "Grandma's Hands," and "Just the Two of Us." STILL BILL presents the story of an artist who truly understands the heart and soul of a man. Directed by Damani Baker and Alex Vlack.
Music: Soul-singer Jeremy James
Jeremy James' sound reminds us of classic Isley Brothers and Stevie Wonder at their sweet, sweet best.
* Held in Marcus Garvey Park as part of the Historic Harlem Parks Coalition Film Festival Screening!
IMAGENATION'S FULL SCHEDULE:
* Monday, July 12 - Good Hair with performance by Black Sheep
* Thursday, July 15* - Still Bill with performance by Jeremy James
* Monday, July 19 - Freedom Riders with performance by Nakia Henry
* Monday, July 26 - The Spirit of Salsa (NYLIFF screening & HBO) with live salsa! (Raindate August 2)
* Wednesday, July 28 - The Other Side of the Water with performance by DJARARA
* Thursday, July 29 - The Princess and the Frog
* Monday, August 2 - Los Que Se Quedan (Those Who Remain
* Monday, August 9 - Reel Sisters of the Diaspora film screening
* Saturday, August 14 - The Rise and Fall of Miss Thang with live tap dancing!
* Sunday, August 15 - Soundtrack for A Revolution preceded by a special tribute to Lena Horne
* Monday, August 16 - Rise-Up with performance by Judah Tribe
SPECIAL THANKS!:
ImageNation founder Moikgantsi Kgama was interviewed live last night on:
- BLACK BEAT NEW YORK: The Flo Wiley Show WHCR 90.3 FM & www.whcr.org;
- Harlem: Roots and Beyond on www.HarlemTalkRadio.com. Check the interview out on the web!
5. July 14, 2010 8 pm Sharp
J-Harris Presents
LOVEJONESNYC @ GREENHOUSE NYC
150 Varick St.
(Btwn Vandam & Spring Sts./C/E to Spring, 1 to Houston )
Doors Open: 7:30 pm Red Carpet & Happy Hour
Love Admission: $20 (Purchase at door, 1st come-1st seated)
Lovers of True Art...
Come Experience a Sexy Fusion of Live Music,
Poetry, Dance, Fashion & Live Art with the World’s Most Inspiring Artists
…Like Vegas in NYC
***This Show will be taped & featured on a major TV network***
(Includes FREE All You Can Eat Dinner Buffet from Jacob’s Soul Food Restaurant)
Performances by Singer/Songwriters:
Brian Slade aka Tonex, Vassy &, J-Harris
Special Performances by:
Cori Robinson, Devin Snow, Melissa Musique, Dawn Tallman,
Jayms Madison, Danni Ai & Kimberly Nichole
#1 Latin MySpace Artist: Somaya “Boss” Reece
Soulful Storyteller: Nicole Lyricc
Saxophonist: Lakecia Benjamin
Live Painting & Auction by: Fernando Mora
LoveJonesNYC Showgirls: LaShonna, Daisha, J Lyn & Joy
Fashion Show by: Goldspun
Special Celebrity Guests &
Open Expressions by YOU to the theme of Love Jones!
6. WINGATE PARK WINGATE PARK WINGATE PARK
BROOKLYN BOROUGH PRESIDENT MARTY MARKOWITZ HOSTS
THE 2010 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CONCERT SERIES
ALL SHOWS FREE!
July 12, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic/The Ohio Players
July 19, AN EVENING WITH TONI BRAXTON
July 26 Musiq Soulchild, Crisette Michele
August 2, Salt-n-Pepa, Naughty by Nature, Slick Rick
August 9, AN EVENING WITH ARETHA FRANKLIN
August 16, Bebe & Cece Winans, Fred Hammond
August 23, Sean Paul, Mighty Sparrow
7. RUSTIK RESTAURANT
Every First Tuesday of the month
Eric Frazier's Open mic jazz Jam session
Rustik Restaurant Presents:
The Eric Frazier Trio
Join us & The host of musicians & singers who come to Jam!
471 Dekalb Avenue bet Franklin & Kent Ave
Information: 347-406-9700
CD's Available for Purchase!
$5.00 Cover
Every First Tuesday
Bring your spirit
There's music to play
Eat fine food
wear your Mashood
Establish a link
Come sing and drink!
8. July 17 3P
"Haiku and Handgrenades: Sonia Sanchez at 70"
Host: DuEwa Frazier
Presenting:
The Harlem Book Fair's Tribute to Legendary Poet
Sonia Sanchez book cover morning haiku
Sonia Sanchez
3M - 5PM Saturday, July 17, 2010 at The Thurgood Marshall Academy 200 W. 135th St.
Poet Haki R.Madhubuti and special guests present tributes!
Free!
African drums led by Eric Frazier!
Information: www.litnoirepublishing.com
9. Saturday, July 24 4PM - 7:30PM , 2010
The Fort Greene Festival Jazz Concert Series!
Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, NY, Dekalb Ave. & Washington Place
Free!
Featuring:
The Eric Frazier Quintet
ERIC FRAZIERs, Vocals, Percussion (8 recordings to date
including "Live @ Cecil's Jazz Club
With stars Cynthia Holiday - Sensational Vocalist! current recording "All The Way"
DuEwa Frazier - Spoken Word Artist & Vocalist, NAACP Image Award Nominee for book
"Check The Rhyme, an Anthology of Female Poets & Emcees"
Danny Mixon - Legendary pianist & Organist, Current recording "On My Way"
Gene Ghee tenor Sax
Gene Ghee - Illuminating tenor Sax!
Current recording "Live at Cecil's Jazz Club with The Eric Frazier Quintet Volume 1 & 2
Larry on drums
Larry Williams - Exciting Drums!
Current recording "Live at Cecil's Jazz Club with The Eric Frazier Quintet Volume 1 & 2
Eric Lemon Bass
Eric Lemon - highly reputed Bass! current Recording "Find Yourself, Then Find Me" by Eric Frazier
August 28, 2010
Information: 718-797-2459, www.ericfraziermusic.com
10. JULY 17
Clock Strkes Thirteen...Again!
Opening reception of Clock Strikes Thirteen…Again!
(A Reprise of the Women’s History Month Commemoration) Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Bldg.,
163 W. 125th Street, 2nd Floor Art Gallery on Saturday July 17, 2010 from 2:00p.m. 5:30 p.m.
Join mixed-media artist Wilhelmina Obatola Grant for an art talk and refreshments at the opening reception of visual art exhibition Clock Strikes Thirteen, an homage to 13 well-known Black women who lost their lives to breast cancer.
The exhibition features depictions of Fannie Lou Hamer, Hattie McDaniel, Audre Lorde, Minnie Riperton, Naomi Sims, Danitra Vance, June Jordan, Rosalind Cash, Syreeta Wright, Patricia Roberts Harris, Roxie Roker, Shirley Horn, and Alaina Reed Amini. Clock Strikes Thirteen celebrates these trailblazing Black female ancestors who have impacted society significantly, and who would have undoubtedly made even greater contributions if they had lived longer, healthier lives. Disturbingly, only four of these heroines lived past age 60.
Click link to view 2 minute video from previous event http://columbianewstonight.org/2010/03/12/art-exhibit-in-harlem-promotes-breast-cancer-awareness.
Clock Strikes Thirteen is on display alongside other assemblage art works which address early detection, advocacy issues and cancer survivorship from July 1-31, 2010 by appointment by emailing: wgrant56@aol.com Admission is free. Photo I.D. is required to enter the building.
SUNDAY, JULY 18 2P-5P
HAITI FUNDRAISER AND CLOTHING DRIVE sponsored by
DELTA SIGMA THETA (BROOKLYN ALUMNAE CHAPTER)
At Crow Hill Bistro (formerly Tavern on Nostrand)
813 Nostrand Ave; bet. Union & President (#2 to President or #3 to Nostrand)
Bring clean, gently used clothes, books, supplies, etc.
Enjoy good food, camaraderie, friends
Sponsored by DST Social Action Committee
AND IN CASE YOU THOUGHT I FORGOT:
EVERY WEDNESDAY IS JAZZMOBILE
11. JAZZMOBILE AT GRANTS TOMB IN HARLEM
122 ST AND RIVERSIDE DRIVE
6P-9P
BRING YOUR SNACKS, YOUR SEATS, AND YOUR LOVE OF MUSIC AND
BLACK PEOPLE. IT'S THE GREATEST GATHERING OF US IN HARLEM
FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE LOG ON TO www.jazzmobile.org
THE JAZZMOBILE SUMMERFEST 2010 SCHEDULE FOLLOWS
JAZZMOBiLE VOCAL COMPETITION
MANHATTAN FINALS, WINNER CHOSEN Mon., July 26 Uptown Grand 6 P
2110 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.
HOST: Jazzmobile, Inc with Uptown Grand
Admission/Table Fees Apply, RSVP Required
866-628-5052
Harlem International Jazz Festival 2010
Jul 6 St. Nicholas Park – 135th St
MANHATTAN MICHAEL VAREKAMP (THE NETHERLAND)
Wed Jul 7 Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr
MANHATTAN ARTURO O’FARRILL ( MEXICO )
Thu Jul 8 Morningside Park - 114th St Entrance
MANHATTAN BUYU AMBROISE (HAITI/CONGO)
7 PM Fri Jul 9 Jackie Robinson Park – 148th St & Bradhurst
MANHATTAN YOSVANY TERRY ( CUBA )
The performance will be followed by a screening of
Youssou N’Dour’s “I Bring What I Love” presented by the Maysles Cinema and Reel Harlem
7 PM Sat Jul 10
MANHATTAN GREAT JAZZ ON THE GREAT HILL
Jimmy Heath, Bobby Sanabria ( Puerto Rico ),
2 PM Dion Parson /21st Century Band w/ Michael
Varekamp (Caribbean/The Netherlands ),
Brianna Thomas (2009 Vocal Competition Winner)
Central Park
HOST: Jazzmobile, Inc. in partnership with the Central Park Conservancy
SUMMERFEST 2010
Sat Jul 10 3P
Boncella Lewis
McDonough St between Ralph & Patchen, Brooklyn
HOST: McDonough Block Assoc.
Mon Jul 12 7P Co-op City-Greenway @Section V, Bronx NY
Jose Obando
HOST: Black Forum of Co-op City
Tue Jul 13 7P
Houston Person (WITH A SPECIAL BILLY TAYLOR SET)
47th St between 9th & 10th Aves, Manhattan
HOST: 47/48th St Block Assoc.
Wed Jul 14 7P
Manhattan Winard Harper (WITH A SPECIAL BILLY
TAYLOR SET)
Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr. Harlem USA
HOST: Jazzmobile, Inc.
Thu Jul 15 7P
Akiko TsurUga Bay St – Lighthouse, Staten Island
HOST: Downtown Staten Island Council
Fri Jul 16 7P
Gregory Generet
Jackie Robinson Park – 148th St & Bradhurst, Manhattan
Manhattan Eunice Newkirk
Wed Jul 21 7P
Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr.
Manhattan Harlem Renaissance Orchestra
Wed Jul 28 7P
Grant’s Tomb – 122nd St & Riverside Dr
12. SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS TO BE THERE:
JULY 29 P - 8P
SCHOMBURG CENTER FOR RESEARCH IN BLACK CULTURE
135th & Malcolm X Boulevard (Lenox to the uninitiated)
What's up, where we headed, who does the Schomburg belong to?
Howard Dodson is stepping down; who can righteously assume the
helm with the same love, quality and dignity he has devoted for
over 25 years. (Hint: Just say NO to Henry Louis Gates)
We have to make sure that we are involved in
this pivotal decision.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson:
7.09.2010
EVENT ALERT EVENT ALERT DON'T MISS THIS JAM PACKED WEEK END
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This week end is packed to back to back. So I didn't try
to list everything. Just a few things you may have overlooked
You know how we do in NYC, some from Column A, Some from Column B.
There's literally 5 activities every 30 seconds in NYC, so enjoy,
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
SATURDAY JULY 10, 2010
1. Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
& THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS FOUNDATION
Present
ECONOMIC POWER FORUM
Small Business Start Up Advice; Community Development and Housing
Initiatives, Fed Resources for Community Development
9A - 5P
St. Francis College
180 Remsen Street
Brooklyn, NY
Register online: www.cbcfinc.org or call 877-296-1758
2. Haitian Redevelopment Forum
10A-2P
Medgar Evers College
1650 Bedford Ave.
Saturday, July 10th Salon at the East Harlem Space!
Cool & comforting...Get your CREATIVE on!
Though I can't guarantee you an absolutely luscious, crisp, clear day on July 10th, I can guarantee a cool space inside, great new creations by textile artist Ella Murray and new Mwimbaji Earth Jewelry pieces, as well as hot, sultry sounds by vocalist Joyce Griffen and pianist Yoko Kawaguchi! Your taste buds and your spirit will be re-freshed in this warm-yet-cool environment -- we hope you'll stop by!
Peace,
Barbara
EAST HARLEM SALON SPACE:
1441A Fifth Avenue, ground floor
Between 117th/118th Streets (2nd house in from 117th) - terra-cotta brownstones wrap around the block
2, 3 or 6 to 116th Street
Walk to 5th Avenue
North on 5th, cross over 117th St., 2nd house on your right
646-244-0838
3. JoyStar (Joyce Griffen)
Come join us at July's Salon!
Saturday, July 10th
1:00PM to 6:00PM
East Harlem Salon Space
July's salon features textile artist Ella Murray (Ella Murray Designs) and Mwimbaji Earth Jewelry designer Barbara Sfraga (please scroll down for details about artists). Refreshments will be served, and musical performance is scheduled for 4-5PM. Come earlier for the hang, to check out our new designs and meet/visit with friends!
PERFORMANCE:
Lauded by jazz critic Stanley Crouch, Vocalist-Actress-Songwriter Joyce Griffen started out as an actress early on, acing her audition and joining the Prince Street Players, which led to a featured role in four CBS-TV children’s specials. Joyce performs with Pianist-Composer Yoko Kawaguch.
www.myspace.com/joycegriffen
Featuring the Wearable Art Creations of Ella Murray Designs: a combination of various weaves and patterns applied with textured yarns and an array of colors to create my COUTURE designs. Mixed media art, pins, men’s and women’s fashions. Ms. Murray is recognized by the Smithsonian as Textile Artist/Weaver (African American Archives). Stevie Wonder sports one of Ella Murray’s Kai Mask pins!
Barbara Sfraga's Mwimbaji Earth JewelryDeep root energy bursting through sidewalks, morphing into gnarled and knotty branches winding their way towards the sun...I collect gifts that have fallen from story-telling trees - some seasoned by the sea. http://www.barbarasfraga.com • http://openshoppe.net
646-244-0838 for more info.
4. Book Signing at Sister’s Place
Betty Dopson co-founder of CEMOTAP
“Shared Secrets of Sacred Sisters Who Prove
That Age is Just a Number”
3P-5P
456 Nostrand Ave (at Jefferson)
Brooklyn, NY 718-398-1766
5. Empowerment Hour Online University
EMPOWERING THE WORLD IN 2010 Saturday, July 10th
(6pm EST/5pm CST) program www.kermiteady.com
This week Charles Barron. Councilman Barron, candidate for Governor of the State of New York running against Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. The Councilman is also looking to gather 50,000 signatures to create the Freedom Party for the upcoming Gubernatorial election.
Andrew Cuomo does not have any African Americans on his ticket, and it's high time that we had a statewide African American candidate. Councilman Barron is the only politician in the State of NY that represents the African American Community. We need him now more than ever before.
Call In Number 646-716-7472
Callers are invited to call in and let their voices be heard.
Callers can also send e-mails prior to the program to info@kermiteady.com with the Subject Line
"Empowerment Hour Questions"
7. Party At Creole's 118th & Third Ave. East Harlem
10P - 3A
$15.00 pp
------------------------------------------------------------------
SUNDAY, JULY 11, 2010
1. Freedom Party News
Everyone Spread the Word
“Meet the Freedom Party Team”
Sunday July 11th,2010
4:30pm
Siloam Presbyterian Church
260 Jefferson Ave.(Corner of Marcy Ave.)
Brooklyn, NY 11216
Councilman Charles Barron- Candidate for Governor
Eva M. Doyle- Candidate for Lt. Governor
Roman J. Jimenez- Attorney General
Pick up petitions- get the signatures of registered voters
Help the Freedom Party get on the Ballot
Brooklyn- Sistas Place- 456 Nostrand Ave.(corner of Jefferson Ave.)
Monday- Friday 11am to 8pm Saturday-11am- 3pm
Ask for Joy or Lamont- 347-636-3660
Bronx- Law office of Ramon J. Jimenez
145 E..149th Street (between Grand Concourse and Walton Ave.) 2nd Floor
718-993-3002 Monday- Friday 10am-7:30pm Saturday 12noon- 2pm
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. SummerState Music
Dr. Jimmy Cliff & Trevor Hall
3P
Rumsey Field, Central Park
72nd & 5th Ave
3. CELEBRATE BROOKLYN
OKAY AFRICA
Talib Kweli, The Roots
Prospect Park Bandshell
4P
9th Street & Prospect Park West
Brooklyn, NY
4. JAZZ @ “TWO STEPS DOWN”
Sunday, July 11, 2010
21260014a.jpg
With host and Jazz Vocalist,
Steve Cromity
6 PM to 7:00 PM
Special Guest:
JEFF KING, Saxophonist
7:30 P.M. - 8 PM
OPEN-MIC: 8 to 9
Musicians: Richard Clements, piano;
Eric Lemon, bass; Larry Johnson, drums
Location: 240 DeKalb Ave betw. Vanderbilt/ Clermount Ave's.
(718) 399-2020
Cover: $10.00 - $5.00 performing musicians
www.stevecromity.com, For bookings: (917) 685-3508 or acorns4u@aol.com
Next performance Dates: AUG 8
Last month Grady Tate performed and Bob Cunningham also showed up. Who knows
who will stop in. It's something good to do on a Sunday evening.
5. I just have to mention this: If you haven't done so already, go see THE KARATE KID, with Jaden Smith (Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith's handsome son). In fact take your kid, or somebody else's kid, it doesn't matter. It's a wonderful movie. I got as much value out of it as I did entertainment. It was uplifting, empowering, positive, and shows what happens when you follow your own inner strength, coupled with discipline, tenacity -- all the good stuff we say we want our kids to learn. Not one gun in the whole movie. Not one 4 letter word. There were some tensions initially, but the crux of the whole story is that the little brother hung in. And, yes, not only did Jaden inherit his parents good looks, he is a master actor. And so, by the way is Jackie Chan -- who knew he could be so dramatic? Taraji P. Henson is as usual wonderful in her role as the mother figure trying to make a new life in a different culture/world/environment. You are neither too old or too young to enjoy this. Action for the guys, tenderness for us ladies.
NOTE EVENT ALERT COMING UP:
Next Weekend, JULY 17-18 is the HARLEM BOOK FAIR 135TH STREET BETWEEN MALCOLM X AND FREDERICK DOUGLASS BOULEVARDS
(Lenox and 8th for the uninitiated)
That should keep you busy for a minute.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This week end is packed to back to back. So I didn't try
to list everything. Just a few things you may have overlooked
You know how we do in NYC, some from Column A, Some from Column B.
There's literally 5 activities every 30 seconds in NYC, so enjoy,
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
SATURDAY JULY 10, 2010
1. Congresswoman Yvette Clarke
& THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS FOUNDATION
Present
ECONOMIC POWER FORUM
Small Business Start Up Advice; Community Development and Housing
Initiatives, Fed Resources for Community Development
9A - 5P
St. Francis College
180 Remsen Street
Brooklyn, NY
Register online: www.cbcfinc.org or call 877-296-1758
2. Haitian Redevelopment Forum
10A-2P
Medgar Evers College
1650 Bedford Ave.
Saturday, July 10th Salon at the East Harlem Space!
Cool & comforting...Get your CREATIVE on!
Though I can't guarantee you an absolutely luscious, crisp, clear day on July 10th, I can guarantee a cool space inside, great new creations by textile artist Ella Murray and new Mwimbaji Earth Jewelry pieces, as well as hot, sultry sounds by vocalist Joyce Griffen and pianist Yoko Kawaguchi! Your taste buds and your spirit will be re-freshed in this warm-yet-cool environment -- we hope you'll stop by!
Peace,
Barbara
EAST HARLEM SALON SPACE:
1441A Fifth Avenue, ground floor
Between 117th/118th Streets (2nd house in from 117th) - terra-cotta brownstones wrap around the block
2, 3 or 6 to 116th Street
Walk to 5th Avenue
North on 5th, cross over 117th St., 2nd house on your right
646-244-0838
3. JoyStar (Joyce Griffen)
Come join us at July's Salon!
Saturday, July 10th
1:00PM to 6:00PM
East Harlem Salon Space
July's salon features textile artist Ella Murray (Ella Murray Designs) and Mwimbaji Earth Jewelry designer Barbara Sfraga (please scroll down for details about artists). Refreshments will be served, and musical performance is scheduled for 4-5PM. Come earlier for the hang, to check out our new designs and meet/visit with friends!
PERFORMANCE:
Lauded by jazz critic Stanley Crouch, Vocalist-Actress-Songwriter Joyce Griffen started out as an actress early on, acing her audition and joining the Prince Street Players, which led to a featured role in four CBS-TV children’s specials. Joyce performs with Pianist-Composer Yoko Kawaguch.
www.myspace.com/joycegriffen
Featuring the Wearable Art Creations of Ella Murray Designs: a combination of various weaves and patterns applied with textured yarns and an array of colors to create my COUTURE designs. Mixed media art, pins, men’s and women’s fashions. Ms. Murray is recognized by the Smithsonian as Textile Artist/Weaver (African American Archives). Stevie Wonder sports one of Ella Murray’s Kai Mask pins!
Barbara Sfraga's Mwimbaji Earth JewelryDeep root energy bursting through sidewalks, morphing into gnarled and knotty branches winding their way towards the sun...I collect gifts that have fallen from story-telling trees - some seasoned by the sea. http://www.barbarasfraga.com • http://openshoppe.net
646-244-0838 for more info.
4. Book Signing at Sister’s Place
Betty Dopson co-founder of CEMOTAP
“Shared Secrets of Sacred Sisters Who Prove
That Age is Just a Number”
3P-5P
456 Nostrand Ave (at Jefferson)
Brooklyn, NY 718-398-1766
5. Empowerment Hour Online University
EMPOWERING THE WORLD IN 2010 Saturday, July 10th
(6pm EST/5pm CST) program www.kermiteady.com
This week Charles Barron. Councilman Barron, candidate for Governor of the State of New York running against Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. The Councilman is also looking to gather 50,000 signatures to create the Freedom Party for the upcoming Gubernatorial election.
Andrew Cuomo does not have any African Americans on his ticket, and it's high time that we had a statewide African American candidate. Councilman Barron is the only politician in the State of NY that represents the African American Community. We need him now more than ever before.
Call In Number 646-716-7472
Callers are invited to call in and let their voices be heard.
Callers can also send e-mails prior to the program to info@kermiteady.com with the Subject Line
"Empowerment Hour Questions"
7. Party At Creole's 118th & Third Ave. East Harlem
10P - 3A
$15.00 pp
------------------------------------------------------------------
SUNDAY, JULY 11, 2010
1. Freedom Party News
Everyone Spread the Word
“Meet the Freedom Party Team”
Sunday July 11th,2010
4:30pm
Siloam Presbyterian Church
260 Jefferson Ave.(Corner of Marcy Ave.)
Brooklyn, NY 11216
Councilman Charles Barron- Candidate for Governor
Eva M. Doyle- Candidate for Lt. Governor
Roman J. Jimenez- Attorney General
Pick up petitions- get the signatures of registered voters
Help the Freedom Party get on the Ballot
Brooklyn- Sistas Place- 456 Nostrand Ave.(corner of Jefferson Ave.)
Monday- Friday 11am to 8pm Saturday-11am- 3pm
Ask for Joy or Lamont- 347-636-3660
Bronx- Law office of Ramon J. Jimenez
145 E..149th Street (between Grand Concourse and Walton Ave.) 2nd Floor
718-993-3002 Monday- Friday 10am-7:30pm Saturday 12noon- 2pm
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. SummerState Music
Dr. Jimmy Cliff & Trevor Hall
3P
Rumsey Field, Central Park
72nd & 5th Ave
3. CELEBRATE BROOKLYN
OKAY AFRICA
Talib Kweli, The Roots
Prospect Park Bandshell
4P
9th Street & Prospect Park West
Brooklyn, NY
4. JAZZ @ “TWO STEPS DOWN”
Sunday, July 11, 2010
21260014a.jpg
With host and Jazz Vocalist,
Steve Cromity
6 PM to 7:00 PM
Special Guest:
JEFF KING, Saxophonist
7:30 P.M. - 8 PM
OPEN-MIC: 8 to 9
Musicians: Richard Clements, piano;
Eric Lemon, bass; Larry Johnson, drums
Location: 240 DeKalb Ave betw. Vanderbilt/ Clermount Ave's.
(718) 399-2020
Cover: $10.00 - $5.00 performing musicians
www.stevecromity.com, For bookings: (917) 685-3508 or acorns4u@aol.com
Next performance Dates: AUG 8
Last month Grady Tate performed and Bob Cunningham also showed up. Who knows
who will stop in. It's something good to do on a Sunday evening.
5. I just have to mention this: If you haven't done so already, go see THE KARATE KID, with Jaden Smith (Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith's handsome son). In fact take your kid, or somebody else's kid, it doesn't matter. It's a wonderful movie. I got as much value out of it as I did entertainment. It was uplifting, empowering, positive, and shows what happens when you follow your own inner strength, coupled with discipline, tenacity -- all the good stuff we say we want our kids to learn. Not one gun in the whole movie. Not one 4 letter word. There were some tensions initially, but the crux of the whole story is that the little brother hung in. And, yes, not only did Jaden inherit his parents good looks, he is a master actor. And so, by the way is Jackie Chan -- who knew he could be so dramatic? Taraji P. Henson is as usual wonderful in her role as the mother figure trying to make a new life in a different culture/world/environment. You are neither too old or too young to enjoy this. Action for the guys, tenderness for us ladies.
NOTE EVENT ALERT COMING UP:
Next Weekend, JULY 17-18 is the HARLEM BOOK FAIR 135TH STREET BETWEEN MALCOLM X AND FREDERICK DOUGLASS BOULEVARDS
(Lenox and 8th for the uninitiated)
That should keep you busy for a minute.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
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