Just My 2 Cents

Is this the best the Bud Billiken can do?

2011-08-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Bud Billiken Parade has been around since 1929. It is always held on the second Saturday in August. It was created by Chicago Defender founder Robert S. Abbott. The parade has been the kick-off to encourage students to return to school and do their best.

The Bud Billiken has been able to attract many illustrious notables throughout the years. A lot of political hopefuls come out in a last ditch effort to get votes they may not get. It is also an opportunity for various schools throughout the city and surrounding suburbs to showcase their many talents by having their band, flag team and or dance team perform.

This year, the Grand Marshal was a Chicago native who has made headlines for more than just his music. If you didn't know it was R. Kelly. Some years ago there were allegations that R. Kelly was having sex with minors. He beat the charges that were brought up against him and I'm not holding that over his head. The issue I have is he's illiterate. How does one who has admitted that he is illiterate become the Grand Marshal of a parade that is supposed to encourage students to go back to school and do their best? I think that's the biggest oxymoron ever! I also believe it sends the wrong message to students in a system where a good number of them are functioning at least three grade levels behind.

I think it is sad that the Bud Billiken has gone from having the likes of then U.S. Senator Barack Obama being the Grand Marshal to R. Kelly. What a contrast! I guess this is the best they could do.

Time out for ma and pa businesses!

2011-01-14T13:29:00.000-08:00

I just saw a post on FB that a friend made. It was a PSA to hairstylist about increasing their prices because their business has decreased. It read : PSA for stylists: When you clientele starts decreasing, increase your marketing. Don't resort to raising your loyal client's prices to compensate your profit margin. That is all.

Now I understand the concern the poster and others have as it relates to maintain loyal clients; however, I often wonder why in certain industries people expect to be treated differently because of their loyalty. I know there are some companies who have customer loyalty programs but some of these programs cost and the rewards are not always as great as we would like them to be.

I digress. So I asked the person who posted this if this stylist has a said price list visible in the salon. Of course the answer was no. The prices are in the stylist head. HUH? So I suggested that maybe it is time for the client to find someone else to service her. Maybe she should go to a salon where there is a set price list.

So I guess my question is this: Why are there so many businesses (especially in the Black community) that are ma and pa businesses? I know this is how many of them got their start, but when do they progress and grow? Now, the original post was about increase your marketing, but how much marketing is being done if this woman does not have a set price list in place? I am inclined to believe that many small business owners are missing out on a lot of business because they do not have a solid business plan. Then there are others who will argue that there really is no need for one, but I believe that is nonsense. If you are going out of town and you have never been there, you need a map or GPS in order to get around. That is what a business plan does for a business. It gives you direction. I am not suggesting that you can not become successful without a business plan; however, having one will allow you to know when you have arrived at your destination.

Before you get in business, learn how to operate one.

2011-01-09T18:10:00.000-08:00

Just the other night, I was going through some old mail. As I was looking through the Valpak, I came across an advertisement for a nail spa. I had reason to suspect that this was not a reputable place, but I decided to look at the website for fun.

When I went to the website, I was a bit impressed. It appeared to be done with care. As I continued to look at the various sections I was really surprised. That was until I got to the picture gallery. When I went to the picture gallery, I noticed quite a few pictures that appeared to be taken from other publications. So, I go to this one nail company website and look at their pictures and walah! There were most if not all the images on this nail company website. I could not believe it. (Well, I could.) I guess the nail spa didn't expect a licensed nail technician to look at their website and identify the images.

The next concern I have is this another salon. I was on a website for a shoe store I like to frequent. I saw that this salon sponsored the shoe store ad so I decided to click on the salon website to see what it was all about. Well, it seemed nice but when I tried to click on the links, they were not working. That is not good. So in my ignorance, I kept on clicking various areas to see if I would be successful and I was not. When I finally was able to click on an area, the information appeared to be written in French.

Now, I am wondering: Why would you post a website that is not fully functional? Do you think people are going to remember to come back and check it in a few weeks or months? More than likely, NOT! I am beginning to wonder if people actually think before they decide to call themselves operating a business.

My dear friends, before you decide to operate a business, learn how to run one.

How do you become an expert overnight?

2011-01-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

I was speaking with a friend and she was sharing some things with me about her job. She has a new boss and all of a sudden, people who have never done anything at work or the bare minimum have become experts in the field and are jockeying for a position. After our conversation, I begin to question how does one truly become an expert in their respective fields overnight? Or are there just certain fields in which this happens?

I have always been an avid reader and I make sure I keep up with what is going on in my field(s) so I won't appear to be an idiot when engaging in a dialogue with others. I have some suggestions for those who are professing to be the expert in their field.

(1) If you have just entered this field, there is a GOOD possibility you are clueless to that field. I was speaking to another educator last night and we both laughed at some of the things we were taught in school and how it meant absolutely nothing when we started teaching. One of the reasons for this is the people who write the books are often so far removed from a situation or so out of touch with it they don't know what's really going on in reality.

(2) In most areas, your expertise comes from on the job experience. What people tend to learn in school is just a blueprint or guidelines for what may happen, but you really don't know until you experience it. If you know like I know, a lot of that stuff that is taught in school isn't worth what the bird left on the limb.

(3)Remain open and teachable. There are some people who feel like they have all the answers or all the knowledge and no one can tell them anything. WRONG! In order to become wise, you have to be open to learning. If someone is not open to doing so, then they are doomed for failure.

If you are an overnight expert, maybe you need to go back to the drawing board and re-evaluate your knowledge. There's nothing worse than a person who thinks he/she knows everything but in reality they know nothing at all. If you truly want to become an expert in your field, you first need to be open to learning on a continual basis. Once you have mastered that, you need to be willing to share this knowledge with others. It makes absolutely no sense to have the knowledge if you aren't going to share it. Also, I thought in order for one to become an expert in his/her field, others must recognize it.

Funerals truly bring out some special individuals.

2010-12-24T19:00:00.000-08:00

This year is ending on a somber note for me. On December 9, 2010, my dad had a seizure and a slight stroke while getting ready for dialysis. My sister and mom called 911 and off to the hospital he went. When he arrived at the hospital, they needed to send him to a hospital that had a neurosurgeon on staff. This hospital is probably ten minutes away from the first one.

When my dad arrived at the second hospital, it was determined that surgery was in order to stop the bleeding on his brain. That went well and my dad seemed to be recovering well. Shortly thereafter, it was determined that a second surgery was needed because it was difficult for my dad to receive dialysis. After that surgery, he was very tired, but he seemed to be recovering okay. My daughter would talk to him about what they would do when he came home from the hospital and how my mom was going to bake two cakes, one for her and one for him. hey were going to have birthdays. That's what they would say whenever my mom baked a cake.

I left the hospital that following Wednesday because there were only two more days of work/school left. I got home around 11p and decided that I would take a nap before I continued to finished my work. It couldn't have been more than an half hour after I arrived home that my sister called me to tell me my dad was not doing well and we needed to come back to the hospital. My daughter and I put our clothes back on and immediately went back to see my dad.

My dad's pressure kept dropping and it just wasn't looking good. He held on until Friday, December 17, 2010. My dad fought a good fight and I believe he was just tired.

This entire experience has shown me a lot about people, specifically those who are family. There have been so many of them didn't bother to come by my parents house after the burial to see how my mom was doing. Then a few of them had the nerve to say "We didn't know you all were having a repast at your house." Are you kidding me? You have got be bull shitting me. I mean do people only have to come over because they want some fried chicken and green beans. Really?!

Then, none of my aunts even bothered to speak to my mom at the funeral. Really?! Unbelievable. I mean, people are some strange individuals. I mean, none of them bothered to come to the hospital to see how my mom was doing. I had one cousin and his wife to come and check on us and sit with us during this time. Maybe it's because he too is the black sheep of the family.

My dad's sisters were doing some special type of stuff as well and I was so glad to see them go. I am not sure if they forgot that my dad died and this WAS NOT about them. They never really tried to communicate with my dad while he was living and I really wasn't sure why they came. Maybe their conscience was whooping them. Only God knows. My oldest aunt was having a difficult time understanding that this was not a social call and life does not revolve around her.

I was glad that my family from St. Louis came in because they were a pleasant surprise. I was really surprised to see them here.

I am glad that the hoopla is over. I am so over people telling us stupid stuff like "You know it's the holiday" or "I gotta get ready for the holiday." NEWSFLASH: We know it's the holiday and if I could bring my dad back and have a do over, I'd tell him to wait until it is more convenient for others before he dies. I mean, people have truly been strange and I know after this, I probably won't speak to a lot of people. However, my one friend Shalonda said it best "I still can't imagine what you all are going thru. But I do know this much for as long as I've known and interacted with you and your family, you ALL have always opened your hearts and home unselfishly to sooo many!!! You and your family serve as the "rock" too many. If there was anything anyone needed you guys are there jolly on the spot!!! It just hurts so bad because so many go to you all for consoling advice and assistance." I am so glad she posted this to my Facebook page because a lot of people don't realize it.

I have come to understand and realize this long before this day: I don't overestimate my importance in others lives and many of have proven it. I'm eagerly awaiting 2011 and all that is in store for me! I'll leave some people and their tomfoolery in 2010!

Don't believe the hype.

2010-11-28T11:47:00.000-08:00

In the 90's, Public Enemy made a song titled "Don't Believe the Hype." The lyrics of this song challenges a lot of the things the media presents as truth. This has been and probably will always be a concern especially when it comes to the Black community. So many Black people have come to believe what the media presents and they never think to challenge it.

One example of this is the "recession." I am so tired of hearing Black people scream there's a recession. Many of us have lived a recession our entire lives yet we did not know that is what is was called. We thought this was our way of living. We have succumbed to the media and its brainwashing that is so eloquently done that we don't know if we're coming or going. I am not discounting that people are facing lean economic times but there are a lot of people who are profiting during this recession. We need to get real about the truth. A lot of people are profiting from others misfortunes.

I believe it is time for Black people to wake up and smell the cocoa beans. Yes, there are a lot of people who are having a difficult time finding employment; however maybe it is time for use to create our own wealth. We have always been resourceful and the time is long overdue for us to start tapping into those resources. If we continue to wait on others to do it for us, we'll probably continue in this "recession" for years to come. It's time to wake up and get moving!

Please allow us to give thanks before we shove the snowmen down our throats!

2010-11-23T16:41:00.000-08:00

I have noticed this year the Christmas decorations in the stores have appeared earlier than usual. I know they always seem to appear right after Halloween, but it seems like as soon as midnight hit, the Christmas decorations were up! It's like the stores hit a button and they magically appeared.

There are so many people who are going to go further into debt during this holiday season. They will buy gifts for children who probably could give a care about the "stuff." I wonder why so many people put some much money into a few hours on one day. I always ask people who do this, what happens if the person they were buying all this stuff for suddenly died? What would they do? Would it even matter at that point?

I think a lot of people focus on the commercialism of the holiday season and they forget the true meaning or reason for this time of year. Maybe we should focus on what's really important and learn to celebrate those people we love on a daily basis. I am grateful to be alive and I know tomorrow is not promised to anyone. I make sure I tell those who are near and dear to me how I feel about them on a regular basis.

This holiday season, think carefully before you go spending money you don't have. I went to a furniture store the other day and the owner said something to me that made a lot of sense. He said " Why finance furniture? It makes no sense." I thought about that and he is correct. There are certain things we have to finance such as a home or a car, but why does furniture have to be one of them? Think about this as you go out shopping. Some items are not worth buying if you don't have the disposable income to pay for it that day.

Let us give thanks before we start crying out for the Almighty to save us from our debt.

Start planning for your future and stop living for the moment.

Stop talking about it and get up and be about it!

2010-08-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

In recent weeks, there have been many murders in the Chicago area. I have noticed that so many people on Facebook have posted how horrible these crimes are, yet I don't see anyone attempting to do anything about it. Michael Baisden has started a campaign to get one million mentors as a result of the brutal beating death of 16 year old Chicago student Derrion Albert. One of the things Michael Baisden has noticed is the lack of Black men stepping up to be mentors. There are a lot of white men and women stepping up to mentor these young misguided Black boys, but very few Black men.

My question is, where are the Black men? Maybe they are too busy getting it in and that's why they can't or won't mentor a child. We all know that many of the parents are not parenting their children so why do we continue to act surprised when we hear about the actions of the misguided children?

I am challenging all to get involved and mentor a child or two. You never know what type of impact you may have on their life.

I'm not surprised at all!

2010-07-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

The other Saturday, I went to a baby shower for one of my co-workers. Another co-worker and I rode together. Friday night, there was torrential rain and things of that nature. As a result, a lot of the roads were flooded that next day. The location of the shower was at least an hour on a good day but because of the roads, it took us a little longer.

When my co-worker(who is Black) and I arrived at the shower, a white co-worker said "Ok ladies, we're not on Dunbar time." Now Dunbar is the school where we work. I told her that we don't live out in the suburbs and we were coming from the city and had no control over the roads. If we lived in the suburbs, we would have been there on time.

I was trying to be cordial with this co-worker because I didn't want to upset the honoree. I really wanted to say some other things to her, but I was reminded by something my mom used to say all the time: If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

Now a new school year is approaching and I'm not so sure if I'm going to follow my mom's advice this school year. It is apparent to me that some people need to know that I'm on to them and their racist comments.

Is a high school diploma worth the ink used to print it?

2010-06-12T17:24:00.000-07:00

I teach high school English in what most people would call an inner city school. I sometimes liken it to "Lean on Me." It may not be as bad as Eastside, but the potential to get there is right around the corner. However, this post is about the number of high school students who actually earn a diploma.

In the United States, according to www.higheredinfo.org, the average graduation rate is 68.6%. Now some people may think that is a fairly decent number and they may be correct; however, what is happening to the other 31.4%? America needs to wake up and realize we are doing a disservice to ourselves if we don't try to fix this public education system. There are so many children (especially in minority communities) who are being pushed through the system it's ridiculous. Many educators often feel like they are forced to pass students who come to class but don't do any work. What type of example is this setting?

I know in the past, the school where I teach used to allow students to walk across the stage even if they weren't eligible to graduate. It seems like the expectations for children has been lowered so low that doing something "for show" is the only thing that matters. What happened to working hard and earning a good grade? Many people can't just show up to work 100% of the time, do 50-0% of the work and receive a full paycheck, so why do we allow our students (who are supposed to be our future leaders) to do this? It makes absolutely no sense.

America is failing our future and we don't even care, or is it because the ones who are failing don't resemble the majority it is okay? I'm asking someone to who may be more astute than I to tell me if a high school diploma is worth the ink used to print it?

Prom Time is Upon Us

2010-05-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

The other day I was listening to the radio and the disc jockey was talking about prom. There are a number of website devoted to the "ghetto" couples attending prom and I guess there was a link on the DJ's web page. So callers were calling in and giving their point of view on these outfits. Now, I have quite a few issues with this and other websites devoted to make a mockery out of unsuspecting children. Yes, a good number of them are just children.

First, I am not sure if anyone is familiar with a DVD titled "Ethnic Notions." Well, this DVD gives the history of how so many negative stereotypes regarding Black people came about and how the media continues to perpetuate them. When I hear about these websites or receive these emails with "ghetto" prom pictures, I cringe. In my humble and maybe limited opinion, I feel like it further perpetuates the negative stereotypes that the media has projected about Black people. It also is a reminder that coonery and buffoonery still exist.

Secondly, let me provide you with a definition of "ghetto". According to the Eleventh Edition of the Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, a ghetto is defined as the following: (1) a quarter of a city in which Jews were formerly required to live (2) a quarter of a city in which members of a minority group live esp. because of social, legal, or economic pressure (3a) an isolated group (3b)a situation that resembles a ghetto esp. in conferring inferior status or limiting opportunity.

Now I guess what I'm having a difficult time understanding is, how does these outfits that may seem a bit unconventional resemble a ghetto? I have seen some of the outfits and although I don't agree with many of them, I would never call them "ghetto". I believe the kids today are creating their own style and that is fine. Just because many people may not see their outfits as being classy or elegant, does not mean the kids wearing them agree.

As a community, I believe we need to work with these children and mentor them to show them a better way. Instead of people taking photos of them and posting them on various websites to make a mockery of them, we need to show them a different way. This doesn't mean that one way is better or worse than the other, it just gives them an opportunity to have that exposure that they have not had.

Finally, I think these websites gives "other" people the ammunition to continue to make a mockery of Black children. There are others who enjoy maybe even thrive off of Black people who make fun of one another and display them in a negative light. That makes their job easier. I want to appeal to those adults who pass these e-mails around and go to the various websites that portray these "ghetto" prom images; this year when you get them, respond to the person who sent it to you and ask him or her what they could have done to prevent these type of images? If they don't have an answer, then maybe you can advise that person to stop making a mockery out of these children lives and maybe instead of spending time passing the pictures around, mentor a child.

Addendum to some things may never change

2010-04-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I posted my thoughts about some comments that I found to be quite offensive. Well, the other night when I was at beauty school, the receptionist made a comment that offended a lot of my classmates. She made a comment about a classmate taking longer because she was blow drying ethnic hair. Everyone in the room had these looks of horror on their face. As a result, the general manager called a meeting with everyone. When the comment was brought up, the receptionist got emotional claiming the statement wasn't meant to be racist and she apologized to us. Now, many of us didn't believe her because she has made other comments that were questionable. She made insulting comments about Black men and Arabian people in front of myself and a classmate that is Arabian. Oh, I forgot to mention that those comments were made on a day in which she scored 100% on her ethnic and diversity training test. So what does that mean? Not a thing because she doesn't know who to put that theory into practice. Other classmates has heard her say things that they questioned as well.

I think sometimes people don't realize that it's not what you say it's the manner in which it is spoken. In the situation at school, everyone knew the girl was styling her mom's hair and we saw both of them so was the comment really necessary? I don't believe it was. She could have just told us that the girl was still working on her client. Plus, earlier that evening, a situation with the student (the one whom was still working with her mom) and the receptionist and it was handled very inappropriately and unprofessionally.

I am not going to stop posting about the racism that still exist because it is a reality for me. I don't care if people get mad and stop talking to me. I've come to understand that those who get upset have a lot of growing to do.

Parents need to be parents

2010-04-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

The other day, I had a situation with one of my students who got into some trouble. It was a pressing matter in most eyes, however the parent didn't seem to think so. When the parent was notified, the replay was "I'm at work." Now, how can a parent be so cold and unconcerned when it comes to his or her child.

I am always baffled by parents who are too wrapped up in their own lives and they neglect their children. These kids didn't ask to come into this world and they shouldn't be punished for being here. I think it's amazing how almost every profession requires the individual to go through a variety of test to ensure they are qualified for the job. Wouldn't it be nice if parenting had those same stipulations?

Parenting is a full-time job and with very few breaks. It would be nice if people would think about what a parent is and all that it entails before bringing a child into this world. I encounter so many children who are crying out for the love and affection from their parents and the parents are not listening.

Where is the integrity?

2010-03-10T10:46:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine posted this article on Facebook and I found it to be quite entertaining.

I am not sure what the logistics behind the grade changes, but I do know that this is not uncommon. Many educators often fuss about the pressure that is put upon them to change grades and if they are not changed, the teacher may be reprimanded.

It is a sad day in the field of education when teachers are unable to teach students and assess them fairly. I often wonder what many business owners and managers would do if their employees would come to work 100% of the time, do 50-0% of the work and collect 100% of their paycheck. This is what happens in many public schools in the inner city.

Then there are so many people who are not educators who feel like they can tell the educators how to do their job. Oftentimes these individuals don't have a clue as to what will work.

I hope there was an actual glitch in the system as this school, but if there wasn't, it may get ugly.

Some things may never change.

2010-02-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

Last year a few co-workers and I went out to lunch. While we were eating, one of my co-workers mentioned that another co-worker drives a BMW. When no one said anything, she said it again.

A few weeks ago, there was a professional development day and many of the teachers were out of the building for other meetings. When it was time to go to lunch a co-worker (different from the first one) mentioned that the same lady drove a BMW and then proceeded to say another on had a Cadillac SUV. Then one said, "Yea, but where do they live?"

There are many issues I have with these "observations". First, it's no one's business how someone spends their earnings. No one talks about them for spending $300 on a pair of shoes or jeans. I think what really got me was the sound of angst in their voices.

Today in our meeting, a co-worker was announcing his birthday which is next Wednesday. I announced that he'd bring the treat (similar to what is done in elementary school). He and I were having this little banter about it and one of my co-workers said that he should bring the treats because he's the only department member who drives a Mercedes. He replied to her that she could drive one as well but she has opted not to do so. I was SO happy he said something to her. Maybe this will shut her up and her friends.

This really disturbs me because it is just another reminder that some things have not and may never change. There are still white people who claim to be very liberal minded yet they are afraid when Blacks have things nicer than them. All of these co-workers drive foreign cars and pay exorbitant amounts for clothes that sometimes look like they got them from a flea market. And they have the audacity to question how others spend their money. Unbelievable!

Elementary schools need to be departmentalized.

2010-02-21T17:33:00.000-08:00

I teach high school English. One of my biggest struggles is when students leave elementary school, they are often lacking some of the basic skills needed to do well in English class. One of these skills is the ability to write a good thesis statement. I've noticed that most elementary school teachers encourage the students to restate the writing prompt they have been given. The issue I have with this is that is a form of plagiarism. In many colleges around the country, students are expelled for plagiarism.

I've often voiced my concern for elementary schools being departmentalized(meaning one teacher teaches a specific subject area) as a result of teachers who are not strong in one subject area but they have to teach that subject. As a result of this, many students are often left struggling with that subject because the teacher is not proficient in teaching the content. I believe if elementary schools were departmentalized like high schools, the students would have a better understanding of each subject.

There are some school districts that have middle schools and/or junior high schools that are departmentalized but a good number of them are not. I believe this change could be beneficial to the overall performance of a school district.

It saddens me that America is supposed to be such a great country but when it comes to public education, we are failing. If the politicians and other powers that be would stop trying to focus on standardized testing, some teachers could actually teach their students basic skills to prepare them for high school and beyond.

Rules work better when you are consistent.

2010-02-10T09:57:00.000-08:00

The other day at work, one of the deans made an announcement over the intercom about the attire for the students. I am wondering who felt the need to make this announcement in February and school has been in session since September.

I sometimes think the higher ups actually believe that changing the rules in the middle of the game isn't such a bad idea. WRONG! The message that this sends to the students is we're disorganized as a school. Maybe they don't realize that children like and need structure. As adults, we need to show our children how to become responsible members of society and changing the rules as you are playing the game is not the way to go.

I also believe children need real life consequences. I've been in the same school for a few years with the same principal and various assistant principals. Some of the rules that were put into place a few years ago now seem to be extinct. It seems like anything goes now and the students who were here for the rule changes are taking advantage of this lack of consistency. Some of the students who have been here for a few years have noticed this and they take advantage of this.

It is really unfortunate that the adults are unable to remain consistent when it comes down to rules and consequences. Part of the education process is to teach students how to become productive members of society and when we don't give them the proper guidance, they fail. What ever happened to parental responsibility? I guess that baby was thrown out with the bath water.

Black History Month

2010-02-02T10:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the first day of Black History Month. I read a friend's status on Facebook encouraging people to celebrate the month. Another friend posted something about educating the children about it. The guy who made the original post then commented about that being the educators job. Of course I had to chime in.

I am always amazed by the people who believe everything should fall upon the teacher. What most people fail to realize is the parent is the first and most important teacher. There are too many parents who look to the teacher for everything. I think we are probably the only race of people who have dropped the ball as it relates to educating our young. We are no longer taking an active role in our child's lives.

I asked this person what happens when the teacher does not teach about Black history? What do you do? Or the teachers who think reading a poem by a Black person is sufficient? How do our children learn about their history and heritage when this occurs? It is my hope and prayer that we get it together as a race of people before it's too late!

When will the hood richness stop?

2010-01-01T23:22:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all!

I saw something that got me to thinking, when will the hood richness end? I know many people of color come from meager backgrounds and once they are able to get something, the often do it in excess. It happens with many Black athletes, rappers and actors. Once they get enough pocket change, they go out and purchase a fleet of cars, jewelry and other items to let people in the hood know they've made it. What most Black people don't realize is many people who possess wealth don't go around showing it. Their money is invested wisely so they can continue to grow it.

It is very unfortunate that most Black people spend the majority of their income on clothes, cars or entertainment, whereas others spend it on retirement or some other form of investment. When will we wake up and realize we will never have economic wealth if we continue to become hood rich. There are many Black people who could open a business and be very successful but they won't because they can't stay out of the stores.

In order for us to get ahead as a race, we need to regain our economic power. We need to stop giving back 98% of our income and keeping the 2% for ourselves. We also need to know and understand that every time we go to the store and spend excessive amounts of money, there are people who are very grateful for us and they are laughing their way to the bank as they are counting their money.

I believe many of my peers need to focus on building their financial portfolio so when it's time to retire, they won't be looking for Uncle Sam to send them a check. I also think we are doing a disservice to our children and future generations. We are teaching them to be financially irresponsible just like us. Let's vow to stop making frivolous purchases and invest more. We also need to use our talents that God has given us to create wealth. The next time you're getting ready to purchase a "want", think about this: If I purchase this item, how am I creating economic wealth for me or my community? If this item is a not a need and it does not create economic wealth, maybe you need to rethink the purchase.

My prayer for 2010 and many more to come is that God will bless me and my finances. I hope He'll do the same for you!

Closing out the year.

2009-12-31T13:59:00.000-08:00

This year is almost over. I've blogged about a number of issues relevant to me and my community. In Chicago, there was a number of violent deaths on teens by teens. It is a sad day when people have become immune to this type of violence. I've asked before and I'm going to ask again, "Where is the village?" What is/has happened to the Black community? How can so many of us give up on future generations without even trying? It is not the sole responsibility of the teachers. What many of us know is many parents are children themselves and they don't know how to parent. We have to make a better effort in reclaiming out community. No one can or will do it for us. We need to stop looking for these celebrities and other prominent African Americans to save our children. I know many of us can come together for a number of "pyramid or ponzi schemes" but when it comes reclaiming our neighborhoods, we've turned a deaf ear and blind eye.

In 2010, make a vow to make a difference in a child's life. Stop being so self-centered and self-absorbed and help reclaim the Black community. I remember a time when the village was alive and kicking. Let's bring that back! We can't afford not to do it.

What is your legacy?

2009-12-14T10:54:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening, I was watching Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. The woman selected to receive a makeover is probably one of the most inspirational people I've heard of in a long time. Ms. Clara is a pillar in her community. She makes sure the people in her community have things most people take for granted.

As I was watching, I got to thinking about the legacy this lady is leaving for her family and community. It also made me wonder, what type of legacy will be left when I am no longer here? I don't believe a lot of people think about this. Too many of us young people aren't doing anything to leave a legacy. We don't have a cause that is near and dear to us. We are not giving back to our communities on a regular basis. (Cleaning out our closet once or twice a year is good, but what else do you do?) I think a lot of us are tired and we have no reason to be tired. We didn't march for equality. We are riding on the coat tails of others who did.

My challenge to you as well as myself is to begin working on your legacy today. Don't wait until the new year, start today. If your desire is to work with teen mothers, start doing so today. You can go to your local school, church or park district to find teen mothers. Men, start mentoring these young boys. A lot of these young boys are in need of a man to teach them how to become a man. Stop waiting on others to do for our community. There is only one Oprah and she can't and shouldn't have to do it all. I implore you to get involved and start taking back our children and communities. It is amazing that there are so many civic/community based organizations that many Black people participate in on a regular basis and the Black community is falling apart. Maybe they are doing things in the community and I am not aware of it.

I want to let everyone know that I donate blood on a regular basis. I also participate in the Glass Slipper Project (which donates prom dresses, shoes and accessories to high school girls who can't afford to purchase them) every year. I also donate clothes to various women's shelter's on a regular basis. I work with youth who need assistance in writing personal statements for college. I am also the Child Volunteer Protection Advocate for my daughter's soccer league, in addition to working full-time and going to school part-time. To those of you who think you don't have time to give back, you need to make time.

SMH

2009-11-30T09:47:00.000-08:00

Over the past few weeks, the students have been a out of control. There have been multiple fights and it is just nuts. It seems like a lot of the students only come to school to fight. They are not going to class in a timely fashion and no one seems to care.

What is really going on here? How can we prepare these students for the future if they are not in class? I guess it really doesn't matter because the teacher is responsible for the student not matter what. The parents and child don't have any accountability.

A few months ago, I posted about teachers not teaching or attempting to teach. I now understand how so many get to that point. If you are trying to improve and do well, it seems like you are shunned for that. Mediocrity is acceptable.

Is this what education has come to?

Where is the village?

2009-10-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

There is an African proverb that states "It takes a village to raise a child." I believe that wholeheartedly, however I am wondering where is the village?

In recent weeks in the Chicagoland area, there have been a lot of news reports of children killing one another. Some of these kids are beaten, stabbed or shot. I am not sure what has so many children full of hate. I know part of the reason is children are having children. There are many people who don't like to admit this, but this is the case. It is a shame that many people in the Black community no longer find shame when a girl is a teenager, pregnant and unmarried. Those people over 30 will remember a time when the pregnant girl would be sent down South and when she returned she was no longer pregnant and there was no baby in sight. That was when most of the community found this to be a travesty. Today, it seems as if it is the opposite. I have students who don't see anything wrong with having a baby at a young age. I don't really understand what happened in the Black community to cause this shift.

I digress. The issue here is about the violence taking place in the inner city. What can be done to reduce the number of children being killed? I have a few ideas and some of them may seem extreme or radical, but they may actually work.

1. The black community needs to take it back! There was a time when the Black community had everything we needed in our backyard. Today, that is not the case. We have allowed other ethnicities to come into our communities and set up shop and offer us inferior products and services. I've purposed in my mind a few years ago to try and support as many Black businesses as possible. If they are not meeting my expectations, I offer them feedback and give them a chance to correct it. If they still are unable to produce, I let them know I am not going to return to their establishment and the reason(s) why. It is up to them if they listen. I know there are some people who say they don't have time for that, but if you don't let people know what's wrong, they may believe they are doing right. If there were more Black owned business in the Black community, maybe some fo the kids would have positive role models who look like them and they wouldn't have to engage in illegal activities to earn money.

2. Blacks need to stop trying to run from each other. When so many Blacks "make it", they abandon their old neighborhoods for more affluent ones. A good number of these areas don't want Blacks in them anyway. I know people have a choice to live wherever they want. I agree that you should live where you will be happy. My point is, a lot of successful Blacks never come back to their old communities to give back to the community. When they do, they do it once a year. Kids need to see positive role models on a regular basis, not on a yearly basis.

3. Stop expecting others to do for you what you are not willing to do for yourself. This is a major issue for the Black community. So many Blacks look for celebrities to do what they aren't willing to do for themselves. When Oprah opened her school in Africa, so many people were upset that she didn't do something in the United States. She said when she asked the kids in the United States what did they want, so many of them named electronic devices. When she went to Africa, the kids wanted to get a good education. What a lot of people fail to realize is businesses are less likely to set up in communities in distress when the residents don't take interest in them.

4. Eliminate or reduce government assistance for people who continue to have children and have never worked. I know this may seem a bit extreme, but why should tax dollars be spent taking care of children whose parents refuse to work? It is not fair to those who work and want to have children and can't afford to do so. If government assistance was reduced for each additional child a person had, I bet a lot of people wouldn't keep having them. Or what if it was contingent upon a child's attendance and performance in school? I wonder how many kids would really strive to do well. My point here is, there has to be some type of concrete plan in place to deter this type of behavior. it is a sad day when some of my students don't see anything wrong with turning 18 and getting on welfare. A good number of them are looking forward to doing so. If I don't have anything to aspire to, I'll continue to do what my parents and family has done.

Children learn from example. if they don't have any positive examples to show them differently, they will do what they know. Now I understand that you can't reach all the kids, but you can make an effort to reach one. We know that there are some parents who will never get it together, but if we work with the children of these parents, there may be hope.

It doesn't make sense.

2009-10-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

I was speaking with a fellow educator the other day and we were talking about educators who have somehow lost their passion (maybe never had it) for teaching. One of the things we were discussing is how so many teachers have become very mediocre in their 'profession' (if you want to call it that). I don't understand why people continue to do a half-assed job. Why don't they go elsewhere and do that? Oh wait, if you do that in many corporate jobs, you'd be fired before you were hired good.

It saddens me when I see or hear about educators that don't teach (or at least pretend to teach). The kids talk about them and often times they don't realize how that educator is saying they are stupid or dumb by not attempting to teach them. Most of the kids don't care, they just want to get a good grade and pass the class. What many of them fail to realize is the proof is in the pudding. How can you be number one in your class, in honors or AP classes, and when you take the ACT test, you score just the same as all the other students.

I don't get it. It doesn't make any sense. Either the teachers aren't really teaching these kids on that level, or the kids aren't applying themselves. I don't know. My friend and I were discussing this because she just got an AP class on her schedule because the former teacher wasn't really teaching the kids at an AP level. The former teacher got mad that this change took place.

What is really going on in America that people who are trusted to educate no longer seem to care. It seems like the focus is on passing kids and getting them to graduate. It doesn't really matter if they learn anything. I am always baffled how a country that is supposed to be so great, is lagging as it relates to education. Maybe if more money was spent to improve education and educate parents, there wouldn't be a need for so many prisons. Oops, then so many companies would lose a lot of money. That's another issue, another blog entry.

If America really wants to see improvement, we need to wake up. There are so many other countries surpassing us by and we don't seem to mind.

Back to the Basics

2009-09-18T09:38:00.000-07:00

School has officially been in session for a full week. It is still a bit chaotic, but what else is new? I have debated if I would chime in on this subject or not. Well, on September 8, 2009, Mr. President was giving a speech to encourage students to do well in school so they may be able to accomplish their future goals. As of today, I have not heard all of it, but what I have heard seemed to be good, sound advice. I cannot fathom why any parent would be upset by this, oops, I know it's because the parents really don't want their children to become successful.

I think that it is horrible that some parents dislike or hate the President so much that they refused to allow their children to go to school. What type of message does that send to the child? I also think it is a sad day when school districts have to find entertainers or other people in the limelight who may not be the best voice to promote education. I am wondering what has happened in our society that we have to find a cheering squad to get students motivated to go back to school?

I don't understand it and I probably never will. I think it is time for so many of us to stop riding the coat tails of those who came before us and start getting involved. During the Civil Rights Movement, people were fighting with the hopes of invoking a change. Today, it seems like we are okay with the way things are and if we aren't, we won't say it too loud for fear of someone holding us accountable.

It is my prayer that America can get it together. How can we proclaim to be this great nation and we can't or won't take care of our own people and the issues plaguing them? When will America stop rolling out the welcome mat and running to the aid of others and help America?

A few things I believe all men should know when it comes to dating

2009-08-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

In a previous post, I mentioned my inability to find a reliable date for some upcoming functions. I know some people may wonder what's the big deal, but sometimes a lady requires an escort. I am happy to announce, that this has been resolved. This entire situation got me to thinking about some of the things I believe all men need to know when it comes to dating women.

1. When you are interested in a woman, if you don't have yourself together please do everyone a favor and don't even attempt to pursue the woman. Many women don't/won't wait for you to get it together, especially if you are over a certain age.

2. Don't wait too late. There is a saying that goes something like "Study long, study wrong". A lot of guys are like a little kid in the candy store when it comes to dating. Some men act like kids in the candy store when it comes to dating. They get so excited with all the different selections, they don't know how to narrow it down to just one.

3. Start showing a little maturity. I can't speak for all women, but I know quite a few who can't stand immature males. Know when enough is enough.

4. Second chances don't come around too often. If a woman allows you to come back into her life, don't do the fool and repeat the same mistake(s) twice. What men also need to realize is, most women have a window in which she will allow a man to come back and after that window, he can hang it up!

5. Be a man! I think this is the most important tidbit to know. Women don't want to have to try and rear an adult male into a man. If you have reached a certain age and you don't know what a man is supposed to do or how he's supposed to act, you need to get a book or ask a man. Women shouldn't have to tell a man to hold the door for her, send her flowers just because, or any other thing like that.

Wanted: A good man.

2009-08-10T21:19:00.001-07:00

I am single and for the most part I am okay with this; however, there are times when I get frustrated and discouraged. One of those times is when I am invited to parties, weddings or other events where the majority of the people are married or in long-term relationships. Most of the time, there is no one there for me to converse with and let the record reflect that I don't want your man (most of the time the women think I do).

I've been invited to a few events that require an escort and I don't have one to accompany me. It seems like when you ask some Black men to go with you to an event, they assume you want to be in a relationship with them. They never think you may enjoy their company and want to hang out with them. I am not really sure what the deal is, but I know I am tired of it.

I have a P.S.A. to all the people who have these events and don't think about their single friends when doing so: It isn't that we are looking for you to hook us up with anyone, we just want someone to have a decent conversation with while at your event. Is that too much to ask?

No two people are the same.

2009-07-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks, I've been speaking with a few friends and some of them have expressed concern with some of the people in their life who is trying to make them be a carbon copy of someone else. I've noticed that sometimes, people are upset when you do something that is different from what they feel like you should be doing.

When God created us, He made us all to be unique individuals. I've been thinking about this for quite some time and what I believe is this, these 'friends' really have some personal issues within and they are trying to take it out on others. I think if everyone would focus on their personal life, things would be a whole lot better.

Allow your friends to be the individual God created him/her to be!

Until later...

Freedom begins with the mind!

2009-07-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

If you know the history of slavery in America, you will know that once slavery was abolished, many slaves refused to go because they were afraid. They were physically free, but mentally they were still enslaved. Many of these people were afraid of leaving because they had been brainwashed into thinking slavery was the best option for them.

There are many people today who are still living in slavery. Freedom begins in your mind and with your thought process. I believe it was Henry Ford that once said, "If you think you can, you can. If you think you can't, you can't." I believe this quote stems from Proverbs 23:7a "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he."

Most people don't realize that our thoughts is what hold us in bondage. Once we are able to free our mind, the rest will follow. If you speak certain things, eventually they will come to pass. To those who believe they will never get married, have a child, have a business, get out of debt, or be able to afford the finer things in life, you won't. Today, the pastor said something that was simple yet profound. He said, start hanging around the type of people you want to be like. If you want to be a millionaire, start hanging with like minded individuals. You also need to start acting like one. This does not mean you go out and purchase things you can't afford, but you can no longer function like you're living paycheck to paycheck.

One of the reasons many athletes and other celebrities have a difficult time matriculating into an upper class/wealthy environment is because of their mind. Think about it, many of these individuals grew up in an impoverished environment and all of a sudden they have more money than most people will amass in a lifetime. Most of them are not ready mentally and they continue to behave in the manner they have been functioning their entire lives. Some of them get it, but a lot of them don't. This is why many of them get kicked out of 5-star hotels, and four-star restaurants. Just because they can afford to fly first class, doesn't always mean they have first class mentality. These people are mentally enslaved.

Freeing the mind is not an easy task. The individual has to want to be free. If that person remains around people who are mentally enslaved, oftentimes they don't believe anything is wrong with their thoughts. Think about this the next time you say you can't do something.

My rants, raves and other thoughts!

2009-07-24T12:33:00.000-07:00

This blog is all of my rants, raves and other random thoughts. If you are offended by something here, that is not the intent. It is my hope that you will be informed and aware of some of the issues I face and deal with on a regular basis.

Until later...