Red aka The Rising Sun was born and spent his early childhood living all over parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Red was a die hard hip hop fanatic listening to everyone from 2 Pac Shakur, Wu Tang Clan, Pete Rock, and Kanye West. Those influences soon played a part in helping him develop the craft of writing rap music, making beats, and becoming an "Unsung Legend" in his own right. He met another local MC named Initial, and this led them to create demos, mixtapes, and albums releases:" WhenThe Mirror Breaks", titled under Dark Reflektion and" In The Building" under B.T.W. "Blood Thicker Then Water". They won local talent shows and were one of the first rap acts to perform at MUSIKFEST, which is one of the biggest music events in the United States! He is currently an artist, producer, and CEO of the company Redlight Productions.
The company is comprised of brothers Army Gunz and Tsunami, cousins
J. Sweetz, Loco P., Bones, new artist P. Vera, and long time friend, Initial.
In 2007, they released "Hood Ties" and then later, his solo album "Unsung Legend", to great raves and reviews. He earned 5 Lehigh Valley nominations in 2008, emerged victorious in a double elimination beat battle, released another group album "Redlight Chronicles" and released 2 mixtapes "Welcome 2 Redlight City Vol. 1" and "So Far So Close." which earned him 10 Lehigh Valley nominations.
True to form, Redlight Productions, recently, won the 2009 Lehigh Valley Music Award for "BEST HIP HOP ARTIST" and "CD OF THE YEAR"!
Red has established himself as a force to be reckoned with, and isn't afraid to take risks and show why Allentown, PA is indeed, "Redlight City."
The 1st track is "Addicted" the 2nd track is "So Far So Close"
for more info check out www.thisisred.net and www.myspace.com/redrumredlight
Also Redlight TV www.youtube.com/redlighthiphop !!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO HOME, BUT YOU HAVE TO GET THE HECK OUT OF HERE!!!
"The owner of an Easton night club was charged early today with hindering and obstructing a police investigation into a stabbing last month.
Police say Kirtikuma Patel, 46, owner of Club Beyond, instructed employees to clean up blood and other evidence after a customer was stabbed in the neck in the club's bathroom on Oct. 31. Patel was arrested at the club shortly after midnight and later arraigned.
A bar patron and an employee were arrested that night and also face obstruction of justice charges.
Easton Mayor Sal Panto said he, the Northampton County district attorney's office and city code inspectors met about ten days ago to discuss a strategy to address what Panto calls a "problem" night club.
"It's the only downtown night club giving us problems, and if it continues, we are shutting it down," said Panto, noting that the owner can expect increased inspections over the next several months.
Police, the district attorney's office, state Liquor Control Board officials and city inspectors converged on the night club last night -- it was hosting a highly publicized event -- to make the arrests and conduct inspections.
"We knew there would be a lot of people there and we wanted to show them that this is not a safe place to be," said Panto. "We wanted to take him out in front of everybody."
Panto said he was not sure whether city inspectors issued any fines.
Patel was not immediately available for comment.
Another man was arrested last night, police said.
Joe Taylor, 33, works as a bouncer at the club and on Oct. 18 police say he slammed a woman's face to the floor and dragged her out of the club.
Police charged him with simple assault and harassment."
- THE MORNING CALL, 2009
It looks like this club is going the same route the Down Low did in Allentown, PA. I was there on the night that it was, unexpectedly, closed down. I am unsure what the answer is, but I don't know where Easton and the surrounding towns expect the Urban adults to go who enjoy the hip hop/R&B vibe. We don't have anything against DRINKY'S, MOTHER'S, Maingate, No Name and other nightspots in the surrounding area, but it's NOT the same. I understand that the club owner has to pay for his past transgressions, but why wait until people have PAID their hard earned money for an event and close it down just to make an example out of him? Who suffered the most? If the place is said to be unsafe, why not close it down EARLIER in the week BEFORE it opens, people are placed in harms way, and money is exchanged?
There were three things that were, definitely, accomplished last night: the notoriety of the club was established which will BRING more people to it in the future, a city leader has shown he is more interested in harassing and shutting down a viable business instead of working, guiding, and cooperating with it to find the root of the problem and eliminate it; and once again, the URBAN COMMUNITY was shown there is little regard for "their" type of crowd in the area.
Alfonso Todd
www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com
Police say Kirtikuma Patel, 46, owner of Club Beyond, instructed employees to clean up blood and other evidence after a customer was stabbed in the neck in the club's bathroom on Oct. 31. Patel was arrested at the club shortly after midnight and later arraigned.
A bar patron and an employee were arrested that night and also face obstruction of justice charges.
Easton Mayor Sal Panto said he, the Northampton County district attorney's office and city code inspectors met about ten days ago to discuss a strategy to address what Panto calls a "problem" night club.
"It's the only downtown night club giving us problems, and if it continues, we are shutting it down," said Panto, noting that the owner can expect increased inspections over the next several months.
Police, the district attorney's office, state Liquor Control Board officials and city inspectors converged on the night club last night -- it was hosting a highly publicized event -- to make the arrests and conduct inspections.
"We knew there would be a lot of people there and we wanted to show them that this is not a safe place to be," said Panto. "We wanted to take him out in front of everybody."
Panto said he was not sure whether city inspectors issued any fines.
Patel was not immediately available for comment.
Another man was arrested last night, police said.
Joe Taylor, 33, works as a bouncer at the club and on Oct. 18 police say he slammed a woman's face to the floor and dragged her out of the club.
Police charged him with simple assault and harassment."
- THE MORNING CALL, 2009
It looks like this club is going the same route the Down Low did in Allentown, PA. I was there on the night that it was, unexpectedly, closed down. I am unsure what the answer is, but I don't know where Easton and the surrounding towns expect the Urban adults to go who enjoy the hip hop/R&B vibe. We don't have anything against DRINKY'S, MOTHER'S, Maingate, No Name and other nightspots in the surrounding area, but it's NOT the same. I understand that the club owner has to pay for his past transgressions, but why wait until people have PAID their hard earned money for an event and close it down just to make an example out of him? Who suffered the most? If the place is said to be unsafe, why not close it down EARLIER in the week BEFORE it opens, people are placed in harms way, and money is exchanged?
There were three things that were, definitely, accomplished last night: the notoriety of the club was established which will BRING more people to it in the future, a city leader has shown he is more interested in harassing and shutting down a viable business instead of working, guiding, and cooperating with it to find the root of the problem and eliminate it; and once again, the URBAN COMMUNITY was shown there is little regard for "their" type of crowd in the area.
Alfonso Todd
www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com
Monday, October 5, 2009
CONGRATULATIONS FOR BEING NOMINATED FOR THE BEST GOSPEL ARTIST AND THE TONYA BROWN AWARD: BEST FEMALE VOCALIST IN THE LEHIGH VALLEY MUSIC AWARDS,
PAULA BRION!!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO RED FOR BEING NOMINATED FOR BEST SINGER/SONGWRITER, BEST ALL AROUND PERFORMER, BEST NEW ARTIST/BAND, LIVE HIP HOP/URBAN PERFORMANCE, BEST LYRICIST, BEST MUSIC PRODUCER
REDLIGHT WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST SOLO OR BAND WEBSITE
"Addicted" WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST ORIGINAL SONG
"So Far, So Close" was nominated for voted for LVMA BEST OVERALL CD
EXCLUSIVE RECORDING STUDIO was nominated for BEST RECORDING STUDIO
ALFONSO TODD was nominated for BEST COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
REMEMBER TO GO VOTE FOR THEM AT www.lehighvalleymusicawards.org
PAULA BRION!!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO RED FOR BEING NOMINATED FOR BEST SINGER/SONGWRITER, BEST ALL AROUND PERFORMER, BEST NEW ARTIST/BAND, LIVE HIP HOP/URBAN PERFORMANCE, BEST LYRICIST, BEST MUSIC PRODUCER
REDLIGHT WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST SOLO OR BAND WEBSITE
"Addicted" WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST ORIGINAL SONG
"So Far, So Close" was nominated for voted for LVMA BEST OVERALL CD
EXCLUSIVE RECORDING STUDIO was nominated for BEST RECORDING STUDIO
ALFONSO TODD was nominated for BEST COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
REMEMBER TO GO VOTE FOR THEM AT www.lehighvalleymusicawards.org
Thursday, October 1, 2009
THE FALLZTIVAL IS COMING !!!!!
On October 24, 2009, the business, HOTSPOT COMPUTERS, INC will be hosting a community recycling/informational event. Here is more information about the location:
Will Roman, the owner of HOTSPOT COMPUTERS, INC, has worked tirelessly through the years to create his "one stop shop" for your computer needs. His latest location at 719 W. Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA is exceeding all expectations and is poised to be one of the most successful stores in Center City. It has been open since May 2009 and the public has taken notice.
Mr. Roman's goal is to teach people in the community basic knowlege about computers, their uses, and how they can be serviced. He has started this process by collaborating with LCCC, a community college, and offering volunteer opportunities for the students.
Computer repair, servicing, sales, and an internet cafe are just some of the offerings of HOTSPOT COMPUTERS, INC, but there is more to come in the near future. STAY TUNED........
This is a FREE venue for vendors, community organizations, and businesses of the Lehigh Valley area. Contact Alfonso Todd/484 274 5852 / alfonsotodd36@msn.com or Ben Nicholson/484 274 5823 / bestimpression4u@yahoo.com for more information.
BLURB Media/Promotions
Will Roman, the owner of HOTSPOT COMPUTERS, INC, has worked tirelessly through the years to create his "one stop shop" for your computer needs. His latest location at 719 W. Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA is exceeding all expectations and is poised to be one of the most successful stores in Center City. It has been open since May 2009 and the public has taken notice.
Mr. Roman's goal is to teach people in the community basic knowlege about computers, their uses, and how they can be serviced. He has started this process by collaborating with LCCC, a community college, and offering volunteer opportunities for the students.
Computer repair, servicing, sales, and an internet cafe are just some of the offerings of HOTSPOT COMPUTERS, INC, but there is more to come in the near future. STAY TUNED........
This is a FREE venue for vendors, community organizations, and businesses of the Lehigh Valley area. Contact Alfonso Todd/484 274 5852 / alfonsotodd36@msn.com or Ben Nicholson/484 274 5823 / bestimpression4u@yahoo.com for more information.
BLURB Media/Promotions
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
2009 URBAN MUSIK CONFERENCE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY ALERT!
THE 2009 URBAN MUSIK CONFERENCE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY or The UMCLV is almost here!
Here's a small preview of what is to come:
REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT, who will be performing the hits from their recently released underground CD sensation, "So Far, So Close" www.myspace.com/redrumredlight .
Ms. Paula Brion, well known 1990's recording artist, who landed several record deals with such labels as Tommy Boy, Mercury, 4th and B'way, and FFRR. She charted #1 on England's Dance Charts, and has vocal coached the best in the business such as Jennifer Lopez and Brenda K. Starr. She also has performed and recorded with artists like Blue Magic, Ray-Goodman and Brown, Queen Latifah, Full Force and Cheryll "Pepsi" Riley.
This will be a huge opportunity for artists and groups to perform for the representatives, as well as, network and create relationships that may bring them closer to their ultimate goal.
REGGAETON/HIP-HOP/R & B/NEO-SOUL/ and other genres of music and artistic talent are welcome to experience the 2009 URBAN MUSIK CONFERENCE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY !
VOLUNTEERS WANTED !
FOR MORE INFORMATION: http://www.wix.com/umclv2009/umclv2009
www.umclv.piczo.com
www.umclv.blogspot.com
BLURB Media/Promotions
484 274 5852
484 274 5823
Here's a small preview of what is to come:
REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT, who will be performing the hits from their recently released underground CD sensation, "So Far, So Close" www.myspace.com/redrumredlight .
Ms. Paula Brion, well known 1990's recording artist, who landed several record deals with such labels as Tommy Boy, Mercury, 4th and B'way, and FFRR. She charted #1 on England's Dance Charts, and has vocal coached the best in the business such as Jennifer Lopez and Brenda K. Starr. She also has performed and recorded with artists like Blue Magic, Ray-Goodman and Brown, Queen Latifah, Full Force and Cheryll "Pepsi" Riley.
This will be a huge opportunity for artists and groups to perform for the representatives, as well as, network and create relationships that may bring them closer to their ultimate goal.
REGGAETON/HIP-HOP/R & B/NEO-SOUL/ and other genres of music and artistic talent are welcome to experience the 2009 URBAN MUSIK CONFERENCE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY !
VOLUNTEERS WANTED !
FOR MORE INFORMATION: http://www.wix.com/umclv2009/umclv2009
www.umclv.piczo.com
www.umclv.blogspot.com
BLURB Media/Promotions
484 274 5852
484 274 5823
Saturday, September 19, 2009
ART 101 - FIRST LESSON - Go and see.....
A MESSAGE FROM: Yodi Duane Vaden, Artist
Everyone,
I just want to bring this to your attention. Gregory Coates has opened his art studio up to make his art work available here in the Mid Atalantic Region (specifically the Lehigh Valley). I am passing on the details so you do not miss your opportunity to purchase and see his art locally. Have a great day.
Peace hope to see you on Sunday, Sept 20.
Yodi
MOSTLY DRAWINGS
Presented by Gregory Coates and Kiki Nienaber
at 614 Washington Street Allentown, PA
Between 6th and 7th Street
Open house Sunday, September 20th, 3-5 p.m
Open studio for the opportunist collector and those that want
to begin to start an Art collection.
Prices are recession adjusted.
Internet Viewing optional
Month long Viewing
and visits by Appointment
call 484 350 3124
Everyone,
I just want to bring this to your attention. Gregory Coates has opened his art studio up to make his art work available here in the Mid Atalantic Region (specifically the Lehigh Valley). I am passing on the details so you do not miss your opportunity to purchase and see his art locally. Have a great day.
Peace hope to see you on Sunday, Sept 20.
Yodi
MOSTLY DRAWINGS
Presented by Gregory Coates and Kiki Nienaber
at 614 Washington Street Allentown, PA
Between 6th and 7th Street
Open house Sunday, September 20th, 3-5 p.m
Open studio for the opportunist collector and those that want
to begin to start an Art collection.
Prices are recession adjusted.
Internet Viewing optional
Month long Viewing
and visits by Appointment
call 484 350 3124
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
THANKS TO EVERYONE !!!
We appreciate everyone who came out to the PROLIFICK E-MAGAZINE RELEASE EVENT !!!! The vibe was "on point", the food was great, and the atmosphere couldn't have been better. I want to give a "shout out" to Gregory and Kiki who donated their time, effort, and art work to the event. (And if anyone else wants to come and see these magnificent paintings and sculpture, call me: 484 274 5852)
I, also, SPECIFICALLY, want to thank RED of REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT for his computer designing skills, (I couldn't have done it without him),
and Rose for providing the wine and food. (You are appreciated!)
Thanks again, for all of the support!
Alfonso Todd
www.prolifickmag.com
I, also, SPECIFICALLY, want to thank RED of REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT for his computer designing skills, (I couldn't have done it without him),
and Rose for providing the wine and food. (You are appreciated!)
Thanks again, for all of the support!
Alfonso Todd
www.prolifickmag.com
Saturday, September 12, 2009
PROLIFICK E-MAGAZINE RELEASE EVENT AND MORE !!!!
PROLIFICK
www.prolifickmag.com
A new entity is rising up from the depths of mediocrity and is challenging those who would dare to become lackluster and tedious. We are here to challenge those that believe the URBAN COMMUNITY can be defined by one type of music, one type of look, one type of thought, and one type of future. We ARE multi-faceted, creative, ambitious, and unable to be stopped ! WE ARE PROLIFICK !
PROLIFICK is a new e-magazine that is electronically distributed for maximum exposure with minimum cost to our Readers and Clientele.
It is a monthly item that will be released on the 15th of each month with the PREMIERE issue scheduled for September 2009.
It is a constantly evolving entertainment platform that will include: national issues, celebrity reports, in-depth interviews, music and art reviews, plus, health/beauty advice with just a touch of nostalgia, for those who hunger for the days of yester-year.
PROLIFICK RELEASE EVENT
SEPTEMBER 15, 2009
1101 HAMILTON STREET, 3rd FLOOR
ALLENTOWN, PA
TIME: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Featuring works from the art collection of Kiki Nienaber.
She, also, will be producing a segment for PROLIFICK entitled,
“Art 101”, which will provide thought-provoking insights into the
complexities of art and the art world.
AND AN EXCLUSIVE PERFORMANCE FROM REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT!
If you would like to advertise with PROLIFICK and/or be placed on their mailing list, contact alfonsotodd36@msn.com
484 274 5852
PROLIFICK E-MAGAZINE IS BEING PRODUCED AND DISTRIBUTED BY
REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT and BLURB Media/Promotions
PROLIFICK ADVERTISING PRICES:
Business card sized ad - 10.00
1/4 page - 15.00
1/2 page - 20.00
FULL page - 30.00
(prices are per month with a 3 month minimum)
"LOW COST, BUT EFFECTIVE"
www.prolifickmag.com
A new entity is rising up from the depths of mediocrity and is challenging those who would dare to become lackluster and tedious. We are here to challenge those that believe the URBAN COMMUNITY can be defined by one type of music, one type of look, one type of thought, and one type of future. We ARE multi-faceted, creative, ambitious, and unable to be stopped ! WE ARE PROLIFICK !
PROLIFICK is a new e-magazine that is electronically distributed for maximum exposure with minimum cost to our Readers and Clientele.
It is a monthly item that will be released on the 15th of each month with the PREMIERE issue scheduled for September 2009.
It is a constantly evolving entertainment platform that will include: national issues, celebrity reports, in-depth interviews, music and art reviews, plus, health/beauty advice with just a touch of nostalgia, for those who hunger for the days of yester-year.
PROLIFICK RELEASE EVENT
SEPTEMBER 15, 2009
1101 HAMILTON STREET, 3rd FLOOR
ALLENTOWN, PA
TIME: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Featuring works from the art collection of Kiki Nienaber.
She, also, will be producing a segment for PROLIFICK entitled,
“Art 101”, which will provide thought-provoking insights into the
complexities of art and the art world.
AND AN EXCLUSIVE PERFORMANCE FROM REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT!
If you would like to advertise with PROLIFICK and/or be placed on their mailing list, contact alfonsotodd36@msn.com
484 274 5852
PROLIFICK E-MAGAZINE IS BEING PRODUCED AND DISTRIBUTED BY
REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT and BLURB Media/Promotions
PROLIFICK ADVERTISING PRICES:
Business card sized ad - 10.00
1/4 page - 15.00
1/2 page - 20.00
FULL page - 30.00
(prices are per month with a 3 month minimum)
"LOW COST, BUT EFFECTIVE"
Monday, September 7, 2009
POSITIVE CHANGE, DESPITE NEGATIVE COMMENTS....
Hello ALL,
It is going to be hectic this Winter as Alfonso, Ben, Christine, and I get ready to attempt to "MAKE THINGS HAPPEN" in Allentown, PA, the LEHIGH VALLEY, and beyond.....
We, at BLURB Media/Promotions have several events that are coming up that will be entertaining as well as educational for the young ladies and women in the A.B.E. area, as well as those interested in the entertainment industry.
THE "QUEEN FOR A DAY" EVENT/NOVEMBER 21, 2009 - FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO www.lifestylesofthegss.piczo.com
THE 2009 URBAN MUSIK CONFERENCE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY/NOVEMBER 7, 2009 - FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO www.umclv.piczo.com (The official UMCLV blog is coming soon to keep YOU updated on any changes)
Another project that BLURB Media/Promotions is producing in collaboration with REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT, is PROLIFICK, www.prolifickmag.com. This new entity will be focusing on the often overlooked and stereo-typed Urban community that exists in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. It will feature articles that pertain to fashion, culture, entertainment and MORE! The blog is up and running now, but don't get it confused with the e-magazine that will be released on SEPTEMBER 15, 2009.
And there is ALOT more to come!
BLURB Media/Promotions is on the move and we are taking YOU all with us! We are determined to cultivate new ideas and positive changes that will not only enhance ourselves, but the Lehigh Valley, as well.....
KEEPING IT MOVING,
J. BLACK
It is going to be hectic this Winter as Alfonso, Ben, Christine, and I get ready to attempt to "MAKE THINGS HAPPEN" in Allentown, PA, the LEHIGH VALLEY, and beyond.....
We, at BLURB Media/Promotions have several events that are coming up that will be entertaining as well as educational for the young ladies and women in the A.B.E. area, as well as those interested in the entertainment industry.
THE "QUEEN FOR A DAY" EVENT/NOVEMBER 21, 2009 - FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO www.lifestylesofthegss.piczo.com
THE 2009 URBAN MUSIK CONFERENCE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY/NOVEMBER 7, 2009 - FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO www.umclv.piczo.com (The official UMCLV blog is coming soon to keep YOU updated on any changes)
Another project that BLURB Media/Promotions is producing in collaboration with REDLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT, is PROLIFICK, www.prolifickmag.com. This new entity will be focusing on the often overlooked and stereo-typed Urban community that exists in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. It will feature articles that pertain to fashion, culture, entertainment and MORE! The blog is up and running now, but don't get it confused with the e-magazine that will be released on SEPTEMBER 15, 2009.
And there is ALOT more to come!
BLURB Media/Promotions is on the move and we are taking YOU all with us! We are determined to cultivate new ideas and positive changes that will not only enhance ourselves, but the Lehigh Valley, as well.....
KEEPING IT MOVING,
J. BLACK
Saturday, August 29, 2009
PLEASE KEEP MY NAME OUT OF YOUR MOUTH......
Bill Villa said...
(forgot one)
Shameless publicity whore Alfonso Todd.
Sat Aug 29, 10:55:00 AM 2009
- THE "LEHIGH VALLEY SOMEBODY" BLOG
I have always been told that "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all" or "the older one gets, the more maturity one will develop", unfortunately, this is neither true nor correct when it comes to this guy named Bill Villa.
Now, for those of my READERS, who don't know, Bill is a very sad and unstable individual who had the misfortune of losing a loved one. Since then, he has used every opportunity to "blast" anyone who disagrees with his thoughts, ideas, and advice.
He calls it "EXPOSURE", but in reality, it's what we in the 'hood call BITCHASSNESS.
"BITCHASSNESS" - Overall stank actions towards others through words, facial expressions, and/or song. Symptoms include: thinking your better than those around you, not speaking your true feelings, throwing large amounts of shade.
Now, to be fair, this is ONLY done through his WIFE'S blog, LEHIGH VALLEY SOMEBODY, www.bloggingdottie.blogspot.com because in the REAL world, NO ONE takes him seriously. Their blog supposedly champions the injustices of the poor, women, and minorities but they spit out about as much hate as the KKK. This blog is full of loathing, gossip, and pettiness. They are like spoiled kids who can't get their way so they whine until SOMEBODY pays attention. Go figure....
My dear Readers, PLEASE go to their blog and add points to their highly coveted award of being the #1 MOST INFLUENTIAL POLITICAL BLOG IN PENNSYLVANIA. (That and
50 cents STILL won't buy you a cup of coffee because NO ONE REALLY CARES...)
Again, to be fair, they have some rather interesting accusations and historical facts that does make one think, but are they reporting it due to public interest/concern or mere animosity towards these people ?
Now, I can only speak for myself because I KNOW I haven't done any harm to them but for some reason they felt the need to come at me like a ferocious pit bull.
What a quote they wrote! (And I have to say THEY because he can only write what his WIFE allows on HER blog)
Well, in truth, I am a promoter, event coordinator, marketing specialist, and have a little popularity in the area, so if they have bestowed me with the new title,
"PUBLICITY WHORE", I will wear it like a badge of honor because it seems Bill Villa singled me out purposely; like he did at the last CHEN ARTS SHOW on 6/7/09 at the ALLENTOWN MUSEUM where he ran me down on my way out and asked me to say negative things about his "so-called" enemies in my e-newsletter, Lehigh Valley Flavor, www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com, because, apparently, his wife's blog doesn't have enough credibility, and I guess because "misery loves company." He, also, asked me to boycott the City's newspaper, the Morning Call, because of the racist comments that often appear on their blogosphere. (I often battle this by going on line and going head to head with the ANONYMOUS bloggers themselves; GOOGLE: Alfonso Todd and see some of my fearless exploits) I told him no and and I guess that may be where the HATERISM started.
"HATERISM" - Displaying hate for the next individuals success as a result of ones own short comings; A wall post on the internet or something said aloud which makes the victim look bad in front of a large group of people
You see, I thought by staying neutral when everyone told me how "crazy" the Villas tend to be, freely promoting/marketing their events, and even attending/supporting their functions, I was doing "right" by them, but in reality they must have mistaken my kindness for weakness.
My words of advice for this "happy" couple is THIS:
STOP BELIEVING YOUR OWN HYPE
Instead of wondering what others are doing, getting upset when people have opinions that differ from yours, and planning various devious methods of blog character assassination, you should be practicing what you preach and TRULY be out in the community and MAKING THINGS HAPPEN. (And sorry, The CHEN ARTS GROUP is a COLLECTIVE effort that, due to to your need for attention, seems to have lost as many supporters as it has gained)
READ AND LEARN FROM THE QUOTES OF THE PEOPLE YOU CLAIM TO BELIEVE IN
"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Dissents speak to a future age."
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg
If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.
- John F. Kennedy
Get the point ?
AND LASTLY,
Since you cannot seem to control yourself when it comes to "blog-attacking" individuals who have nothing to do with your petty squabbles, beliefs, and opinions, you REALLY need to seek out a therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or the like.
As for me, I have determined that it would be in my best interest not to go to your blogsite anymore because anything that you could write or rant about is worth LESS than NOTHING in my eyes, you are not worth the time or effort for any future correspondence, and I will not take part in ANY of your future plans or projects;
because I KNOW while you are TALKING about future art shows and fundraisers, I will be DOING events like regional conferences and uplifting workshops for young ladies and women in our community.
And here's one to grow on,
ALWAYS REMEMBER: Words can hit just as hard as a fist, and I truly am too busy to deal with a school yard bully, who in essence, just needs a hug.....
- Alfonso Todd
www.gsands.jimdo.com
(forgot one)
Shameless publicity whore Alfonso Todd.
Sat Aug 29, 10:55:00 AM 2009
- THE "LEHIGH VALLEY SOMEBODY" BLOG
I have always been told that "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all" or "the older one gets, the more maturity one will develop", unfortunately, this is neither true nor correct when it comes to this guy named Bill Villa.
Now, for those of my READERS, who don't know, Bill is a very sad and unstable individual who had the misfortune of losing a loved one. Since then, he has used every opportunity to "blast" anyone who disagrees with his thoughts, ideas, and advice.
He calls it "EXPOSURE", but in reality, it's what we in the 'hood call BITCHASSNESS.
"BITCHASSNESS" - Overall stank actions towards others through words, facial expressions, and/or song. Symptoms include: thinking your better than those around you, not speaking your true feelings, throwing large amounts of shade.
Now, to be fair, this is ONLY done through his WIFE'S blog, LEHIGH VALLEY SOMEBODY, www.bloggingdottie.blogspot.com because in the REAL world, NO ONE takes him seriously. Their blog supposedly champions the injustices of the poor, women, and minorities but they spit out about as much hate as the KKK. This blog is full of loathing, gossip, and pettiness. They are like spoiled kids who can't get their way so they whine until SOMEBODY pays attention. Go figure....
My dear Readers, PLEASE go to their blog and add points to their highly coveted award of being the #1 MOST INFLUENTIAL POLITICAL BLOG IN PENNSYLVANIA. (That and
50 cents STILL won't buy you a cup of coffee because NO ONE REALLY CARES...)
Again, to be fair, they have some rather interesting accusations and historical facts that does make one think, but are they reporting it due to public interest/concern or mere animosity towards these people ?
Now, I can only speak for myself because I KNOW I haven't done any harm to them but for some reason they felt the need to come at me like a ferocious pit bull.
What a quote they wrote! (And I have to say THEY because he can only write what his WIFE allows on HER blog)
Well, in truth, I am a promoter, event coordinator, marketing specialist, and have a little popularity in the area, so if they have bestowed me with the new title,
"PUBLICITY WHORE", I will wear it like a badge of honor because it seems Bill Villa singled me out purposely; like he did at the last CHEN ARTS SHOW on 6/7/09 at the ALLENTOWN MUSEUM where he ran me down on my way out and asked me to say negative things about his "so-called" enemies in my e-newsletter, Lehigh Valley Flavor, www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com, because, apparently, his wife's blog doesn't have enough credibility, and I guess because "misery loves company." He, also, asked me to boycott the City's newspaper, the Morning Call, because of the racist comments that often appear on their blogosphere. (I often battle this by going on line and going head to head with the ANONYMOUS bloggers themselves; GOOGLE: Alfonso Todd and see some of my fearless exploits) I told him no and and I guess that may be where the HATERISM started.
"HATERISM" - Displaying hate for the next individuals success as a result of ones own short comings; A wall post on the internet or something said aloud which makes the victim look bad in front of a large group of people
You see, I thought by staying neutral when everyone told me how "crazy" the Villas tend to be, freely promoting/marketing their events, and even attending/supporting their functions, I was doing "right" by them, but in reality they must have mistaken my kindness for weakness.
My words of advice for this "happy" couple is THIS:
STOP BELIEVING YOUR OWN HYPE
Instead of wondering what others are doing, getting upset when people have opinions that differ from yours, and planning various devious methods of blog character assassination, you should be practicing what you preach and TRULY be out in the community and MAKING THINGS HAPPEN. (And sorry, The CHEN ARTS GROUP is a COLLECTIVE effort that, due to to your need for attention, seems to have lost as many supporters as it has gained)
READ AND LEARN FROM THE QUOTES OF THE PEOPLE YOU CLAIM TO BELIEVE IN
"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Dissents speak to a future age."
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg
If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.
- John F. Kennedy
Get the point ?
AND LASTLY,
Since you cannot seem to control yourself when it comes to "blog-attacking" individuals who have nothing to do with your petty squabbles, beliefs, and opinions, you REALLY need to seek out a therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or the like.
As for me, I have determined that it would be in my best interest not to go to your blogsite anymore because anything that you could write or rant about is worth LESS than NOTHING in my eyes, you are not worth the time or effort for any future correspondence, and I will not take part in ANY of your future plans or projects;
because I KNOW while you are TALKING about future art shows and fundraisers, I will be DOING events like regional conferences and uplifting workshops for young ladies and women in our community.
And here's one to grow on,
ALWAYS REMEMBER: Words can hit just as hard as a fist, and I truly am too busy to deal with a school yard bully, who in essence, just needs a hug.....
- Alfonso Todd
www.gsands.jimdo.com
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
AND WE THOUGHT HE ONLY DID EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS.....
The following is an article written by Ms. Carmen Teresa Deangelo of OAPA, (Old Allentown Preservation Association). My boy, Alfonso, was asked to create a program for the youth of A-town that was positive, informative, and interactive, thus "HIP HOP INTERACTIVE" was developed.......
"Another huge Thank You to ANDA (Allentown Neighborhood Development Alliance)’s Neighborhood Partnership Program, funded by KNBT and PPL, for another day of Summer Arts in the City. On Wednesday, August 5, 2009, through ANDA arts programming, Old Allentown Preservation Association treated 27 local teenagers to a day of arts in the city, the second such session. The teens enjoyed a two hour visit to the Allentown Art Museum, featuring the exhibit, Fashion in Film. After viewing and learning a bit about the many portraits downstairs, the teens explored the thirty two costumes on display upstairs. The period costumes captured their imaginations, all the while absorbing valuable historical information, and connecting the past with today. The teens had a chance to put their creativity to use by learning how to insert dyed wool into felt in the museum’s Crayola Learning Center. This project became the cover of a journal they put together for themselves to take with them back home. But it wasn’t time to go just yet! Just outside the museum, across the street at the Arts Park, the teenagers had a delicious lunch of gourmet deli wraps from Plaza Deli waiting for them. And, after eating, Alfonso Todd (BLURB Media/Promotions), presented “Hip Hop Interactive.” Alfonso and the teens had fun taking turns dancing and learning new steps from each other while discussing their surroundings and how the ‘hip hop’ lifestyle affects themselves, their family and friends, and schools. There were many smiles to be seen."
- Carmen Teresa Deangelo
"This world demands the qualities of youth: not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper of the will, a quality of imagination, a predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the love of ease."
- Robert Kennedy
Keeping it as REAL as possible,
-J. BLACK
www.umclv.piczo.com
"Another huge Thank You to ANDA (Allentown Neighborhood Development Alliance)’s Neighborhood Partnership Program, funded by KNBT and PPL, for another day of Summer Arts in the City. On Wednesday, August 5, 2009, through ANDA arts programming, Old Allentown Preservation Association treated 27 local teenagers to a day of arts in the city, the second such session. The teens enjoyed a two hour visit to the Allentown Art Museum, featuring the exhibit, Fashion in Film. After viewing and learning a bit about the many portraits downstairs, the teens explored the thirty two costumes on display upstairs. The period costumes captured their imaginations, all the while absorbing valuable historical information, and connecting the past with today. The teens had a chance to put their creativity to use by learning how to insert dyed wool into felt in the museum’s Crayola Learning Center. This project became the cover of a journal they put together for themselves to take with them back home. But it wasn’t time to go just yet! Just outside the museum, across the street at the Arts Park, the teenagers had a delicious lunch of gourmet deli wraps from Plaza Deli waiting for them. And, after eating, Alfonso Todd (BLURB Media/Promotions), presented “Hip Hop Interactive.” Alfonso and the teens had fun taking turns dancing and learning new steps from each other while discussing their surroundings and how the ‘hip hop’ lifestyle affects themselves, their family and friends, and schools. There were many smiles to be seen."
- Carmen Teresa Deangelo
"This world demands the qualities of youth: not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper of the will, a quality of imagination, a predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the love of ease."
- Robert Kennedy
Keeping it as REAL as possible,
-J. BLACK
www.umclv.piczo.com
Friday, August 7, 2009
FUNDRAISING FIASCO
"Jammin' on the Plaza, the free concert series held at PPL Plaza in Allentown, has been canceled for the remainder of the summer over a lack of funds, an organizer said Thursday.
Kevin Fleming, co-chairman of the Valley Vision 2015 Community Team, said the concert series, which featured local, regional and national acts from 4-7 p.m. Thursdays, had to be cut short because fundraising was unsuccessful."
- The Morning Call, 2009
There are plenty of talented bands and groups that would perform for free at the Plaza and there are vendors/sponsors that would assist in paying the City fees to do events such as this. Unfortunately, since the mindset of many people is kinda backwards when it comes to funding, events, such as this one, are cancelled due to lack of money/interest.
Self-sufficiency is the answer to do these NEEDED events in Allentown. Stop depending on the City, possible funding and grants, big name corporate sponsors, etc and just do as we did with UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II that attracted over 500 people between 6th and 7th Streets on Hamilton Street, 3 weeks ago, and had over 20 artists/groups that came from as far away as NYC and Lancaster, PA and represented a multiple array of music and talent: classical string, merengue, rap, bachata, R & B, salsa, middle eastern belly dance, gospel, and more! We are the most Official "Unofficial" Annual Event in A-town and we still had a crowd WITHOUT commercials, press conferences, etc. Go to www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com for highlight pictures.
You CAN have events FOR the community that are supported BY the community. You may not get $10,000.00 from BUTZ CONSTRUCTION but $50.00 from the neighborhood corner store that has been in operation for 5 years and $100.00 from the hardware store that has operated for 8 years and countless other small businesses that are the TRUE life blood of A-town do ADD-UP! And believe me, THEY WANT POSITIVE EVENTS LIKE THIS. It may take longer and and need a little more work, but it can be done, ask Alfonso Todd, Ben Nicholson, and Christina Smith of BLURB Media/Promotion.
One last thing, please remember this is an URBAN area. Rock and alternative bands are nice (I happen to like The Ataris, Bjork, and Silverchair) , but the demographic in Center City A-town doesn't match this musical genre. Also, please stop trying to cater to PPL employees. It's been proven time and time again that they may stop and come out and eat lunch on the Plaza but for afternoon and weekend functions, it's a high risk or a no-go.
Yes, A-town has been anti-urban "anything" for years but if Alfonso can continue to do events that cater to the URBAN masses that DO spend money and dwell in Center City "without any incidents" i.e. fights, arrests, etc and they are family-oriented as well as entertaining, and educational, why can't other WELL FUNDED entities/businesses do the same to enhance the City ?
I'm just sayin',
J.BLACK
www.5minutes2shine.blogspot.com
www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com
Kevin Fleming, co-chairman of the Valley Vision 2015 Community Team, said the concert series, which featured local, regional and national acts from 4-7 p.m. Thursdays, had to be cut short because fundraising was unsuccessful."
- The Morning Call, 2009
There are plenty of talented bands and groups that would perform for free at the Plaza and there are vendors/sponsors that would assist in paying the City fees to do events such as this. Unfortunately, since the mindset of many people is kinda backwards when it comes to funding, events, such as this one, are cancelled due to lack of money/interest.
Self-sufficiency is the answer to do these NEEDED events in Allentown. Stop depending on the City, possible funding and grants, big name corporate sponsors, etc and just do as we did with UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II that attracted over 500 people between 6th and 7th Streets on Hamilton Street, 3 weeks ago, and had over 20 artists/groups that came from as far away as NYC and Lancaster, PA and represented a multiple array of music and talent: classical string, merengue, rap, bachata, R & B, salsa, middle eastern belly dance, gospel, and more! We are the most Official "Unofficial" Annual Event in A-town and we still had a crowd WITHOUT commercials, press conferences, etc. Go to www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com for highlight pictures.
You CAN have events FOR the community that are supported BY the community. You may not get $10,000.00 from BUTZ CONSTRUCTION but $50.00 from the neighborhood corner store that has been in operation for 5 years and $100.00 from the hardware store that has operated for 8 years and countless other small businesses that are the TRUE life blood of A-town do ADD-UP! And believe me, THEY WANT POSITIVE EVENTS LIKE THIS. It may take longer and and need a little more work, but it can be done, ask Alfonso Todd, Ben Nicholson, and Christina Smith of BLURB Media/Promotion.
One last thing, please remember this is an URBAN area. Rock and alternative bands are nice (I happen to like The Ataris, Bjork, and Silverchair) , but the demographic in Center City A-town doesn't match this musical genre. Also, please stop trying to cater to PPL employees. It's been proven time and time again that they may stop and come out and eat lunch on the Plaza but for afternoon and weekend functions, it's a high risk or a no-go.
Yes, A-town has been anti-urban "anything" for years but if Alfonso can continue to do events that cater to the URBAN masses that DO spend money and dwell in Center City "without any incidents" i.e. fights, arrests, etc and they are family-oriented as well as entertaining, and educational, why can't other WELL FUNDED entities/businesses do the same to enhance the City ?
I'm just sayin',
J.BLACK
www.5minutes2shine.blogspot.com
www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
RACISM OR NOT RACISM ? THAT IS THE QUESTION...
Relax, people! I am not about to jump on the bandwagon and write about the Obama/ Gates issue. Why? Because as a Black man, I don't have to look at the news and see how people's judgements and preconceived notions tend to taint their everyday decisions in life. The only true concern I have is what will people take away from this incident ?
The reason I ask this is because I am very concerned about how the issue of race is popping up all over the media and yet people are still saying that since Obama was elected, we are closer to a "color-blind" society. If only that were true....
I believe since Obama was elected, it has given alot of people a platform to say some of the vilest comments publicly without any threat of condemnation, because the thought process is "How can they be racist since we have a Black president now ? That person is just using their God-given right and voicing their opinion."
So now, Black Pride is under attack, Latin Pride is under attack, ANY pride unless it is American Pride, is under attack and if you aren't careful, you CAN and WILL be called un-American for your thoughts or ideals. Ask Judge Sotomayer.
J. BLACK
"FREE TO BE ME"
The reason I ask this is because I am very concerned about how the issue of race is popping up all over the media and yet people are still saying that since Obama was elected, we are closer to a "color-blind" society. If only that were true....
I believe since Obama was elected, it has given alot of people a platform to say some of the vilest comments publicly without any threat of condemnation, because the thought process is "How can they be racist since we have a Black president now ? That person is just using their God-given right and voicing their opinion."
So now, Black Pride is under attack, Latin Pride is under attack, ANY pride unless it is American Pride, is under attack and if you aren't careful, you CAN and WILL be called un-American for your thoughts or ideals. Ask Judge Sotomayer.
J. BLACK
"FREE TO BE ME"
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
THE AFTERMATH OF UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II
"Progress lies not in enhancing what is, but in advancing toward what will be.'
- Kahlil Gibran
It's been two weeks since the event UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II. There have been alot of accolades, thank-you's, congratulatons, offered opportunities, and one or two complaints. I guess when it is all said and done, BLURB Media/Promotions has created one of the most OFFICIAL "UNOFFICIAL" annual events in A-town!
I mean, to be honest, I don't see how they did it. Ben, Christina, and Alfonso actually made it happen that day! Live music, food, children's events, and more lined up on Hamilton between 6th and 7th Street. It was a spectacle to behold as different nationalities came together with their families to enjoy the multi-cultural celebration in Downtown Allentown! All I can say is, see you all next year!
A key point that REALLY needs to be made, though, is that Center City and the surrounding neighborhoods need MORE events like this. There are families in various income brackets that inhabit this city and they deserve a quality event just as much as the next town!
There was dancing in the streets, laughing between neighbors, and the rumor is that over 500 people came through that day! So, if a beginning company can bring together small and large businesses/organizations, local and regional quality entertainment, and have a family event with not one hint of violence among a gathering of us so-called "thugs, criminals, and animals" of Allentown, then I KNOW others can do the same.
People are ALREADY asking what's next for BLURB Media/Promotions? Well, they would only tell me that it is another event they plan to do annually that will, eventually, put Allentown, PA in the regional, and, ultimately, national and international spotlight. They want to create an event that will bring people to
A-town and create income for the hotels, eating establishments, retail businesses, and the nightlife. BLURB wants to do something that EVERYONE keeps TALKING about, but not actually DOING. They know it will take time but it's okay. They will cultivate their idea until it grows and takes a life of its' own. How do you think Musikfest, Mayfair, Sportsfest, and even the Allentown Fair got started? They ALL began with a thought and a plan.
CREATIVITY, INGENUITY, CREDIBILITY, AND CONSISTENCY...
Yo, Ben, Christina, and Alfonso, KEEP IT MOVIN' !
-J. BLACK
www.5minutes2shine.blogspot.com
- Kahlil Gibran
It's been two weeks since the event UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II. There have been alot of accolades, thank-you's, congratulatons, offered opportunities, and one or two complaints. I guess when it is all said and done, BLURB Media/Promotions has created one of the most OFFICIAL "UNOFFICIAL" annual events in A-town!
I mean, to be honest, I don't see how they did it. Ben, Christina, and Alfonso actually made it happen that day! Live music, food, children's events, and more lined up on Hamilton between 6th and 7th Street. It was a spectacle to behold as different nationalities came together with their families to enjoy the multi-cultural celebration in Downtown Allentown! All I can say is, see you all next year!
A key point that REALLY needs to be made, though, is that Center City and the surrounding neighborhoods need MORE events like this. There are families in various income brackets that inhabit this city and they deserve a quality event just as much as the next town!
There was dancing in the streets, laughing between neighbors, and the rumor is that over 500 people came through that day! So, if a beginning company can bring together small and large businesses/organizations, local and regional quality entertainment, and have a family event with not one hint of violence among a gathering of us so-called "thugs, criminals, and animals" of Allentown, then I KNOW others can do the same.
People are ALREADY asking what's next for BLURB Media/Promotions? Well, they would only tell me that it is another event they plan to do annually that will, eventually, put Allentown, PA in the regional, and, ultimately, national and international spotlight. They want to create an event that will bring people to
A-town and create income for the hotels, eating establishments, retail businesses, and the nightlife. BLURB wants to do something that EVERYONE keeps TALKING about, but not actually DOING. They know it will take time but it's okay. They will cultivate their idea until it grows and takes a life of its' own. How do you think Musikfest, Mayfair, Sportsfest, and even the Allentown Fair got started? They ALL began with a thought and a plan.
CREATIVITY, INGENUITY, CREDIBILITY, AND CONSISTENCY...
Yo, Ben, Christina, and Alfonso, KEEP IT MOVIN' !
-J. BLACK
www.5minutes2shine.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 4, 2009
DO WE REALLY WANT TO MAKE THAT CHANGE ???
I have just received word that football great Steve McNair was found dead. He was shot in the head. People, what is THIS world coming to?
So, now as I try to refocus my thoughts on the upcoming event, UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II, I feel a sense of dread because the murder, mayhem, and craziness is slowly but surely beginning to find its' way to A-town and this is why, my boy, Alfonso, created this event in the first place. It was to bring people together and celebrate community. It has been a hard road for us all for the past couple of months, but here is a random thought I just happened to pull "out of my hat". It can either be taken to heart or taken like a grain of salt, either way, make sure and TAKE IT!
UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II
This is the second year of the development of a celebration for a city that desperately needs something to celebrate about. The whole nation is under going a transformation when it comes to job loss, family restructuring, government resources, etc and Allentown, PA was not left untouched.
We are struggling with many of the problems major cities have endured but at a smaller scale; and yet, while we may not be as notorious as New York, Philadelphia, or Miami, our quality of life is still being threatened.
THIS is the reason why this event had to be created and put forth despite the lack of support we received from many organizations. We understood that the funding was "JUST WAS NOT THERE" and heard every reason why many could not participate in some form or fashion. Many didn't see the value, others didn't like the bottom line, and others just didn't agree with the concept. Either way, we pushed forward and found those businesses and individuals who knew NOTHING was more important to this City than the residents themselves. We, also, verified that UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II is an event that was created FOR the community and supported BY the community and are extremely proud of this.
So, THANK-YOU to ALL who helped make this day possible.
"We need to be the change we wish to see in the world"
-Gandhi
BLURB Media/Promotions
"While Others TALK, We DO...."
gsands.jimdo.com
-J. BLACK
So, now as I try to refocus my thoughts on the upcoming event, UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II, I feel a sense of dread because the murder, mayhem, and craziness is slowly but surely beginning to find its' way to A-town and this is why, my boy, Alfonso, created this event in the first place. It was to bring people together and celebrate community. It has been a hard road for us all for the past couple of months, but here is a random thought I just happened to pull "out of my hat". It can either be taken to heart or taken like a grain of salt, either way, make sure and TAKE IT!
UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II
This is the second year of the development of a celebration for a city that desperately needs something to celebrate about. The whole nation is under going a transformation when it comes to job loss, family restructuring, government resources, etc and Allentown, PA was not left untouched.
We are struggling with many of the problems major cities have endured but at a smaller scale; and yet, while we may not be as notorious as New York, Philadelphia, or Miami, our quality of life is still being threatened.
THIS is the reason why this event had to be created and put forth despite the lack of support we received from many organizations. We understood that the funding was "JUST WAS NOT THERE" and heard every reason why many could not participate in some form or fashion. Many didn't see the value, others didn't like the bottom line, and others just didn't agree with the concept. Either way, we pushed forward and found those businesses and individuals who knew NOTHING was more important to this City than the residents themselves. We, also, verified that UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN II is an event that was created FOR the community and supported BY the community and are extremely proud of this.
So, THANK-YOU to ALL who helped make this day possible.
"We need to be the change we wish to see in the world"
-Gandhi
BLURB Media/Promotions
"While Others TALK, We DO...."
gsands.jimdo.com
-J. BLACK
Thursday, June 25, 2009
THINGS HAPPEN IN THREE'S......
This week we lost three American Icons....Literally....
Who will ever forget the quote that was so huge it was even placed in a major horror movie created by Stephen King, "HEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEE'SSSSSS JOHNNNY !"
Ed McMahon and his Publisher Clearing House representing-self was the sidekick of the late night host Johnny Carson, who was able to hold his own even after his Tonight Show era was over. In addition, many may remember, he was the host of the "original" American Idol, but back in the day, we called it STAR SEARCH! He was a household name that many people equated to fun, trust, and quality.
Who could ever forget the woman famous for her posters, her smile, and her luxurious blond hair? If you mention Charlie's Angels, Farrah Fawcett is the Angel most people will think of first; but let's not forget the dark drama "THE BURNING BED" which thrust her back into the public eye, after a long hiatus. She had the look of a beauty queen but seemed to exude a personality of someone who was very down-to-earth.
THRILLER, DON'T STOP 'TIL YOU GET ENOUGH, BEAT IT, and countless other songs can only bring one person to mind, Michael Jackson. Who could ever forget his dance moves and his eye-popping videos. Although, controversy seemed to always follow him, people could not deny his talent and star power!
I believe three great American Icons were lost over the past couple of days...you may or may not have agreed with their lifestyles, beliefs, or characterizations, but they all had a great influence on American society during the height of their careers. If nothing else, respect the fact that they worked hard at their crafts and gave people the inspiration to go beyond the norm. May you all REST IN PEACE,
Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson.....
Peace and 1,
J. BLACK
Who will ever forget the quote that was so huge it was even placed in a major horror movie created by Stephen King, "HEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEE'SSSSSS JOHNNNY !"
Ed McMahon and his Publisher Clearing House representing-self was the sidekick of the late night host Johnny Carson, who was able to hold his own even after his Tonight Show era was over. In addition, many may remember, he was the host of the "original" American Idol, but back in the day, we called it STAR SEARCH! He was a household name that many people equated to fun, trust, and quality.
Who could ever forget the woman famous for her posters, her smile, and her luxurious blond hair? If you mention Charlie's Angels, Farrah Fawcett is the Angel most people will think of first; but let's not forget the dark drama "THE BURNING BED" which thrust her back into the public eye, after a long hiatus. She had the look of a beauty queen but seemed to exude a personality of someone who was very down-to-earth.
THRILLER, DON'T STOP 'TIL YOU GET ENOUGH, BEAT IT, and countless other songs can only bring one person to mind, Michael Jackson. Who could ever forget his dance moves and his eye-popping videos. Although, controversy seemed to always follow him, people could not deny his talent and star power!
I believe three great American Icons were lost over the past couple of days...you may or may not have agreed with their lifestyles, beliefs, or characterizations, but they all had a great influence on American society during the height of their careers. If nothing else, respect the fact that they worked hard at their crafts and gave people the inspiration to go beyond the norm. May you all REST IN PEACE,
Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson.....
Peace and 1,
J. BLACK
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Saying What You Mean and Meaning What You Say...
"Rusty DePass, a prominent South Carolina GOP activist, is in trouble after describing an escaped gorilla at a South Carolina zoo as an “ancestor” of First Lady Michelle Obama.
The bout of "foot-in-mouth" disease started when Trey Walker, an advisor to S.C. Attorney General Henry McMaster, posted a Facebook update about the escape of a Western Lowlands Gorilla from Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo, which occured on Friday.
DePass then replied:
“I’m sure it’s just one of Michelle’s ancestors — probably harmless."
DePass, after facing criticism even from his own party, told WIS-TV:
"I am as sorry as I can be if I offended anyone. The comment was clearly in jest."
- SNAFU-ed....Situation Normal, June 14, 2009
It doesn't shock me that this was an incident that occurred in South Carolina or that it came from a person who has influence and direct access to people in prominent leadership roles; what surprised me is that he put his thoughts on FACEBOOK and thought nothing of it. If technology is a double-edged sword then community websites are the inconspicuously hidden daggers.
Many a job has been lost, relationship has been broken, and friendship has been tested due to PUBLIC comments and pages that many believed were private.
How do you explain those words that have been put out there for ALL to see, whether intentionally or accidentally? The only question that remains is did you MEAN what you posted?
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
The bout of "foot-in-mouth" disease started when Trey Walker, an advisor to S.C. Attorney General Henry McMaster, posted a Facebook update about the escape of a Western Lowlands Gorilla from Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo, which occured on Friday.
DePass then replied:
“I’m sure it’s just one of Michelle’s ancestors — probably harmless."
DePass, after facing criticism even from his own party, told WIS-TV:
"I am as sorry as I can be if I offended anyone. The comment was clearly in jest."
- SNAFU-ed....Situation Normal, June 14, 2009
It doesn't shock me that this was an incident that occurred in South Carolina or that it came from a person who has influence and direct access to people in prominent leadership roles; what surprised me is that he put his thoughts on FACEBOOK and thought nothing of it. If technology is a double-edged sword then community websites are the inconspicuously hidden daggers.
Many a job has been lost, relationship has been broken, and friendship has been tested due to PUBLIC comments and pages that many believed were private.
How do you explain those words that have been put out there for ALL to see, whether intentionally or accidentally? The only question that remains is did you MEAN what you posted?
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
RANDOM THOUGHTS FROM MY INTERNET TRAVELS....
Sometimes, as I travel through the "blogosphere", I come across topics that get my passionate nature flowing. I often go through the local blog sites and find topics that make me happy, sad, angry, and excited, (sometimes simultaneously). Either way, I tend to write responses that I feel should be shared with you, my readers. So here are MY random thoughts. ENJOY....
I just want to let everyone know that I have met many who feel as she does and even I had the "college educated and metropolitan-experienced superiority complex" when I first moved to Behthlehem, PA. But 7 years later, I am still in the LV and consider myself fortunate to be here. I also realized that whether you have a doctorate, degree, diploma, certification, or are just a graduate from "the school of hard knocks", we all have to put our pants on one leg at a time.
Honestly, I am just trying to be a peacemaker because with the debt of the city, community organizations losing funding, a mayoral race, and GM tanking, I believe we all should be trying to come together rather than tearing each other apart. That's just my humble opinion though..
I experience intolerance EVERY DAY in the Valley when I read these blogs in the Mcall that do NOT just come Nazareth. I experience it as I walk the streets of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton and I go into their court houses and see every one from the judge to the bailiff to the recorder is White and the only people of color in the whole building are those in shackles and heading up state. I experience it as I walk into the City Halls and go to talk about events and issues and find the leaders of the City, as well as department heads, seem surprised that this young Black man has actually rallied and organized people to do positive projects. Intolerance is not just about racial slurs, white sheets, and swastikas, it's about deliberate non-action. It's about the "ignoring" of a people when you see an OBVIOUS problem. It's about being callous to those who you know need something MORE than welfare and housing, but you just continue to hope the problem disappears and goes away.
And you are right, I am intolerant. I am intolerant of clueless leadership, an assuming public, and people who love to complain and moan but won't step out of their homes and away from the blog world to "make something happen.."
When will Allentown leadership and residents realize that no one is going to be driven away, cleaned out, or transplanted ? We "undesirables" need to be utilized because many of us would rather work than do illegal acivities. Unfortunately, with felony convictions and a lack of education and training, our opportunities are limited and far between; and I'm sorry to say, we refuse to go hungry, let our families go hungry, or even deny ourselves creature comforts, if we know of other ways, whether it is legal or illegal, to make it happen. We aren't telling you to feel sorry for us or even give us welfare, but all of the money being used for Anti-gang Initiatives should be used to create entrepeneurial opportunities and businesses which would be a TRUE Anti-Gang Initiative.
Gangs do inhabit Allentown, as well as persons of color, ex-felons and convicts, young mothers and fathers, those limited in education, and the list goes on and on. THESE are some of the residents of Downtown A-town and many are willing to do constructive and legal work/projects if given the chance. Many have families that they want to support and wish to do tasks that make a decent wage without having to constantly duck, dodge, and look over their shoulders, but if there is nothing out here but hatred, discrimination, naysayers, and government officials overlooking us as if we don't exist, well, then people will do what needs to be done to survive...
FOR THE CITY TO MOVE FORWARD, ALLENTOWN LEADERS NEED TO MEET WITH ALL ALLENTOWN INHABITANTS AND RESIDENTS.
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
I just want to let everyone know that I have met many who feel as she does and even I had the "college educated and metropolitan-experienced superiority complex" when I first moved to Behthlehem, PA. But 7 years later, I am still in the LV and consider myself fortunate to be here. I also realized that whether you have a doctorate, degree, diploma, certification, or are just a graduate from "the school of hard knocks", we all have to put our pants on one leg at a time.
Honestly, I am just trying to be a peacemaker because with the debt of the city, community organizations losing funding, a mayoral race, and GM tanking, I believe we all should be trying to come together rather than tearing each other apart. That's just my humble opinion though..
I experience intolerance EVERY DAY in the Valley when I read these blogs in the Mcall that do NOT just come Nazareth. I experience it as I walk the streets of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton and I go into their court houses and see every one from the judge to the bailiff to the recorder is White and the only people of color in the whole building are those in shackles and heading up state. I experience it as I walk into the City Halls and go to talk about events and issues and find the leaders of the City, as well as department heads, seem surprised that this young Black man has actually rallied and organized people to do positive projects. Intolerance is not just about racial slurs, white sheets, and swastikas, it's about deliberate non-action. It's about the "ignoring" of a people when you see an OBVIOUS problem. It's about being callous to those who you know need something MORE than welfare and housing, but you just continue to hope the problem disappears and goes away.
And you are right, I am intolerant. I am intolerant of clueless leadership, an assuming public, and people who love to complain and moan but won't step out of their homes and away from the blog world to "make something happen.."
When will Allentown leadership and residents realize that no one is going to be driven away, cleaned out, or transplanted ? We "undesirables" need to be utilized because many of us would rather work than do illegal acivities. Unfortunately, with felony convictions and a lack of education and training, our opportunities are limited and far between; and I'm sorry to say, we refuse to go hungry, let our families go hungry, or even deny ourselves creature comforts, if we know of other ways, whether it is legal or illegal, to make it happen. We aren't telling you to feel sorry for us or even give us welfare, but all of the money being used for Anti-gang Initiatives should be used to create entrepeneurial opportunities and businesses which would be a TRUE Anti-Gang Initiative.
Gangs do inhabit Allentown, as well as persons of color, ex-felons and convicts, young mothers and fathers, those limited in education, and the list goes on and on. THESE are some of the residents of Downtown A-town and many are willing to do constructive and legal work/projects if given the chance. Many have families that they want to support and wish to do tasks that make a decent wage without having to constantly duck, dodge, and look over their shoulders, but if there is nothing out here but hatred, discrimination, naysayers, and government officials overlooking us as if we don't exist, well, then people will do what needs to be done to survive...
FOR THE CITY TO MOVE FORWARD, ALLENTOWN LEADERS NEED TO MEET WITH ALL ALLENTOWN INHABITANTS AND RESIDENTS.
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Thursday, June 4, 2009
"HAMILTON FOR RENT" opens TODAY !!!
"Artists Making Use of Vacant Storefronts in Downtown Allentown - “HAMILTON FOR RENT” exhibit starting June 5
A handful of Allentown-based artists will be exhibiting their work in the vacant storefront windows along the 900 block of Hamilton Street beginning Friday evening.
This impromptu show is made up of six artists and features a variety of work including sculpture, wood carvings, street theatre puppets, mechanical animation and collage.
The exhibit shares the artists’ aspirations for downtown Allentown, which includes, of course, a thriving arts district.
This impromptu show is a unique collaboration between downtown realtor, Ron Coleman, and area artists. The show is symbiotic in that it gives the artists an opportunity to share their work with the public, while garnering attention for the vacant buildings that could hopefully result in them being profitably leased.
The show will be installed on Friday, June 5 at 3pm to 5pm and remain on public display for an indefinite time.
Artists featured in “Hamilton For Rent” include:
“Yodi” Duane Vaden – sculptor, street theatre performer, painter, etc.
Gregory Coates - sculptor/painter
Wilhelm Schmidt – wood carver
Sarah Fulton – writer/filmmaker
Matt Lewis - filmmaker
Ryan Fulton - painter
Press Contact: chenarts.info@gmail.com for more information or call “Yodi” Duane Vaden at daven27@hotmail.com."
- Yodi Duane Vaden - local artist
My good friend, Yodi, brought this "urban art exhibit" to my attention and I realized this was a GREAT idea! Not only will it improve the look of empty store fronts but it will expose those who pass by to beautiful art work they may never have had a chance to see.
Making something out of nothing to create something innovative, purposeful, and beautiful, is the way to go in A-town. Let's all be creative and push Allentown, PA forward....
- J. BLACK
www.5minutes2shine.blogspot.com
A handful of Allentown-based artists will be exhibiting their work in the vacant storefront windows along the 900 block of Hamilton Street beginning Friday evening.
This impromptu show is made up of six artists and features a variety of work including sculpture, wood carvings, street theatre puppets, mechanical animation and collage.
The exhibit shares the artists’ aspirations for downtown Allentown, which includes, of course, a thriving arts district.
This impromptu show is a unique collaboration between downtown realtor, Ron Coleman, and area artists. The show is symbiotic in that it gives the artists an opportunity to share their work with the public, while garnering attention for the vacant buildings that could hopefully result in them being profitably leased.
The show will be installed on Friday, June 5 at 3pm to 5pm and remain on public display for an indefinite time.
Artists featured in “Hamilton For Rent” include:
“Yodi” Duane Vaden – sculptor, street theatre performer, painter, etc.
Gregory Coates - sculptor/painter
Wilhelm Schmidt – wood carver
Sarah Fulton – writer/filmmaker
Matt Lewis - filmmaker
Ryan Fulton - painter
Press Contact: chenarts.info@gmail.com for more information or call “Yodi” Duane Vaden at daven27@hotmail.com."
- Yodi Duane Vaden - local artist
My good friend, Yodi, brought this "urban art exhibit" to my attention and I realized this was a GREAT idea! Not only will it improve the look of empty store fronts but it will expose those who pass by to beautiful art work they may never have had a chance to see.
Making something out of nothing to create something innovative, purposeful, and beautiful, is the way to go in A-town. Let's all be creative and push Allentown, PA forward....
- J. BLACK
www.5minutes2shine.blogspot.com
I'M NOT A BUSINESS MAN, I'M A BUSINESS, MAN !"
"In the vicinity of the Fabulous Renaissance Plaza at 9th and Hamilton, we have two more victims of the renaissance. Spooner's Cafe on Hamilton, and the new Crave Lounge have both closed, apparently unable to make a profit from the rebirth-ed downtown of the Pawlowski Administration. How will Pawlowski spin this one? They went the way of the New York Floral, so it is good news for the city, making way for new business in the blossoming metropolis?
Now I need to find a new place for lunch, as these were my favorites.
What is left downtown? No one knows, because everyone has abandoned the place. I predict PPL is the next to go, when their free ride on taxes goes away.
There is a Pawlowski sponsored Arts Organization (is that a contradiction in terms?)trying to start up on the other side of 9th. Of course, not in the Arts Walk area. No arts orgs want to go there. Even the City has given up on the concept after spending boku bucks to create it."
- posted by DJ MENACE
My good friend, DJ Menace, posted the previous blog and while I am very hesitant to take sides and point the finger of blame at anyone, he does make a valid point. What is the City doing about all of these vanishing businesses?
It seems the crusade to rid A-town of "trouble spots" has gone awry and backfired!
There have been alot of businesses that have closed up shop in the past year and very few, if any, have been replaced. The scary part is that small businesses are the very "blood" that is keeping downtown Allentown surviving.
I mean, between LANTA moving the bus stops off of Hamilton Street and the City going after and closing night spots/bars, it almost seems conspiracy-like.
If the master plan was to get rid of alot of the so-called "undesirable merchants", it seems to be working but unfortunately, many of the "desired" ones are being sacrificed, as well.
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Now I need to find a new place for lunch, as these were my favorites.
What is left downtown? No one knows, because everyone has abandoned the place. I predict PPL is the next to go, when their free ride on taxes goes away.
There is a Pawlowski sponsored Arts Organization (is that a contradiction in terms?)trying to start up on the other side of 9th. Of course, not in the Arts Walk area. No arts orgs want to go there. Even the City has given up on the concept after spending boku bucks to create it."
- posted by DJ MENACE
My good friend, DJ Menace, posted the previous blog and while I am very hesitant to take sides and point the finger of blame at anyone, he does make a valid point. What is the City doing about all of these vanishing businesses?
It seems the crusade to rid A-town of "trouble spots" has gone awry and backfired!
There have been alot of businesses that have closed up shop in the past year and very few, if any, have been replaced. The scary part is that small businesses are the very "blood" that is keeping downtown Allentown surviving.
I mean, between LANTA moving the bus stops off of Hamilton Street and the City going after and closing night spots/bars, it almost seems conspiracy-like.
If the master plan was to get rid of alot of the so-called "undesirable merchants", it seems to be working but unfortunately, many of the "desired" ones are being sacrificed, as well.
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Thursday, May 28, 2009
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING....NOT !!!!
So, it seems Bonnie Sweeten is going the same route as Susan Smith,
the South Carolina woman who killed her kids, and the Texan, Ashley Todd, who claimed that fella's burned a "B" in her face during last year's election. What do they all have in common BESIDES being mentally disturbed? They blamed ME for their misfortunes! Well, not me, personally, but it may as well have been. They each said Black men accosted them, kidnapped them, or threatened to do them harm.
Yeah, we do our dirt, don't "get it twisted", but it is very disheartening to see that after centuries of growth in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, people still buy into the notion about the delicate, fair, and virtuous, White woman and the big, monstrous, and brutal Black man. It's a stereotype on both sides of the equation, but a very believable one to many, even in this day and time.
"Sweeten, who is white, described her assailants as black but otherwise gave few details about their appearance,"
- Morning Call, 2009
In reality, I could care less about her deception and lies. I am more concerned about all of the men that you will NOT hear about that were accused, rounded up, and taken in for questioning due to her sinister story. She even had the nerve to say it happened in Philadelphia, of all places!
I mean, they had pictures of Ms. Sweeten and her daughter on nationwide TV, Amber alerts, and if given time, I am sure they would have been on America's Most Wanted. People across the country were riled up and angry, very angry!
So, the dragnet was thrown out, the "usual suspects" brought in, and everyone was a potential target. Well, until today.... Oops.
"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
the South Carolina woman who killed her kids, and the Texan, Ashley Todd, who claimed that fella's burned a "B" in her face during last year's election. What do they all have in common BESIDES being mentally disturbed? They blamed ME for their misfortunes! Well, not me, personally, but it may as well have been. They each said Black men accosted them, kidnapped them, or threatened to do them harm.
Yeah, we do our dirt, don't "get it twisted", but it is very disheartening to see that after centuries of growth in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, people still buy into the notion about the delicate, fair, and virtuous, White woman and the big, monstrous, and brutal Black man. It's a stereotype on both sides of the equation, but a very believable one to many, even in this day and time.
"Sweeten, who is white, described her assailants as black but otherwise gave few details about their appearance,"
- Morning Call, 2009
In reality, I could care less about her deception and lies. I am more concerned about all of the men that you will NOT hear about that were accused, rounded up, and taken in for questioning due to her sinister story. She even had the nerve to say it happened in Philadelphia, of all places!
I mean, they had pictures of Ms. Sweeten and her daughter on nationwide TV, Amber alerts, and if given time, I am sure they would have been on America's Most Wanted. People across the country were riled up and angry, very angry!
So, the dragnet was thrown out, the "usual suspects" brought in, and everyone was a potential target. Well, until today.... Oops.
"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Monday, May 25, 2009
WE MAY AGREE TO DISAGREE BUT THANK A VETERAN FOR THE FREEDOM TO DO THIS
I am unsure why we only use certain holidays to honor those who serve, have served, or have sacrificed their well being in our military. Many men and women, no matter what branch or what reason, have pledged to defend our rights and freedoms, to make our nation the greatest nation in the world!
We DO have our problems, such as attitudes about the government's and public's use of funding:
"I don't care about "diversity" in our population. The problem in the LV is not people of color. It is people who come here to live off of the welfare system. People who have no sense of family. People who take no responsibility for raising their children and discipline them properly. People who are living here illegally. People who consider it normal to have the police involved in their lives on a regular basis. People who illegally send their kids to school districts in which they do NOT reside. People who are living in HUD apartments and driving "pimped out" vehicles, have very expensive electronic toys, etc. but use food stamps. People who drive with a car full of young children, none of them in proper car seats or even using seat belts. People who are move here and try to make the LV like NYC or Philthadelphia or whatever filthy, crime-ridden urban area you want to name. Now, if you can fix Allentown so it becomes a great cultural center with museums, etc. be my guest. Make it a destination. Make it a place for FAMILIES and contributing citizens."
- The Morning Call blogosphere
Or about how we, as Americans, should manage our lives, sacrifice,and DO what needs to be DONE:
"When I look back at what I didn't have growing up in the 1950s in the Coal Region, I am grateful for what I have today. Men in the mines worked just several days a week and most families were supported by the women who mainly worked in the garment industry (my mom was one of them).
We ate a lot of cabbage and potatoes, ring baloney, gizzards, liver, kidneys and spaghetti with meat balls. For Sunday dinner we sometimes ate a roast chicken (rooster) which was so tough it made beef jerkey seem like whipped cream.
On occasion the refrigerator was empty so I ate mustard, mayonaise or onion sandwiches. My Grandma made delicious soup but I refused to look into the pot because you never knew what body part would be floating in the broth.
Most of my clothes were hand me downs from an older cousin. He wore a size 8 shoe, I wore a 10.
Many people in the Coal Region lived the same type of life, and no one cared. In spite of all this, we survived and I went on to better things.
My point is never to give up and try to be grateful for what you have. If you must you might have to change careers or get a better education. You'd be surprised with how many people left the area over the years to get a better life.
If you are eating out regularly, driving a new car, going on vacation or drinking and smoking weed, your life is not as bad as you think."
- The Morning Call blogosphere
But in the end, we need to be APPRECIATIVE, GRATEFUL, and THANKFUL:
"Thankful for the many simple freedoms that most people still take for granted. Thank you to all the veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and to those who have served and are still serving, so that we may enjoy our freedom."
- Leslie Horvath
Today, take a moment and think about ALL of the rights you have and then look at the news or read a paper and see all of the rights, many in the world, don't.
THANK A VETERAN, not just for today, but for EVERYDAY....
Peace and 1,
- J.BLACK
We DO have our problems, such as attitudes about the government's and public's use of funding:
"I don't care about "diversity" in our population. The problem in the LV is not people of color. It is people who come here to live off of the welfare system. People who have no sense of family. People who take no responsibility for raising their children and discipline them properly. People who are living here illegally. People who consider it normal to have the police involved in their lives on a regular basis. People who illegally send their kids to school districts in which they do NOT reside. People who are living in HUD apartments and driving "pimped out" vehicles, have very expensive electronic toys, etc. but use food stamps. People who drive with a car full of young children, none of them in proper car seats or even using seat belts. People who are move here and try to make the LV like NYC or Philthadelphia or whatever filthy, crime-ridden urban area you want to name. Now, if you can fix Allentown so it becomes a great cultural center with museums, etc. be my guest. Make it a destination. Make it a place for FAMILIES and contributing citizens."
- The Morning Call blogosphere
Or about how we, as Americans, should manage our lives, sacrifice,and DO what needs to be DONE:
"When I look back at what I didn't have growing up in the 1950s in the Coal Region, I am grateful for what I have today. Men in the mines worked just several days a week and most families were supported by the women who mainly worked in the garment industry (my mom was one of them).
We ate a lot of cabbage and potatoes, ring baloney, gizzards, liver, kidneys and spaghetti with meat balls. For Sunday dinner we sometimes ate a roast chicken (rooster) which was so tough it made beef jerkey seem like whipped cream.
On occasion the refrigerator was empty so I ate mustard, mayonaise or onion sandwiches. My Grandma made delicious soup but I refused to look into the pot because you never knew what body part would be floating in the broth.
Most of my clothes were hand me downs from an older cousin. He wore a size 8 shoe, I wore a 10.
Many people in the Coal Region lived the same type of life, and no one cared. In spite of all this, we survived and I went on to better things.
My point is never to give up and try to be grateful for what you have. If you must you might have to change careers or get a better education. You'd be surprised with how many people left the area over the years to get a better life.
If you are eating out regularly, driving a new car, going on vacation or drinking and smoking weed, your life is not as bad as you think."
- The Morning Call blogosphere
But in the end, we need to be APPRECIATIVE, GRATEFUL, and THANKFUL:
"Thankful for the many simple freedoms that most people still take for granted. Thank you to all the veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and to those who have served and are still serving, so that we may enjoy our freedom."
- Leslie Horvath
Today, take a moment and think about ALL of the rights you have and then look at the news or read a paper and see all of the rights, many in the world, don't.
THANK A VETERAN, not just for today, but for EVERYDAY....
Peace and 1,
- J.BLACK
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The only VOTE that many cared about this week was the AMERICAN IDOL vote...
Well, we now have new City Council members, judges, and other public officials. Can anyone name five of the winners ? Does anyone even care ? The sad part is that while there seemed to be more people patrolling and politicking at the polls than actually voting, the winners of this election will be making rulings, policy, and deciding on regulations that will affect the residents and communities in the City of Allentown.
So, where was everyone ? What happened to the mad dash of voters that appeared during the Presidential election ? In reality, national events seem to be more stimulating than the regional or local politics that will be effecting us more directly. This seems very backwards to me, but it is the way many, unfortunately, think.
There is, also, a great sense of apathy in A-town. There is an "US" versus "THEM" mentality that keeps people from caring about pretty much anything that has to do with the City. Many believe that the "powers that be" in City Hall could care less about their communities well being. The only items, it seems, received and given to the local neighborhoods are tons of blaring police and fire truck sirens and negative publicity. In fact, the attitudes are so outright negative and accepted about Allentown, that our daily newspaper, The Morning Call, allows people to post the grimiest, most offensive, and vilest words that you can imagine on their public blogosphere. Here are some actual recent examples: (Parental guidance may be suggested due to language)
" are you being serious? tell me something... how can blacks make up around 12 percent of the national population but make up like 60% of the entire prison population? there are blacks who work hard and earn an honest living but that's so rare. most of these **** want to earn their wellfare and just sit at home and do nothing. this is playtime for time, and america is the playground. i say we force the ones that dont want to work back into slavery. that'll teach those coons whose boss around here"
" I don't have any children and no criminal record, actually I'm on a local police eligibility list to become and officer lol.
You rednecking, going to bed with your cousin, toothless, trailer park dwelling, beer bellied , non educated and from slatington, rush limpbaugh listening, smelling like old corn flakes, 3 broken down vehicles on you trailer property as well as trash, meth smoking moron.
how does it make you feel to know that the only reason ur going to be hired as an officer is bc you are black? what did they give you, 10 or 20 extra points to fill minority quotas?
enjoy your job you chicken eating,white woman raping,g.e.d. acquiring,watermelon loving,Old english drinking,stolen car driving,drug dealing,crack smokin,jail overcrowding,welfare obtaining,food stamp collecting animal!
Amused Crack-er wrote:
If anyone wants to see something hilarious, just watch this about Popeye's:
http://www.youtube.com/watch...
One in Rochester, NY ran out of chicken and they interviewed some of the customers. Take note to the customers and listen to the comments. This is some funny stuff!!!
Fat, shiftless, lazy, gluttonous people! How about buying chicken at the supermarket, baking it with potatoes, steaming some broccoli, and having a healthy meal? OMG, you pigs!!!!!
Posting on here as if they don't like fried chicken. White folks down south eat as much if not more fried
chicken and chitlings then blacks (look up the Alabama Chitling Festival) so use another stereotype please. The whole watermelon and chicken thing is old. Racist co ck suckers looking for excuses to vent they're hatred. "
And, many thought racism was over because OBAMA was now the President ? NOT !
So, if you see comments like this on a daily basis, hear nothing but negativity about crime and people in your neighborhood, and are finding it more and more difficult to keep food on the table and your bills paid, then election day really has no importance in your life at this moment. Now, PAY DAY is another story...
I wish all of the newly elected officials good luck and, truly, hope that they aren't just about talking, but are about doing and making things happen in ALL of the communities in A-town; because if they aren't, these are a couple of grassroots meetings/organizations that are getting ready to "GET IT STARTED" with or without them :
ALLENTOWN SPEAK OUT !!!
SAT. MAY30 1:00pm
at the historic
FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH
219 N. 12th ST.
moderated by
Michael Molovinsky
topics including, but not limited to:
parks, bicentennial and lanta, crime, parking authority
Candidate campaigning will be restricted
ALLENTOWN FROM THE GROUND UP
Too often the familiar refrain of “there is nothing to do around here” is spoken by young people living in Allentown Pennsylvania. There are in fact a constant bevy of things to do in the city and it is our goal to illuminate these activities and organize meet -ups on a monthly basis to help reintroduce the possibility of Allentown to its young citizens.
Contact us: atownground@gmail.com
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
So, where was everyone ? What happened to the mad dash of voters that appeared during the Presidential election ? In reality, national events seem to be more stimulating than the regional or local politics that will be effecting us more directly. This seems very backwards to me, but it is the way many, unfortunately, think.
There is, also, a great sense of apathy in A-town. There is an "US" versus "THEM" mentality that keeps people from caring about pretty much anything that has to do with the City. Many believe that the "powers that be" in City Hall could care less about their communities well being. The only items, it seems, received and given to the local neighborhoods are tons of blaring police and fire truck sirens and negative publicity. In fact, the attitudes are so outright negative and accepted about Allentown, that our daily newspaper, The Morning Call, allows people to post the grimiest, most offensive, and vilest words that you can imagine on their public blogosphere. Here are some actual recent examples: (Parental guidance may be suggested due to language)
" are you being serious? tell me something... how can blacks make up around 12 percent of the national population but make up like 60% of the entire prison population? there are blacks who work hard and earn an honest living but that's so rare. most of these **** want to earn their wellfare and just sit at home and do nothing. this is playtime for time, and america is the playground. i say we force the ones that dont want to work back into slavery. that'll teach those coons whose boss around here"
" I don't have any children and no criminal record, actually I'm on a local police eligibility list to become and officer lol.
You rednecking, going to bed with your cousin, toothless, trailer park dwelling, beer bellied , non educated and from slatington, rush limpbaugh listening, smelling like old corn flakes, 3 broken down vehicles on you trailer property as well as trash, meth smoking moron.
how does it make you feel to know that the only reason ur going to be hired as an officer is bc you are black? what did they give you, 10 or 20 extra points to fill minority quotas?
enjoy your job you chicken eating,white woman raping,g.e.d. acquiring,watermelon loving,Old english drinking,stolen car driving,drug dealing,crack smokin,jail overcrowding,welfare obtaining,food stamp collecting animal!
Amused Crack-er wrote:
If anyone wants to see something hilarious, just watch this about Popeye's:
http://www.youtube.com/watch...
One in Rochester, NY ran out of chicken and they interviewed some of the customers. Take note to the customers and listen to the comments. This is some funny stuff!!!
Fat, shiftless, lazy, gluttonous people! How about buying chicken at the supermarket, baking it with potatoes, steaming some broccoli, and having a healthy meal? OMG, you pigs!!!!!
Posting on here as if they don't like fried chicken. White folks down south eat as much if not more fried
chicken and chitlings then blacks (look up the Alabama Chitling Festival) so use another stereotype please. The whole watermelon and chicken thing is old. Racist co ck suckers looking for excuses to vent they're hatred. "
And, many thought racism was over because OBAMA was now the President ? NOT !
So, if you see comments like this on a daily basis, hear nothing but negativity about crime and people in your neighborhood, and are finding it more and more difficult to keep food on the table and your bills paid, then election day really has no importance in your life at this moment. Now, PAY DAY is another story...
I wish all of the newly elected officials good luck and, truly, hope that they aren't just about talking, but are about doing and making things happen in ALL of the communities in A-town; because if they aren't, these are a couple of grassroots meetings/organizations that are getting ready to "GET IT STARTED" with or without them :
ALLENTOWN SPEAK OUT !!!
SAT. MAY30 1:00pm
at the historic
FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH
219 N. 12th ST.
moderated by
Michael Molovinsky
topics including, but not limited to:
parks, bicentennial and lanta, crime, parking authority
Candidate campaigning will be restricted
ALLENTOWN FROM THE GROUND UP
Too often the familiar refrain of “there is nothing to do around here” is spoken by young people living in Allentown Pennsylvania. There are in fact a constant bevy of things to do in the city and it is our goal to illuminate these activities and organize meet -ups on a monthly basis to help reintroduce the possibility of Allentown to its young citizens.
Contact us: atownground@gmail.com
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Monday, May 18, 2009
Peter Piper Picked peppers and Run rocked rhymes....
Politics, parties, paranoia, and peace.... Four things I have seen in A-town this past week.
Politics: Alfonso Todd attended the City Council forum last week at Symphony Hall in downtown A-town. It was sponsored by The Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce who had planned to charge $30.00 at the door. (I understand the need to recoup costs but making people choose between groceries and candidacy views is not cool.) Either way, they changed their minds at the last minute and the cost was dropped. Jen Boulanger, of Allentown's Women's Center was in attendance (see this month's 5 Minutes of Flavor www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com), as was other local past and present City Council members. According to Fonzo, the panel was lively and it was obvious who was "on point" and who was hopelessly "out-gunned and out of their league." This should be an interesting election, to say the least, and many people are not agreeing on the quality of the candidates. (It has been noted on a popular local blog, Lehigh Valley Ramblings, www.lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com that "Allentown is doomed".) I say let's get out and vote tomorrow, May 19th, and attempt to elect people who truly can make a difference in this great City...
Parties: I went to a birthday event on Saturday night at a local spot that, in the past was always fun, had a good vibe, and a packed dance floor. It had its' issues, some weekends, with some customers who became a little "too tipsy and boisterous" and had to be taken out by security, but that's the nature of the beast. Well, once Coca-Cola Park was built, the whole scene was changed from the inside and out. Big screen TV's were brought in, food was served, and like magic, it was transformed into a sports bar! I abruptly stopped going. Well, on Saturday, I attempted to go against my intuition and attend this function for a friend. Even though every fiber in my being said this would not be a good thing for me to experience, I went anyway. I must say, it was "worse" than I could have ever imagined. There was no vibe, the DJ had no flow, and the dance floor stayed empty. (and I am a dancer and will dance to anything!) Back in the day, the DJ used to truly mix the songs and "feel" the patrons and their musical needs so people would sway and move, but this DJ put on TOP 40 music and hoped for the best. I believe the owners did this, on purpose, to change the clientele and get rid of some of us "club riff-raff." I mean if we want to truly "jam", there is a spot called Horizons five minutes away on Airport Road. Anyway, I was saddened by the dramatic change in this place (I arrived at 10:30pm and there were actually less people in the establishment when I left at 12:30am.) The night was summed up as I was approached by a semi-intoxicated male who saw me sulking at a table in a corner and stated, "This is a White man's bar now, man." Indeed.
Paranoia: The job fair at Coca-Cola Park only confirmed what people already know, that decent paying jobs in the Lehigh Valley are in short supply; unemployment benefits are about to run out for many; the swine flu is officially in the area; alot of car dealerships are going out of business; and people are, literally, thinking the SANDS Casino will save us all...Go figure.
Peace: The International Peace Parade held yesterday was awesome! It was a beautiful sight to see all of the different flags, nationalities, and cultures come together and march from downtown Allentown to Bucky Boyle Park! This was needed and appreciated! I have to give a "shout out" to the Arts Illuminarium, Pana Columbus, the artist, Yodi, and every group, volunteer and spectator that came out to make this event happen! Who said that only the West Side can have decent events? The colors, the excitement, the cultural exchange and conversations, and the neighborhoods that normally get nothing but police activity and negative publicity are finally starting to obtain what they have needed all along to improve themselves: utilization, inclusion, and respect.
People are making it happen and it's a great thing to behold !
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Politics: Alfonso Todd attended the City Council forum last week at Symphony Hall in downtown A-town. It was sponsored by The Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce who had planned to charge $30.00 at the door. (I understand the need to recoup costs but making people choose between groceries and candidacy views is not cool.) Either way, they changed their minds at the last minute and the cost was dropped. Jen Boulanger, of Allentown's Women's Center was in attendance (see this month's 5 Minutes of Flavor www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com), as was other local past and present City Council members. According to Fonzo, the panel was lively and it was obvious who was "on point" and who was hopelessly "out-gunned and out of their league." This should be an interesting election, to say the least, and many people are not agreeing on the quality of the candidates. (It has been noted on a popular local blog, Lehigh Valley Ramblings, www.lehighvalleyramblings.blogspot.com that "Allentown is doomed".) I say let's get out and vote tomorrow, May 19th, and attempt to elect people who truly can make a difference in this great City...
Parties: I went to a birthday event on Saturday night at a local spot that, in the past was always fun, had a good vibe, and a packed dance floor. It had its' issues, some weekends, with some customers who became a little "too tipsy and boisterous" and had to be taken out by security, but that's the nature of the beast. Well, once Coca-Cola Park was built, the whole scene was changed from the inside and out. Big screen TV's were brought in, food was served, and like magic, it was transformed into a sports bar! I abruptly stopped going. Well, on Saturday, I attempted to go against my intuition and attend this function for a friend. Even though every fiber in my being said this would not be a good thing for me to experience, I went anyway. I must say, it was "worse" than I could have ever imagined. There was no vibe, the DJ had no flow, and the dance floor stayed empty. (and I am a dancer and will dance to anything!) Back in the day, the DJ used to truly mix the songs and "feel" the patrons and their musical needs so people would sway and move, but this DJ put on TOP 40 music and hoped for the best. I believe the owners did this, on purpose, to change the clientele and get rid of some of us "club riff-raff." I mean if we want to truly "jam", there is a spot called Horizons five minutes away on Airport Road. Anyway, I was saddened by the dramatic change in this place (I arrived at 10:30pm and there were actually less people in the establishment when I left at 12:30am.) The night was summed up as I was approached by a semi-intoxicated male who saw me sulking at a table in a corner and stated, "This is a White man's bar now, man." Indeed.
Paranoia: The job fair at Coca-Cola Park only confirmed what people already know, that decent paying jobs in the Lehigh Valley are in short supply; unemployment benefits are about to run out for many; the swine flu is officially in the area; alot of car dealerships are going out of business; and people are, literally, thinking the SANDS Casino will save us all...Go figure.
Peace: The International Peace Parade held yesterday was awesome! It was a beautiful sight to see all of the different flags, nationalities, and cultures come together and march from downtown Allentown to Bucky Boyle Park! This was needed and appreciated! I have to give a "shout out" to the Arts Illuminarium, Pana Columbus, the artist, Yodi, and every group, volunteer and spectator that came out to make this event happen! Who said that only the West Side can have decent events? The colors, the excitement, the cultural exchange and conversations, and the neighborhoods that normally get nothing but police activity and negative publicity are finally starting to obtain what they have needed all along to improve themselves: utilization, inclusion, and respect.
People are making it happen and it's a great thing to behold !
Peace and 1,
- J. BLACK
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAIN.....
So, I am OFFICIALLY back in action, when it comes to dancing! I am sure many of you have seen my dancing video on YouTUBE and if not, go check it out in this month's LEHIGH VALLEY FLAVOR (www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com). It's just a little "sumthin'sumthin'" I am doing to inspire the young people in the community to get involved and stay away from the negative influences. (I have to give a "shout out" to MY inspiration, Ms. KiKi and the 2 HOT 2 HANDLE Crew, who not only implemented this same plan, but won the NATIONAL DANCE COMPETITION in Hershey Park! She is DEFINITELY making things happen!!)
As for me, I have a crew now too! We are "unofficially" known as THE CRUSADERS OF HIP HOP. A couple of us recently did a performance at the Flower, Flea, and Art Market last Saturday. The adults and children really seemed to enjoy it and we actually received offers for future "paid" appearances. Not bad for a child of the
70's !!!
Catch us THIS weekend in the INTERNATIONAL PEACE PARADE on Sunday, May 17th. It is a historic event that will feature a representation of many of the different cultures that reside in Allentown. Dont' miss it!
Now, for an UPDATE on the weekly "PROTECT THE HOOD" meetings: All is going well and the discussions have been getting very "deep". In fact, we have already implemented a plan of action to create a dialogue with the City so that we can, hopefully, prevent alot of the Summer violence that could occur. We have had the pleasure of being visited by City officials and school administrators who are actually interested in making sure Allentown becomes a better place for future generations. Oh, and by the way, we decided to change the name of the organization. It is no longer "PROTECT THE HOOD", it is now "ALLENTOWN UNITED". Watch out for us, because it is a movement that is LONG overdue...
-J. BLACK
As for me, I have a crew now too! We are "unofficially" known as THE CRUSADERS OF HIP HOP. A couple of us recently did a performance at the Flower, Flea, and Art Market last Saturday. The adults and children really seemed to enjoy it and we actually received offers for future "paid" appearances. Not bad for a child of the
70's !!!
Catch us THIS weekend in the INTERNATIONAL PEACE PARADE on Sunday, May 17th. It is a historic event that will feature a representation of many of the different cultures that reside in Allentown. Dont' miss it!
Now, for an UPDATE on the weekly "PROTECT THE HOOD" meetings: All is going well and the discussions have been getting very "deep". In fact, we have already implemented a plan of action to create a dialogue with the City so that we can, hopefully, prevent alot of the Summer violence that could occur. We have had the pleasure of being visited by City officials and school administrators who are actually interested in making sure Allentown becomes a better place for future generations. Oh, and by the way, we decided to change the name of the organization. It is no longer "PROTECT THE HOOD", it is now "ALLENTOWN UNITED". Watch out for us, because it is a movement that is LONG overdue...
-J. BLACK
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
THE MORE THINGS CHANGE.....
So, I am back ! It was a hell of a weekend and there are many, many, many more to come.
The Mother's and Children's Appreciation Dinner jump-off was crazy !
BLURB Media/Promotions and Lifestyles of the G.S.S. really put it down last Saturday ! There had to be about 60-80 people who showed up ! It was bananas !
I want to give a shout out to all the guest speakers, sponsors, and families who came through. Without you all, this event could not have happened ! To see the highlights, go to Lehigh Valley Flavor (www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com) and Lifestyles of the G.S.S. (www.lifestylesofthegss.piczo.com).
Now back to the business at hand...
"A Schuylkill County jury late Friday acquitted two Shenandoah teens of all serious charges in the fatal beating of an illegal immigrant from Mexico, even though the jury foreman said he considers them ''racists.''
The jury found Brandon Piekarsky, 17, not guilty of third-degree murder and voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, and Derrick Donchak, 19, not guilty of aggravated assault and assault with a deadly weapon in the attack last summer on 25-year-old Luis Ramirez.
Piekarsky and Donchak were both cleared of ethnic intimidation, and Piekarsky was also acquitted of criminal solicitation, underage drinking and reckless endangerment."
- Morning Call
Now, we know that we have modern day pirates, so would you believe this was a modern day lynching ? The MAN, not illegal immigrant, Mexican, or whatever, but human being, was literally "kicked to sleep" and the aggressors were freed.
I have read the arguments and seen the interviews. I have heard every excuse in the book, about the justification of this person's death and I have learned one thing from it all. It seems "everything" can be justified. Murder, slavery, torture, racism, and the list goes on !
Well, right now there are two fellows putting together a nationwide effort to go to Schuylkill County and show them what a PROTEST is. It's going to be a "hot" summer. Definitely...
J. Black
P.S. Some of the town's people are hoping that this situation blows over, but I'm here to tell them, it won't be doing that any time soon....
The Mother's and Children's Appreciation Dinner jump-off was crazy !
BLURB Media/Promotions and Lifestyles of the G.S.S. really put it down last Saturday ! There had to be about 60-80 people who showed up ! It was bananas !
I want to give a shout out to all the guest speakers, sponsors, and families who came through. Without you all, this event could not have happened ! To see the highlights, go to Lehigh Valley Flavor (www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com) and Lifestyles of the G.S.S. (www.lifestylesofthegss.piczo.com).
Now back to the business at hand...
"A Schuylkill County jury late Friday acquitted two Shenandoah teens of all serious charges in the fatal beating of an illegal immigrant from Mexico, even though the jury foreman said he considers them ''racists.''
The jury found Brandon Piekarsky, 17, not guilty of third-degree murder and voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, and Derrick Donchak, 19, not guilty of aggravated assault and assault with a deadly weapon in the attack last summer on 25-year-old Luis Ramirez.
Piekarsky and Donchak were both cleared of ethnic intimidation, and Piekarsky was also acquitted of criminal solicitation, underage drinking and reckless endangerment."
- Morning Call
Now, we know that we have modern day pirates, so would you believe this was a modern day lynching ? The MAN, not illegal immigrant, Mexican, or whatever, but human being, was literally "kicked to sleep" and the aggressors were freed.
I have read the arguments and seen the interviews. I have heard every excuse in the book, about the justification of this person's death and I have learned one thing from it all. It seems "everything" can be justified. Murder, slavery, torture, racism, and the list goes on !
Well, right now there are two fellows putting together a nationwide effort to go to Schuylkill County and show them what a PROTEST is. It's going to be a "hot" summer. Definitely...
J. Black
P.S. Some of the town's people are hoping that this situation blows over, but I'm here to tell them, it won't be doing that any time soon....
Monday, April 27, 2009
DON"T JUST TALK ABOUT IT, BE ABOUT IT !!
So, my boy, Fonzo decided that instead of releasing the interview of two ACTUAL witnesses of Manuel Young's shooting incident on my blog (the guy shot by police who allegedly had a .38 pistol and had turned to fire), maybe it would be better to place it in the May edition of Lehigh Valley Flavor (www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com). I had to agree because he has readership that "don't stop!"
Anyway, what you will see on the interview will not only be an example of the anger and frustration many are feeling in the inner city of A-town, but also possible solutions and ideas that could assist this city with its goal of improving itself.
It, also, was the birthplace of a new grassroots community group called PROTECT THE HOOD. We had our first meeting this evening. A call was put out to everyone who is tired of the madness occurring in Center City. We had 15 people show up and it consisted of several young adults, gang members, single parents, students, residents and concerned citizens who are ready to make it happen. Many attended in support of Manuel Young. Mr. Young's girlfriend, of seven years, even attended and spoke of her inability to speak to him or to have someone give her a straight answer about his health status. Her frustration was heart breaking....
This is a very eclectic group, to say the least, but at each meeting we are giving information about city and organizational programs, stressing the need for community involvement, creating events and projects that will allow voices to be heard throughout the Valley, discussing the real possibility of entrepreneurship and self sufficiency, and basically changing Allentown from the "inside out."
There are no politics, status symbols, agendas, or judging allowed. We all are important and are allowed to speak, vent, and get our thoughts into the open, in regards to changing this city for the better. It's for our children and our children's children.
It's time to stop allowing people to speak FOR and ABOUT us. We need to speak for ourselves. UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN !
- J. Black
Anyway, what you will see on the interview will not only be an example of the anger and frustration many are feeling in the inner city of A-town, but also possible solutions and ideas that could assist this city with its goal of improving itself.
It, also, was the birthplace of a new grassroots community group called PROTECT THE HOOD. We had our first meeting this evening. A call was put out to everyone who is tired of the madness occurring in Center City. We had 15 people show up and it consisted of several young adults, gang members, single parents, students, residents and concerned citizens who are ready to make it happen. Many attended in support of Manuel Young. Mr. Young's girlfriend, of seven years, even attended and spoke of her inability to speak to him or to have someone give her a straight answer about his health status. Her frustration was heart breaking....
This is a very eclectic group, to say the least, but at each meeting we are giving information about city and organizational programs, stressing the need for community involvement, creating events and projects that will allow voices to be heard throughout the Valley, discussing the real possibility of entrepreneurship and self sufficiency, and basically changing Allentown from the "inside out."
There are no politics, status symbols, agendas, or judging allowed. We all are important and are allowed to speak, vent, and get our thoughts into the open, in regards to changing this city for the better. It's for our children and our children's children.
It's time to stop allowing people to speak FOR and ABOUT us. We need to speak for ourselves. UPWARD BOUND, ALLENTOWN !
- J. Black
Thursday, April 23, 2009
THERE ARE TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY......
I'm sorry I have been away for a minute, but things have been hectic around here. Shooting a demo dance video for my pet project THE COMEBACK OF J. BLACK...", helping promote events (THE MOTHER'S AND CHILDRENS APPRECIATION DINNER on May 2, 2009, www.lifestylesofthegss.piczo.com) and helping Alfonso obtain interviewees for his video segment "5 Minutes of Flavor" (www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com) can be a full time job! But no matter, it's good to be back in the blogosphere.
So, the "word on the street" seems to be differing with the words from City officials when it comes to gang activity in the neighborhoods. WFMZ Channel 69 actually interviewed people who live in the "hood" while I believe the City may be getting their information from studies and speculation. Either way, I received word yesterday, from a reliable source, that about 100 gang members met at Jordan Park earlier this week. No one really knows what is being planned or is about to happen, but we definitely need to be on alert!
Alfonso's partner, Ben Nicholson, was contacted by the best friends of Manuel Young (the man shot by police outside of the bar Medinas last week) and they state that the story presented by the press is totally false! They wanted their story heard and came to us for an exclusive interview. I plan on showing their contrasting point of view very soon. It is raw and unedited, but will give you, my readers, some insight on how many feel and what life is like living in the inner city of Allentown. Parental guidance may be suggested....
Lastly, with all the violence, craziness, and confusion going "hardbody" in A-town (and it's not even summer yet) I had to ask if there is any solution? My boy, Alfonso, said this:
"It is disheartening to learn that we have such an abundance of programs in Allentown and yet there seems to be a growing problem when it comes to gangs, youth violence, and complacency. There is no simple answer, but from what I have experienced in my dealings with ACTUAL people in the community, on a daily basis, this is how they feel:
The City government doesn't care about them or their families
The community outreach programs don't "REALLY" reach out to those who need the assistance
Information about the programs isn't dispersed into the neighborhoods that need them the most
The people running and involved in the programs can't relate to the residents and the problems in the neighborhood
There is no consistency with the programs - "When the money and funding runs out, so do the people"
If people would stop thinking about politics, grants/funding, and status, perhaps a real change could be made in A-town...."
Truer words have never been spoken,
Peace and 1,
-J. Black
So, the "word on the street" seems to be differing with the words from City officials when it comes to gang activity in the neighborhoods. WFMZ Channel 69 actually interviewed people who live in the "hood" while I believe the City may be getting their information from studies and speculation. Either way, I received word yesterday, from a reliable source, that about 100 gang members met at Jordan Park earlier this week. No one really knows what is being planned or is about to happen, but we definitely need to be on alert!
Alfonso's partner, Ben Nicholson, was contacted by the best friends of Manuel Young (the man shot by police outside of the bar Medinas last week) and they state that the story presented by the press is totally false! They wanted their story heard and came to us for an exclusive interview. I plan on showing their contrasting point of view very soon. It is raw and unedited, but will give you, my readers, some insight on how many feel and what life is like living in the inner city of Allentown. Parental guidance may be suggested....
Lastly, with all the violence, craziness, and confusion going "hardbody" in A-town (and it's not even summer yet) I had to ask if there is any solution? My boy, Alfonso, said this:
"It is disheartening to learn that we have such an abundance of programs in Allentown and yet there seems to be a growing problem when it comes to gangs, youth violence, and complacency. There is no simple answer, but from what I have experienced in my dealings with ACTUAL people in the community, on a daily basis, this is how they feel:
The City government doesn't care about them or their families
The community outreach programs don't "REALLY" reach out to those who need the assistance
Information about the programs isn't dispersed into the neighborhoods that need them the most
The people running and involved in the programs can't relate to the residents and the problems in the neighborhood
There is no consistency with the programs - "When the money and funding runs out, so do the people"
If people would stop thinking about politics, grants/funding, and status, perhaps a real change could be made in A-town...."
Truer words have never been spoken,
Peace and 1,
-J. Black
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
SLIPPIN' IN THE DARKNESS........
You know it would almost be laughable if it weren't for the fact that the joke seems to be on US !
The latest "comedy of errors" in regards to Allentown, PA has to do with Daro's Fitness Center. They had a prominent location in downtown A-town and seemed to be trying to take the place of XERTEK, a gym that had been in the same location, previously, for nine years.
Now, to take it back, I run on a daily basis from Hamilton to Cedar Crest Park and I used to pass the new gym and see people doing their early morning work out. One day, a friend of mine, Stacy, caught me running past and came out yelling. She explained how the gym had just opened and she was helping put it together, and how she wanted me to get Alfonso to come and do a video interview with the owner for the e-newsletter, Lehigh Valley Flavor, www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com . She invited me in and introduced me to the owner. He seemed okay. The equipment looked decent. I took a flier and told them I'd let Alfonso know and he'd be in touch. I was happy for Stacy and I made it a point to wave to her as I passed the establishment during my early morning treks.
Let's fast forward two weeks, where I bumped into Stacy at a local clothing store. I asked how she was doing. Her view of Daro's had changed. Apparently, she worked there for weeks and was told when the revenue started to come in, she would reap the rewards. Instead, she was let go and never paid for her past work.
I tend to judge businesses by how they treat their employess and this was not a good look. I told Alfonso and he decided not to give them an interview.
I figured, maybe, this was a case of bad management or a misunderstanding between Stacy and the owner. Who would've thought this would be a sign of things to come....
Well, it seems the City caught wind of Daro's, soon after, and gave them a ceremonial ribbon cutting and endorsements. They even advertised a $99.00/year membership. What do they say about things sounding too good to be true ?
Last weekend, Daro's Fitness Center eased out of town and while calls were made to the police, it didn't stop people from getting scammed royally.
Does it make anyone else nervous when a business, endorsed by the City, can do a "ghetto move" and slip away in the middle of the night (or over the weekend) ?
The latest "comedy of errors" in regards to Allentown, PA has to do with Daro's Fitness Center. They had a prominent location in downtown A-town and seemed to be trying to take the place of XERTEK, a gym that had been in the same location, previously, for nine years.
Now, to take it back, I run on a daily basis from Hamilton to Cedar Crest Park and I used to pass the new gym and see people doing their early morning work out. One day, a friend of mine, Stacy, caught me running past and came out yelling. She explained how the gym had just opened and she was helping put it together, and how she wanted me to get Alfonso to come and do a video interview with the owner for the e-newsletter, Lehigh Valley Flavor, www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com . She invited me in and introduced me to the owner. He seemed okay. The equipment looked decent. I took a flier and told them I'd let Alfonso know and he'd be in touch. I was happy for Stacy and I made it a point to wave to her as I passed the establishment during my early morning treks.
Let's fast forward two weeks, where I bumped into Stacy at a local clothing store. I asked how she was doing. Her view of Daro's had changed. Apparently, she worked there for weeks and was told when the revenue started to come in, she would reap the rewards. Instead, she was let go and never paid for her past work.
I tend to judge businesses by how they treat their employess and this was not a good look. I told Alfonso and he decided not to give them an interview.
I figured, maybe, this was a case of bad management or a misunderstanding between Stacy and the owner. Who would've thought this would be a sign of things to come....
Well, it seems the City caught wind of Daro's, soon after, and gave them a ceremonial ribbon cutting and endorsements. They even advertised a $99.00/year membership. What do they say about things sounding too good to be true ?
Last weekend, Daro's Fitness Center eased out of town and while calls were made to the police, it didn't stop people from getting scammed royally.
Does it make anyone else nervous when a business, endorsed by the City, can do a "ghetto move" and slip away in the middle of the night (or over the weekend) ?
Friday, April 10, 2009
Jump Up To Get Beat Down....
Locally, the buzz in the street is about how City Councilman Michael Donovan got "rocked" in Bucky Boyle Park, in Allentown, PA, where the Weed and Seed Program headquarters is located. Now according to the press, he was leaving a youth meeting at the organization and saw 3 young people, aged 16 to 20, playing with a go-cart on the park's baseball diamond. The go-carts are illegal in A-town. So, after getting in his car to leave, he stopped near the guys and told them they shouldn't have the vehicle in the park. Apparently, some words were exchanged and then Donovan was sucker-punched in the face. On FACEBOOK he wrote that he had a possible broken jaw but was okay...
My people, my people...look, there are many different ways to look at this incident but only one right way to judge it. I've heard some say, he should've let the police handle it; minded his own business and kept it moving; etc but there still is no rational reason for him to get "clocked" as he did.
I don't know how he approached the fella's or what he said to them and in what manner, but, my boy, Alfonso Todd a.k.a Fonzo, told me that Michael Donovan, from his experience, wasn't the kind of man that would "come out of his neck" or say anything rude to anyone in this situation. I do know that some A-town youth do have a problem with authority and discipline. This younger generation is not impressed by age, status, or persona. There is definitely an "us versus them" mentality, on both sides of the spectrum in the community, which has only been widened with this occurence.
But, in all reality, incidents like this, happen everyday. It's an assault which became widespread news because it happened to a publicly known city official. While many are shaking their heads in disbelief and contempt for A-town youth, I hope the "leaders" will now see how important and vital it is to do more than dismiss the urban young people and create "feel good" programs. It's a testament to our society when a man of wisdom (he's a college professor) who was attempting to prevent the kids from getting in trouble, ends up getting knocked down for offering them advice.....
-J. Black
My people, my people...look, there are many different ways to look at this incident but only one right way to judge it. I've heard some say, he should've let the police handle it; minded his own business and kept it moving; etc but there still is no rational reason for him to get "clocked" as he did.
I don't know how he approached the fella's or what he said to them and in what manner, but, my boy, Alfonso Todd a.k.a Fonzo, told me that Michael Donovan, from his experience, wasn't the kind of man that would "come out of his neck" or say anything rude to anyone in this situation. I do know that some A-town youth do have a problem with authority and discipline. This younger generation is not impressed by age, status, or persona. There is definitely an "us versus them" mentality, on both sides of the spectrum in the community, which has only been widened with this occurence.
But, in all reality, incidents like this, happen everyday. It's an assault which became widespread news because it happened to a publicly known city official. While many are shaking their heads in disbelief and contempt for A-town youth, I hope the "leaders" will now see how important and vital it is to do more than dismiss the urban young people and create "feel good" programs. It's a testament to our society when a man of wisdom (he's a college professor) who was attempting to prevent the kids from getting in trouble, ends up getting knocked down for offering them advice.....
-J. Black
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Getting Tough On Protestors and Graffiti Artists
4/13 – “Should medical marijuana be legal?”
- Alfonso Todd, Blurb Media
- David Evans, Drug Free Schools Coalition
- Chris Goldstein, Coalition for Medical Marijuana of New Jersey
- Terry Farley, Former Prosecutor
PRODUCER’S NOTE: For a show about a substance that is supposed to mellow people out, this show was ANYTHING but calm. It also featured one of the first times in show history that Tony actually had to tell guests to stop talking over each other, because the arguments were that strenuous! We also had the guests arguing with each other during breaks and before the show. It made for an outstanding program, and not just because of the arguments, but because the guests’ passion was VERY apparent, as was their extensive knowledge of the topic.
-The Tony Ianelli Show on Channel 69 WFMZ
THIS is for those who didn't believe me yesterday about Fonzo being on TV. See, this is the proof! Well, kind of, anyway.
I see, once again, the Lehigh Valley will be on the world stage, and Allentown, PA, once again, will be on the outside looking in. Apparently, there will be nationwide demonstrations by conservative activists called Tax Day Tea Party Protests. Individuals will be demonstrating all over the Lehigh Valley and some organizers say there are 500 rallies scheduled in all 50 states on tax day.
These will be peaceful protests with guest speakers and discussions. Unfortunately, Allentown won't be participating because of the need for the demonstrators to obtain insurance, fees, etc, Say what ? I see protests every other week on Hamilton Street in downtown Allentown across from City Hall and the post office. Fonzo even had one a year ago, albeit a small one. (see www.projectreal.piczo.com) Either way, I am wondering if it would have been a good idea to waive the administrative cost. Why ? Well, it would have been great to see parts of the community come together and express/demonstrate another point of view for the public's view and, as was mentioned previously by the organizers, there are 500 rallies scheduled in all 50 states on the same day. Could this have not been a way to show the nation that Allentown, PA is here to stay, open for business, and a place where new ideas and policies can be presented for all to see ? It's not exactly a utopia, but like Fonzo explained, we will never know what type of media coverage we may have received from this event...
BUT this is what we have received so far: "Local organizer Kim Schmidtner tells QCD that the Queen City was too difficult to work with what with all its demands for $1 million in liability insurance and the cost of paying for police coverage. The other two Lehigh Valley cities: Much easier, she said.
So the protestors, who were looking at Cedar Beach, decided to just skip Allentown, Schmidtner said."
It's unfortunate, but there are other more important entities than organized protesters who have the same exact attitude regarding A-town...
And from my, "Is it THAT serious?" file, I saw that a 23 year old fellow named Daniel LaTorre has been captured and is supposedly the NERD tagger. If you live here in Allentown, PA, you have seen his work in one way or another. He was very indiscriminate in what he did and where he did it. He tagged buildings, newspaper machines, and tons of other locations. So, he was caught and admitted he belonged to the WSK-Wild Style Krew and stated he was an artist and was trying to gain fame and fortune. I love his ambition and drive but he, definitely, was headed in the wrong direction. The police estimated he did thousands of tags and did over $40,000.00 in damage. Believe this: They are going to make an example out of him. No doubt. So much so, he is getting hit with a charge of a felony to the third degree !
I don't believe this is the fame Daniel desired and it seems to be costing the City a small fortune to clean up. My only question is with so much energy and focus, where were the parents, community organizations, and even the arts associations to assist this young man and, yes, (there are others), to give them a more positive outlet ? It's crazy, but while resources and time are used to vilify this individual, I believe it could have been prevented if the same energy and gusto was used to reach into the community and truly see what is really going on...
-J. Black
- Alfonso Todd, Blurb Media
- David Evans, Drug Free Schools Coalition
- Chris Goldstein, Coalition for Medical Marijuana of New Jersey
- Terry Farley, Former Prosecutor
PRODUCER’S NOTE: For a show about a substance that is supposed to mellow people out, this show was ANYTHING but calm. It also featured one of the first times in show history that Tony actually had to tell guests to stop talking over each other, because the arguments were that strenuous! We also had the guests arguing with each other during breaks and before the show. It made for an outstanding program, and not just because of the arguments, but because the guests’ passion was VERY apparent, as was their extensive knowledge of the topic.
-The Tony Ianelli Show on Channel 69 WFMZ
THIS is for those who didn't believe me yesterday about Fonzo being on TV. See, this is the proof! Well, kind of, anyway.
I see, once again, the Lehigh Valley will be on the world stage, and Allentown, PA, once again, will be on the outside looking in. Apparently, there will be nationwide demonstrations by conservative activists called Tax Day Tea Party Protests. Individuals will be demonstrating all over the Lehigh Valley and some organizers say there are 500 rallies scheduled in all 50 states on tax day.
These will be peaceful protests with guest speakers and discussions. Unfortunately, Allentown won't be participating because of the need for the demonstrators to obtain insurance, fees, etc, Say what ? I see protests every other week on Hamilton Street in downtown Allentown across from City Hall and the post office. Fonzo even had one a year ago, albeit a small one. (see www.projectreal.piczo.com) Either way, I am wondering if it would have been a good idea to waive the administrative cost. Why ? Well, it would have been great to see parts of the community come together and express/demonstrate another point of view for the public's view and, as was mentioned previously by the organizers, there are 500 rallies scheduled in all 50 states on the same day. Could this have not been a way to show the nation that Allentown, PA is here to stay, open for business, and a place where new ideas and policies can be presented for all to see ? It's not exactly a utopia, but like Fonzo explained, we will never know what type of media coverage we may have received from this event...
BUT this is what we have received so far: "Local organizer Kim Schmidtner tells QCD that the Queen City was too difficult to work with what with all its demands for $1 million in liability insurance and the cost of paying for police coverage. The other two Lehigh Valley cities: Much easier, she said.
So the protestors, who were looking at Cedar Beach, decided to just skip Allentown, Schmidtner said."
It's unfortunate, but there are other more important entities than organized protesters who have the same exact attitude regarding A-town...
And from my, "Is it THAT serious?" file, I saw that a 23 year old fellow named Daniel LaTorre has been captured and is supposedly the NERD tagger. If you live here in Allentown, PA, you have seen his work in one way or another. He was very indiscriminate in what he did and where he did it. He tagged buildings, newspaper machines, and tons of other locations. So, he was caught and admitted he belonged to the WSK-Wild Style Krew and stated he was an artist and was trying to gain fame and fortune. I love his ambition and drive but he, definitely, was headed in the wrong direction. The police estimated he did thousands of tags and did over $40,000.00 in damage. Believe this: They are going to make an example out of him. No doubt. So much so, he is getting hit with a charge of a felony to the third degree !
I don't believe this is the fame Daniel desired and it seems to be costing the City a small fortune to clean up. My only question is with so much energy and focus, where were the parents, community organizations, and even the arts associations to assist this young man and, yes, (there are others), to give them a more positive outlet ? It's crazy, but while resources and time are used to vilify this individual, I believe it could have been prevented if the same energy and gusto was used to reach into the community and truly see what is really going on...
-J. Black
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Can't We ALL Just Get Along ?
So, my boy, Alfonso, well, Fonzo for short, was on WFMZ Channel 69 the other day. He was on the Tony Ianelli show, Business Matters. It was crazy because the topic was about the legalization of medical marijuana and he doesn't even smoke ! He has NEVER smoked ! He barely knows what weed even looks like ! LOL! But he did his best and did some online research so he could at least "conversate" intelligently.
But, yo, my pet peeve is this: Why was he not called to do a topic like "Non-profits and how they are affecting the people in Allentown" or "Young entrepreneurs and community leaders in the Lehigh Valley ?" No, he gets asked to be on a show with a topic NO ONE wanted to be associated with. Well, Fonzo said all exposure is good exposure, (unless you're that man in the alley in the long trenchcoat on a sunny day) but I think he is wrong and I've told him so many, many times.
Anyway, I wanted to see the footage and found it hadn't even aired yet, but while looking on the internet I ran across a Morning Call article talking about WFMZ Channel 69 and you KNOW I had to go to their comments page to see what was said and it was DISTURBING !
For those unfamiliar with the Morning Call's articles/blogs comments section, I'll say this: If you like to read some of the rudest, vilest, disrespectful and ignorant rantings, opinions, and beliefs, this might be your schtick....
Apparently, there are some very lonely guys through out the Valley because many were very harsh with their judgments of the news women; the weather guy was ridiculed to no end and poor Jaciel, the lone reporting "person of color", was called a token. Are we still that backwards in the Lehigh Valley ?
The next day, I read about an Obama look-alike who lives in Whitehall, PA and is making his "appearance" work for him by being an impersonator. He is traveling all over the world and doing commercials and events. Again, I went to the the Morning Call comments and found more bitterness and anger. Incredible !
So today, I saw President Obama had eased into the war zone and made a visit with the troops. Awesome! This is what America is all about! Support our soldiers !
U-S-A ! U-S-A! Why did I have to go look ? Did I really expect anything different ? I guess some people will ALWAYS have something bad to say.
My point is this, I don't believe the people who make the mean-spirited comments are a representation of the majority of the Valley, but just to know there are people like this, who still exist, makes me wonder am I wrong when I defend the LV to my friends in Baltimore, NYC, or Philly ?
When will the closed minds open ? When will "diversity" and "multi-culturalism" stop being scary words ? When will people realize that America is and has always been a melting pot and it is overflowing with different colors, cultures, and beliefs in our society ? And, in my opinion, THIS is what makes our country great !
- J. Black
But, yo, my pet peeve is this: Why was he not called to do a topic like "Non-profits and how they are affecting the people in Allentown" or "Young entrepreneurs and community leaders in the Lehigh Valley ?" No, he gets asked to be on a show with a topic NO ONE wanted to be associated with. Well, Fonzo said all exposure is good exposure, (unless you're that man in the alley in the long trenchcoat on a sunny day) but I think he is wrong and I've told him so many, many times.
Anyway, I wanted to see the footage and found it hadn't even aired yet, but while looking on the internet I ran across a Morning Call article talking about WFMZ Channel 69 and you KNOW I had to go to their comments page to see what was said and it was DISTURBING !
For those unfamiliar with the Morning Call's articles/blogs comments section, I'll say this: If you like to read some of the rudest, vilest, disrespectful and ignorant rantings, opinions, and beliefs, this might be your schtick....
Apparently, there are some very lonely guys through out the Valley because many were very harsh with their judgments of the news women; the weather guy was ridiculed to no end and poor Jaciel, the lone reporting "person of color", was called a token. Are we still that backwards in the Lehigh Valley ?
The next day, I read about an Obama look-alike who lives in Whitehall, PA and is making his "appearance" work for him by being an impersonator. He is traveling all over the world and doing commercials and events. Again, I went to the the Morning Call comments and found more bitterness and anger. Incredible !
So today, I saw President Obama had eased into the war zone and made a visit with the troops. Awesome! This is what America is all about! Support our soldiers !
U-S-A ! U-S-A! Why did I have to go look ? Did I really expect anything different ? I guess some people will ALWAYS have something bad to say.
My point is this, I don't believe the people who make the mean-spirited comments are a representation of the majority of the Valley, but just to know there are people like this, who still exist, makes me wonder am I wrong when I defend the LV to my friends in Baltimore, NYC, or Philly ?
When will the closed minds open ? When will "diversity" and "multi-culturalism" stop being scary words ? When will people realize that America is and has always been a melting pot and it is overflowing with different colors, cultures, and beliefs in our society ? And, in my opinion, THIS is what makes our country great !
- J. Black
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Can organic food become an endangered species ???
The word on the street is that the the federal government is lowering health standards for the American public by possibly agreeing to pass a bill that would force organic farmers to use fertilizers and insect sprays to 'protect' the food supply.
I scoped out the following article and thought you all might see the craziness in it too. Read it, follow the links, and write to your congressman and senators asking them to vote NO !
A fellow blogger wrote, "As a country, we need to encourage healthy habits which include stopping putting chemicals in our bodies... So much for supporting a naturally healthy America and decreasing long term medical costs." I am feeling those words immensely....
Bill to Outlaw Organic Gardening
Subject: Monsanto: A bill to outlaw organic farming next week?
US House and Senate are about (in a week and a half) to vote on bill that will OUTLAW ORGANIC FARMING (bill HR 875). There is an enormous rush to get this into law within the next 2 weeks before people realize what is happening.
Main backer and lobbyist is (guess who) Monsanto (aspartame maker) - chemical and genetic engineering giant corporation. This bill will require organic farms to use specific fertilizers and poisonous insect sprays dictated by the newly formed agency to "make sure there is no danger to the public food supply". This will include backyard gardens that grow food only for a family and not for sales.
If this passes then NO more heirloom clean seeds but only Monsanto genetically altered seeds that are now showing up with unexpected diseases in humans.
The name on this outrageous food plan is Food Safety Modernization Act of 2009 (bill HR 875).
THIS IS REAL, FOLKS! PASS THIS ALONG TO ALL CONCERNED ON YOUR MAILING LISTS & CALL YOUR SENATE REPRESENTETIVES TODAY! Get on that phone and burn up the wires. Get anyone else you can to do the same thing. The House and Senate WILL pass this if they are not massively threatened with loss of their position.... They only fear your voice and your vote.
The best thing to do is go to http://www.house.gov/writerep all you have to do is put in your zip and it will give you your congressperson and how to get in touch with them. When you call their office someone will answer the phone, just tell them (politely) that you are calling to express your views on HR 875. Tell them your views, they'll take your name and address and pass your comments along to the congressperson. Congress bill 875
Write to your representative !
DON'T JUST TALK ABOUT IT, BE ABOUT IT !!!
- J.
I scoped out the following article and thought you all might see the craziness in it too. Read it, follow the links, and write to your congressman and senators asking them to vote NO !
A fellow blogger wrote, "As a country, we need to encourage healthy habits which include stopping putting chemicals in our bodies... So much for supporting a naturally healthy America and decreasing long term medical costs." I am feeling those words immensely....
Bill to Outlaw Organic Gardening
Subject: Monsanto: A bill to outlaw organic farming next week?
US House and Senate are about (in a week and a half) to vote on bill that will OUTLAW ORGANIC FARMING (bill HR 875). There is an enormous rush to get this into law within the next 2 weeks before people realize what is happening.
Main backer and lobbyist is (guess who) Monsanto (aspartame maker) - chemical and genetic engineering giant corporation. This bill will require organic farms to use specific fertilizers and poisonous insect sprays dictated by the newly formed agency to "make sure there is no danger to the public food supply". This will include backyard gardens that grow food only for a family and not for sales.
If this passes then NO more heirloom clean seeds but only Monsanto genetically altered seeds that are now showing up with unexpected diseases in humans.
The name on this outrageous food plan is Food Safety Modernization Act of 2009 (bill HR 875).
THIS IS REAL, FOLKS! PASS THIS ALONG TO ALL CONCERNED ON YOUR MAILING LISTS & CALL YOUR SENATE REPRESENTETIVES TODAY! Get on that phone and burn up the wires. Get anyone else you can to do the same thing. The House and Senate WILL pass this if they are not massively threatened with loss of their position.... They only fear your voice and your vote.
The best thing to do is go to http://www.house.gov/writerep all you have to do is put in your zip and it will give you your congressperson and how to get in touch with them. When you call their office someone will answer the phone, just tell them (politely) that you are calling to express your views on HR 875. Tell them your views, they'll take your name and address and pass your comments along to the congressperson. Congress bill 875
Write to your representative !
DON'T JUST TALK ABOUT IT, BE ABOUT IT !!!
- J.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Keeping It Real For the Masses
So, locally, in Allentown, PA, the word on the street is that we are broke. I mean, not broke as in pockets that are turned inside out, but broke as in, not having the money we were TOLD we were going to have; broke to the point where the Mayor has said EVERYTHING is on the table and no one is safe; broke to the point where people in City Hall are afraid of losing THEIR jobs; and broke to the point where private meetings are being held because they don't want us to know exactly how broke the City REALLY is. It looks like Allentown may need a "hustle" of its' own to get by...
And to add insult to injury, we may not be receiving any of the millions of dollars in stimulus money available for "shovel ready" projects because, frankly, we don't have anything that is "shovel ready". So much for the Allentown leaders being organized, prepared, and poised for the future. If we ran our jobs like this city is being managed, we would've been FIRED like yesterday!
Now, all we can do is hope that there are some crumbs left over and maybe something will trickle down to us. Please, bow your heads and let us pray..(that none of our bridges collapse while waiting for these funds).
Internationally, there was a big deal made of Michelle Obama "touching" Queen Elizabeth during the royal ceremony. Apparently, this is a big no-no. But what's worse, is that the Queen touched her affectionately, first. (Oh the horror!)
I believe the Queen was finally happy that some REAL people in a leadership role came to her spot, hooked her up with an I-pod, and didn't kiss her "pomp and circumstance." Again, much ado about nothing. People are starving, being killed, losing homes, and being crippled by debt, and all the news can focus on are two women sharing a warm and genuine moment.
Lastly, for those who hunger for some raw and uncensored spoken word, also known as rap, there is a new site available known as Five Minutes of Fame, (www.fiveminutesoffame.piczo.com) that is "off the chain!" Every month 9-10 local entertainers will be showcasing their talent, whether dancing, singing, spitting i.e. rapping, etc and YOU can vote on who YOU believe is the best! Go take a look. I will say Parental Guidance may be advised due to language and subject matter, but if you allow your kids to look at the movie "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle", does it really matter?
- J. Black
And to add insult to injury, we may not be receiving any of the millions of dollars in stimulus money available for "shovel ready" projects because, frankly, we don't have anything that is "shovel ready". So much for the Allentown leaders being organized, prepared, and poised for the future. If we ran our jobs like this city is being managed, we would've been FIRED like yesterday!
Now, all we can do is hope that there are some crumbs left over and maybe something will trickle down to us. Please, bow your heads and let us pray..(that none of our bridges collapse while waiting for these funds).
Internationally, there was a big deal made of Michelle Obama "touching" Queen Elizabeth during the royal ceremony. Apparently, this is a big no-no. But what's worse, is that the Queen touched her affectionately, first. (Oh the horror!)
I believe the Queen was finally happy that some REAL people in a leadership role came to her spot, hooked her up with an I-pod, and didn't kiss her "pomp and circumstance." Again, much ado about nothing. People are starving, being killed, losing homes, and being crippled by debt, and all the news can focus on are two women sharing a warm and genuine moment.
Lastly, for those who hunger for some raw and uncensored spoken word, also known as rap, there is a new site available known as Five Minutes of Fame, (www.fiveminutesoffame.piczo.com) that is "off the chain!" Every month 9-10 local entertainers will be showcasing their talent, whether dancing, singing, spitting i.e. rapping, etc and YOU can vote on who YOU believe is the best! Go take a look. I will say Parental Guidance may be advised due to language and subject matter, but if you allow your kids to look at the movie "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle", does it really matter?
- J. Black
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
THE GENESIS
So, here I am. Thinking, writing, wondering, and creating.....When Alfonso asked me to do this blog, I was like, "What the hell?!" Don't I do ENOUGH for him when it comes to his e-newsletter, Lehigh Valley Flavor (www.lehighvalleyflavor.piczo.com) ? Plus, he has me dancing this summer and doing "performance art" of ALL things. I don't know. If he keeps this up, I may have to REALLY come thru and show him how it's really done. Well, just so everyone knows, I am J. Black. You may have heard of me. I had a little company called J. Black Productions and Promotions and was well known in Allentown when it came to photography and such a couple of years ago. Unfortunately, due to some 'messed up" incidents, it all went down the drain. I won't bore you with the details, but let's just say, there are many people in this world who say they want it, but in reality, are not willing to do what it takes to GET it ! I am going full steam with this blog , though, and am going to make sure that my voice is NEVER muffled again because THIS time I'm not depending on ANYONE but ME, MYSELF, and I. I am assisting Alfonso and his new partner, Ben Nicholson, (www.lifestylesofthegss.piczo.com) with some new up-coming projects, but I mainly will be the one out there causing a ruckus and making you take a double take. The reason being, is because like my profile picture, "I am tired of people looking at me sideways..." So be prepared! I am going to say what I want, how I want, and when I want on ANY issue whether local, regional, or international because like my man, Cedric the Entertainer said, " I'm a grown-ass man!" Lehigh Valley may not be ready for this, but HERE I AM and I ain't going NOWHERE! So, let's keep it real and keep it funky!!!! - J
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