Everyone's Blog Posts - The International Black Summit Network
2024-03-29T12:35:31Z
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Celebration of the Life & Legacy of My Mother Rosetta Gamble Brown
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2016-05-20:2176111:BlogPost:49682
2016-05-20T23:32:06.000Z
LaTosha Love Brown
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/LaToshaLoveBrown
<p><span>This week my mother transitioned this week after a two year battle with cancer. While this has been a particularly challenging year it has also provide a beautiful experience for she and I to spend everyday together. My mother is the epitome of strength and resilience. <br></br></span></p>
<p></p>
<p>My mother was born in Orville, Alabama the last of eleven children to Nellie and Joseph Gamble. Rosetta was born on July 17, 1947. At the age of 3 the family moved to Mobile for greater work…</p>
<p><span>This week my mother transitioned this week after a two year battle with cancer. While this has been a particularly challenging year it has also provide a beautiful experience for she and I to spend everyday together. My mother is the epitome of strength and resilience. <br/></span></p>
<p></p>
<p>My mother was born in Orville, Alabama the last of eleven children to Nellie and Joseph Gamble. Rosetta was born on July 17, 1947. At the age of 3 the family moved to Mobile for greater work opportunities. My grandparents were respected working class people in Mobile. My mom was very active in high school as a honors student, band member and involved in several clubs at the all black Williamson High School. She loved her high school experience at Williamson. However, the local postman and president of the NAACP and civil rights leader Mr. John Leflore thought my Mom was a perfect student to help integrate the schools in Alabama. Mr. Leflore came met with my grandparents in 1963 and convinced them to allow my mother to be part of a small group of students to enroll in the all white Murphy High School.</p>
<p><br/><span>Murphy High school was the largest high school in the state of Alabama with a student body of more than 3300 students. The NAACP thought that it was strategically necessary to integrate this particular school based on the school size and history.</span></p>
<p><br/><span>The 5th Circuit Court decided that it would be "unfair" to send black students to the white school because the black students would not be able to meet the rigorous academic standards as white students, therefore they required the black students to test in order to enroll in the school. Five black students blew the tests out the water and my mother, Rosetta Brown was one of them. </span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>My mother along with the Davis sisters (Birdie and Betty) were given mental agility tests, academic tests and psychological tests and then screened before they were allowed to enroll into Murphy High School. The environmental was so hostile that the three students had to be escorted by federal agents to class each day. The NAACP provided legal counsel. The student body was made up of 3300 whites in a very hostile environment. The student body held several protest marches to prevent black students from attending the school.</span></p>
<p><br/><span>During my mother's senior year in school senior year she was assaulted by a white male student for entering the cafeteria. He threw spaghetti on her dress and then put "something cold" (thought to be a gun) to the side of her head. He was immediately apprehended and tackled to the floor by the federal agents who had been escorting my mother and Birdie Mae to class. Although the racist man was</span> <span>expelled it was later discovered that he was a member of a white supremacist group. A few years later he blew up a synagogue in Mississippi that killed several people and he was later given a life prison sentence.</span><br/><br/>My mother was a part of what was known as the historic federal Civil Rights case called the Birdie Mae Davis case. She and Birdie Mae Davis graduated from Murphy High school and the school was finally integrated in 1965. <span>After high school she went to Kent State and later attended Tuskegee Institute. Years later in her adult life she moved back to Mobile where she lived until her illness.</span><br/><br/><span>In 1975, my Mom was in a car accident where she was pronounced dead at the scene. She was revived after 7 minutes. She also lost her right eye and shattered her collar bone in the accident. Although she suffered major injuries her fight and resilience brought her back home in a few months. She has always been very blessed and lucky woman.</span><br/><br/><span>At the age of 38, my Mom went back to college and became the Homecoming Queen at Birmingham Southern College. She was always very proud of that! (smile)</span><br/><br/><span>In 1998 she was honored by the National Voting Rights Museum with a Freedom Flame award along with Johnnie Cochran. This was a highlight of her life!</span><br/><br/><span>On May 17th she succumbed to breast cancer but she fought a long and hard fight up until the very end. She was a lifelong resident of Mobile. There is so much that I can share about my mother. Most importantly, she was the absolute love of my life. I miss her! </span></p>
Afrikan Community Sustainability Collective Hosts Virtual Conference On Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2016-01-04:2176111:BlogPost:47811
2016-01-04T22:33:27.000Z
LaTosha Love Brown
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/LaToshaLoveBrown
<p class="font_8">The Afrikan Community Sustainability Collective welcomes you on your journey to self-sufficiency. On January 28-February 1, we will present the first (virtual) Sustainability Summit focused on serving members of the Afrikan diaspora and connecting thought leaders. Keynote sessions are built around the most pressing issues in the Black community and will feature members who are doing the work. Strategic areas of focus include:</p>
<p class="font_8"> …</p>
<p class="font_8">The Afrikan Community Sustainability Collective welcomes you on your journey to self-sufficiency. On January 28-February 1, we will present the first (virtual) Sustainability Summit focused on serving members of the Afrikan diaspora and connecting thought leaders. Keynote sessions are built around the most pressing issues in the Black community and will feature members who are doing the work. Strategic areas of focus include:</p>
<p class="font_8"> </p>
<p class="font_8">Starting January 28, for five (5) days of best practices and how-to information as we explore practical ways to incorporate sustainability into our daily lives, homes and communities. </p>
<p class="font_8"></p>
<p class="font_8">Sustainable Food Production Historic Black Townships</p>
<p class="font_8">Alternative Energy Water Purification and Irrigation</p>
<p class="font_8">Eco Friendly Building Practices Food Preservation</p>
<p class="font_8">Community Development Survival/Preparedness/Protection</p>
<p class="font_8">Current Sustainable Communities</p>
<p class="font_8"></p>
<p class="font_8">Our goal is to assist others in creating communities dedicated to returning to the ways of our Ancestors by living in harmony with nature, growing our own food and using the natural energies of air, fire, water and the earth to thrive. </p>
<p class="font_8">We invite you to join us on our mission to:</p>
<ul class="font_8">
<li><p class="font_8">mobilize committed <span><a href="http://www.blacksustainabilitysummit.com/#!terms-of-use/c2qc" target="_self">Afrikan</a></span> people,</p>
</li>
<li><p class="font_8">exchange knowledge,</p>
</li>
<li><p class="font_8">implement skills and,</p>
</li>
<li><p class="font_8">pool our resources to build sustainable communities throughout the <span><a href="http://www.blacksustainabilitysummit.com/#!terms-of-use/c2qc" target="_self">Afrikan</a></span> diaspora and on the continent.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p class="font_8"> </p>
<p class="font_8">We look forward to building interrelationships between Blacks/Afrikans living in or working to create sustainable communities with novices, intermediate level and advanced level attendees willing and ready to create or become a part of a sustainable community. This summit will bridge the communication gap between those Afrikans already working in sustainable communities globally. Join us and become an integral component of this historic event!</p>
<p class="font_8"></p>
<p class="font_8"><span class="font-size-3"><strong>REGISTER: <a href="http://www.blacksustainabilitysummit.com">www.blacksustainabilitysummit.com</a></strong></span></p>
The Benefits of an Online Nursing Degree
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2015-11-21:2176111:BlogPost:47498
2015-11-21T07:09:38.000Z
lewis ahmed
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/lewisahmed
<p>First of all one must say thanks to the internet, those who would normally have educational options closed to them due to the time involved now have new options to consider. It is now possible to get an online nursing degree without ever stepping into a classroom, from a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) all the way up to a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The overwhelming convenience of having classes available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week is a powerful draw, as is the ability to move as slowly…</p>
<p>First of all one must say thanks to the internet, those who would normally have educational options closed to them due to the time involved now have new options to consider. It is now possible to get an online nursing degree without ever stepping into a classroom, from a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) all the way up to a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The overwhelming convenience of having classes available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week is a powerful draw, as is the ability to move as slowly or as quickly through the course as necessary to match your learning needs.</p>
<p>There is a big shortage of nurses today all over the country and all sorts of establishments are looking for people to fill positions. Programs have been developed to deal with that shortage, including accelerated <strong><a href="http://aimsely.com/" target="_blank">online nursing degree programs</a></strong> that are used to get nurses out into the workforce as quickly as possible. These often require the student to already have a bachelor degree, but an RN is not required - that will come once the course is done. This is a great option for those who don't want to, or are unable to, take full time classes.</p>
United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2015-11-05:2176111:BlogPost:47682
2015-11-05T02:43:15.000Z
LaTosha Love Brown
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/LaToshaLoveBrown
<h2 class="h1">Programme of Activities for the Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent</h2>
<p>The UN General Assembly proclaimed 2015-2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent (<a href="http://www.un.org/en/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/68/237">resolution 68/237</a>) citing the need to strengthen national, regional and international cooperation in relation to the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights…</p>
<h2 class="h1">Programme of Activities for the Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent</h2>
<p>The UN General Assembly proclaimed 2015-2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent (<a href="http://www.un.org/en/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/68/237">resolution 68/237</a>) citing the need to strengthen national, regional and international cooperation in relation to the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights by people of African descent, and their full and equal participation in all aspects of society.</p>
<p>As proclaimed by the General Assembly, the theme for the International Decade is “People of African descent: recognition, justice and development.”</p>
<h3>Objectives of the Decade</h3>
<p>The main objectives of the International Decade are as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>Promote respect, protection and fulfilment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by people of African Descent, as recognized in the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/documents/udhr/">Universal Declaration of Human Rights</a>;</li>
<li>Promote a greater knowledge of and respect for the diverse heritage, culture and contribution of people of African descent to the development of societies;</li>
<li>Adopt and strengthen national, regional and international legal frameworks according to the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/durbanreview2009/">Durban Declaration and Programme of Action</a> and the<a href="http://www.ohchr.org/EN/ProfessionalInterest/Pages/CERD.aspx">International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination</a> and to ensure their full and effective implementation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Programme of Activities implementation</h3>
<p>The Programme of Activities for the Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent, which was endorsed by the General Assembly, is to be implemented at several levels.</p>
<p>At the <strong>national level</strong>, states should take concrete and practical steps through the adoption and effective implementation of national and international legal frameworks, policies and programmes to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance faced by people of African descent, taking into account the particular situation of women, girls and young males in the following areas:</p>
<div class="clear"></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/recognition.shtml">Recognition</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/justice.shtml">Justice</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/development.shtml">Development</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/discrimination.shtml">Multiple or aggravated discrimination</a></li>
</ul>
<p>At the <strong>regional and International levels</strong>, the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/international.shtml">international community and international and regional organizations</a> are called, among other things, to raise awareness, disseminate the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, assist states in the full and effective implementation of their commitments under the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, collect statistical data, incorporate human rights into development programmes and honour and preserve historical memory of people of African descent.</p>
<div class="col-md-5 image-wrapper-right"><img src="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/assets/img/plan-action_2.jpg" alt=""/>Three generations of Gangá Longobá. The Gangá Longobá where enslaved and forced to work the sugar cane plantations in the XIX century (Cuba). © Sergio Leyva Seiglie, They Are We Project
</div>
<p>There are also a number of steps and measures to be taken by the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/generalassembly.shtml">United Nations General Assembly</a>, including the appointment of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to act as coordinator of the Decade, the establishment of a forum to serve as a consultation mechanism, convening of a final assessment of the Decade, and ensuring the completion of the construction and the inauguration, before the mid-term review in 2020, of a permanent memorial at UN Headquarters to honour the memory of the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.</p>
Embracing Fear
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2014-07-05:2176111:BlogPost:43051
2014-07-05T21:30:06.000Z
Melissa Rowe
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/MelissaRowe
<p> </p>
<p>Embracing Fear</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I recently co-authored a chapter in a book together with 24 other authors called Embracing fear in its many guises. What does it really mean to embrace our fears?</p>
<p>I have come to realize that fear is a major influence in every one of our lives, but not always to the negative. And there are plenty of opportunities for that healthy fear to work its miracles, at the same time guiding us this way and that, alerting and aligning us with what is good…</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Embracing Fear</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I recently co-authored a chapter in a book together with 24 other authors called Embracing fear in its many guises. What does it really mean to embrace our fears?</p>
<p>I have come to realize that fear is a major influence in every one of our lives, but not always to the negative. And there are plenty of opportunities for that healthy fear to work its miracles, at the same time guiding us this way and that, alerting and aligning us with what is good and right in our world. I believe how we respond to our individual and personal fears is related to how we respond as communities, to what we see as external factors that we are currently facing, or have yet to face.</p>
<p> I believe that when we make the decision to face our individual fears, we are contributing to the transformation of the world one person at a time. The ripples</p>
<p>coming from our individual efforts to grow may be small, but they are there.</p>
<p>We cannot drop a pebble in the pond without creating a ripple effect. The</p>
<p>personal growth work that we do is the pebble in the pond, creating its own ripple</p>
<p>effect. How we treat our family and friends, and even the person standing next</p>
<p>to us in line are our pebbles in the pond. it begins with embracing our own fears.</p>
<p>For me fear became my constant companion, and as it cycled through my mind and reinforced old thoughts, moment by moment. I discovered that fear can make it impossible for me to see the light ahead. I was able to recognize that the issue is not fear itself, but rather how I identify and manage my fears.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Click on the link below to purchase copies of the book Pebbles in the Pond 3</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://melissarowe.ca/blog/?page_id=590">http://melissarowe.ca/blog/?page_id=590</a></p>
#BorderLessVisions
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2014-01-24:2176111:BlogPost:43114
2014-01-24T17:11:12.000Z
Afua Coddett
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/AfuaCoddett
<p>I'm so charged up! Just met with 21 of the 28 young people who will e traveling with us to Halifax, NS this spring on our first #YMCAExhcange....One of the best outcomes ever is already happening....Francophone youth are well represented and they are already getting my creative juices flowing for the expansion we have been dreaming of for a number of years....Delivery of the Black Youth Conference in French and the French speaking facilitators we have now training with them at the BeMore…</p>
<p>I'm so charged up! Just met with 21 of the 28 young people who will e traveling with us to Halifax, NS this spring on our first #YMCAExhcange....One of the best outcomes ever is already happening....Francophone youth are well represented and they are already getting my creative juices flowing for the expansion we have been dreaming of for a number of years....Delivery of the Black Youth Conference in French and the French speaking facilitators we have now training with them at the BeMore Academy...I feel good all over....</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559753973?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559753973?profile=original" width="720" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p>Support this initiative by clicking below. These #BorderLessVisions can not be contained!</p>
<p><a href="http://http://www.gofundme.com/5wmug4" target="_blank">GoFundMe</a></p>
90 Day Enhancement Program - Last program at old price structure
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2013-01-30:2176111:BlogPost:41348
2013-01-30T18:15:06.000Z
Glenn Greenidge
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/GlennGreenidge
<p>We will be starting our next program within the next week. This will be the last program @ $300 for 15 weeks of coaching by Byron & myself. If you have a project/vision that has not manifested this may be the program to "deliver the goods". We have the space for possibly 2 more participants, we have some outstanding paperwork that will determine the closeout of this program. …</p>
<p></p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0">
<tbody><tr><td valign="top" width="160"></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We will be starting our next program within the next week. This will be the last program @ $300 for 15 weeks of coaching by Byron & myself. If you have a project/vision that has not manifested this may be the program to "deliver the goods". We have the space for possibly 2 more participants, we have some outstanding paperwork that will determine the closeout of this program. </p>
<p></p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0">
<tbody><tr><td width="160" valign="top"><p align="center">Preparation</p>
<p align="center">Creating a solid Plan</p>
</td>
<td width="160" valign="top"><p align="center">Productivity</p>
<p align="center">Getting into action</p>
</td>
<td width="160" valign="top"><p align="center">Play</p>
<p align="center">Enjoying the thrill of achievement</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p>The 90 Day Enhancement Program is a 15 week coaching program geared to accelerate project development and achievement. It consists of a weekly 1 hour call, assignments, and a team of partners that will support you in moving your vision from ideas to tangible (goals, action items, practices and behaviors) plans around which you will produce results. Participants select up to 5 projects to get off the ground, moving them from the idea phase into high momentum during the 90 days.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The program woke me up – in terms of rigor and being able to accomplish. </p>
<p></p>
<p>I am a great manager of other people’s projects, but never had been able to focus on creating and workin’ my plan or a plan that is based around my projects and my life. </p>
<p></p>
<p>I always knew I could do it, and that was the blessing that I was able to achieve in the 90 Day Enhancement Program. I am getting the right things done. My focus is where it should be. Driving that sucker within 90 days, is different from I will get it done sometime this year. </p>
<p></p>
<p>The 90 Day Enhancement has got me in high momentum. I am energized to produce results every day on my dream projects that had been on the shelf for years before this program.</p>
<p></p>
<p>I am energized and optimistic about my work again!</p>
<p></p>
<p>The program had me see what was in the way of me producing a higher level of results.</p>
<p></p>
<p>The coaching is invaluable. I would have never been able to do this on my own. </p>
<p></p>
<p align="center"><b>Next Programs</b><br/>Monday Course TBD, January 2013 <br/>Friday or Wednesday Course TBD, January 2013</p>
<p align="center">$20 per wk/$300 per program</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center">To enroll or inquiry call: Byron Johns <b>310-801-0113</b> or Glenn Greenidge <b>347-776-7817</b></p>
<div><b> </b></div>
Welcome To IBS's Website
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2013-01-23:2176111:BlogPost:41152
2013-01-23T16:30:00.000Z
Chekesha Showers
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhlylisShowers
<p>Week of Jan 21, 2013</p>
<p>Welcome Ralph,</p>
<p>Thanks for updating your profile and revisting our site</p>
<p>Which Summit Did you board the train on?</p>
<p>Ralph, I remember your great share of how you got to the Chicago Summit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>-From Chekesha-Ralph, I remember your great share of how you got to the Chcago Summit.</p>
<p>Please send a shout out to Llenar.</p>
<p>Week of Jan 21, 2013</p>
<p>Welcome Ralph,</p>
<p>Thanks for updating your profile and revisting our site</p>
<p>Which Summit Did you board the train on?</p>
<p>Ralph, I remember your great share of how you got to the Chicago Summit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>-From Chekesha-Ralph, I remember your great share of how you got to the Chcago Summit.</p>
<p>Please send a shout out to Llenar.</p>
My first day in Paris, France
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-11-26:2176111:BlogPost:3338
2012-11-26T04:22:35.000Z
Chekesha Showers
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhlylisShowers
<p></p>
<p>May 13, 2010</p>
<p>I landed in Paris France at 9am. I caught the shuttle rode it to bus station took bus 351 it was a 2 hour trek I got off bus and got on their metro. Then came out of metro(their subway) took me 40 minutes to get my bearing. Had a run in with a sandwich shop owner didnt want me to get a order to eat there. I went down one block sat down at outside cafe and the waiter was very helpful. help me to locate the Hostel I am staying at the first night before the…</p>
<p></p>
<p>May 13, 2010</p>
<p>I landed in Paris France at 9am. I caught the shuttle rode it to bus station took bus 351 it was a 2 hour trek I got off bus and got on their metro. Then came out of metro(their subway) took me 40 minutes to get my bearing. Had a run in with a sandwich shop owner didnt want me to get a order to eat there. I went down one block sat down at outside cafe and the waiter was very helpful. help me to locate the Hostel I am staying at the first night before the conference. I am tired its around 3 pm will go and eat and then go upstairs and take a nap.</p>
Are You Ready for the Next Fiscal Year
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-10-14:2176111:BlogPost:39888
2012-10-14T18:11:40.000Z
Eula M. Guest, COO
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/EulaMYoungCOO
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754509?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754509?profile=original" width="316"></img></a></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Are You Ready for the rest of 2012</strong></p>
<p><strong>This is the time of year when entrepreneurs and small business owners look at the next fiscal year and work on their budget. Are you ready for the rest of 2012? What new technologies are you going to implement into your budget for the rest of 2012? What are your present goals? Have…</strong></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754509?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754509?profile=original" width="316"/></a></p>
<p align="center"><strong>Are You Ready for the rest of 2012</strong></p>
<p><strong>This is the time of year when entrepreneurs and small business owners look at the next fiscal year and work on their budget. Are you ready for the rest of 2012? What new technologies are you going to implement into your budget for the rest of 2012? What are your present goals? Have you looked at what was working and what isn’t working the last three months of 2012? Video marketing is one of the things that people know about but not sure if they need it want it or can afford it. Here are some tips on getting a great production company to do your video marketing projects. </strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Ask for a reel of their work and if they have a website to review past projects and client testimonials.</li>
<li>Ask what experience they have, how long they have been in business, what degrees if any, who are some of their past clients, some websites list that information some don’t so ask if you don’t see it.</li>
<li>Interview the company as if you are hiring an employee, if you feel that they are not answering the questions or they take issue with your questions then don’t hire them.</li>
<li>Find out where they get their talent, who is going to actually work on your project.</li>
<li>Production companies vary, some have editors and some don’t make sure you ask. If you choose someone to video tape, make sure that you choose a good company to edit. Ask the company how many projects the editor is currently working on so they don’t put your project on the bottom of the list especially if you have a deadline to meet.</li>
<li>Ask the company if they let the clients give editors notes. This is very important because you want to see a draft and make changes if you are not happy with the video. Also ask if they charge extra for the drafts.</li>
<li>Make sure the company put things in writing. I do contracts with every client that I work with. Why because every project is different and some clients ask for specific things. Putting it in writing lets the client know that we will accommodate their needs. </li>
<li>Be clear on the cost. Having this in writing can ensure the project cost, also if the production company charges for editors notes or other provisions you will know ahead of time. </li>
<li>Ask the company if they have other services that they provide i.e. video marketing, video consulting how they can build a video marketing campaign around that video you just paid for. Few production companies add the social media on-line presences piece to their services so ask. </li>
<li>Last but not least duplication is another service that you may want. You may want to do electronic press kit for your marketing packages, so ask if the company adds the video to the mini cd-roms and if so how many do they duplicate. You may want to add that to your complete production package. Be aware that the mini cd-roms only holds 4-6 minutes of video.</li>
</ol>
<p>Eula M. Young, COO & Co-founder of Griot’s Roll Film Production & Services Inc. is certified with the New York City Department of Small Business Services Inc. and the New York State Economic Development Corporation. <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.griotsrollproduction.com/">http://www.griotsrollproduction.com</a> (212) 281-2286</p>
Thank you world traveler
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-09-17:2176111:BlogPost:39482
2012-09-17T00:59:35.000Z
Phyllis R. Sapp
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhyllisRSapp
<p>Hi Chekesha Thank you for my birthday greeting.Nancy and I are having my birthday dinner. I am senting this out to the world traveler. The person with the world address. </p>
<p>Hi Chekesha Thank you for my birthday greeting.Nancy and I are having my birthday dinner. I am senting this out to the world traveler. The person with the world address. </p>
O Ambassadors is part of my Y-Glad Leadership Institute
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-08-16:2176111:BlogPost:39382
2012-08-16T07:09:32.000Z
Chekesha Showers
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhlylisShowers
<h3 id="pd1">Oprah's O Ambassadors - Quick Facts:</h3>
<div><p></p>
<ul>
<li>O Ambassadors is a project jointly created by Oprah's Angel Network and Free the Children.</li>
<li>This volunteer student program is designed to address the UN Millennium Development Goals of poverty, hunger, sustainable development and education.</li>
<li>The program was officially launched on <i>The Oprah Show</i> during <a href="http://oprah.about.com/od/oprahshowrecaps/p/oambassadors.htm">the May 26, 2008…</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3 id="pd1">Oprah's O Ambassadors - Quick Facts:</h3>
<div><p></p>
<ul>
<li>O Ambassadors is a project jointly created by Oprah's Angel Network and Free the Children.</li>
<li>This volunteer student program is designed to address the UN Millennium Development Goals of poverty, hunger, sustainable development and education.</li>
<li>The program was officially launched on <i>The Oprah Show</i> during <a href="http://oprah.about.com/od/oprahshowrecaps/p/oambassadors.htm">the May 26, 2008 episode</a>. The program chose the first 12 students to volunteer 3 weeks of their time and build a school in Kenya in 2007.</li>
<li>Students in the US and Canada join O Ambassadors Clubs to assist the regions of West Africa, East Africa, South Asia, East Asia and Latin America.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div><ul>
<li>Students are given the opportunity to not only learn about the global needs of others, but to have direct involvement in helping and making a change.</li>
<li>Educators can sign up and anyone can donate to the program on the <a href="http://oambassadors.org/global" target="_blank">O Ambassadors website</a>.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3 id="pd3">Free the Children:</h3>
<div><p>Free the Children was founded by Craig Kielburger, who first visited the Oprah show at 16 in 1999. It's Craig's belief that "you are never too young to change the world." The organization Free the Children has built more than 500 schools in a number of countries around the world, helping young people avoid a life of child labor through education. Started by Craig and the help of some of his school friends when he was just 12 years-old, Free the Children is now the largest organization of children whose mission is to help other kids around the world.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="pd4">Oprah's Angel Network:</h3>
<div><p>Oprah's Angel Network was inspired back in 1994 when a little girl sat on Oprah's stage and shared her story of collecting change to help others. The little girl was able to collect $1,000 - what could Oprah do with that same simple idea? In 1997 Oprah put the call out to her viewers to collect change, and more than 3 million dollars were donated. Since then, millions of dollars have been donated and used to build schools, buy books and school supplies, and contribute to independent foundations that are working to make a difference to those in need.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="pd5">Angel Network & Free the Children - O Ambassadors:</h3>
<div><p style="text-align: left;">By combining their efforts and forming O Ambassadors, the Angel Network and Free the Children have created a way</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #888888;"><strong> What is O Ambassadors?</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>For</strong> children across the US and Canada to help other children around the world.</p>
<p>With the help of educators, students are able to form clubs and get started right away. Most of the work of the organization is done through fundraising in the states. This money is used to help achieve the mission of addressing the UN's Millennium Development Goals by building schools, buying books and supplies, or building a well in a community.</p>
</div>
<div><p>Children of all ages are able to participate in the O Ambassadors program by volunteering their time to raise money with their club. An added benefit of being a part of the organization is having the opportunity to apply to be a part of a group of teens that is sent overseas. A select group of high school students is chosen to spend a few weeks in the summer in an area of need putting the money they have raised to work, along with a little physical labor as well. The teens get the chance to see up close how their efforts actually make a difference in the lives of others.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="pd7">How to Get Involved in O Ambassadors:</h3>
<div><p>To officially get involved in the O Ambassadors, a selected educator needs to <a href="http://oambassadors.org/enrollments/step/0" target="_blank">enroll in the program on the organization website</a>. Once enrolled and accepted, the school will receive documents outlining the lesson plans and fundraising goals and the assigned global area to work for.</p>
<p>If you are unable to apply to become an O Ambassadors Club, the website offers Action of the Week, which gives students and teachers an action to participate in and discuss together.</p>
<p>Another way to participate in the program is to donate.</p>
</div>
<h3 id="pd8">Donating to O Ambassadors:</h3>
<div><p>If you choose to help the program by donating, you will not be donating directly to O Ambassadors, but to either Oprah's Angel Network or Free the Children. Links are provided on all 3 websites for people to <a href="http://oambassadors.org/global/about-the-program/donate" target="_blank">easily donate online</a>.</p>
</div>
F.A.T. Girl Gets Even
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-08-16:2176111:BlogPost:24062
2012-08-16T06:57:03.000Z
Chekesha Showers
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhlylisShowers
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">F.A.T.(FINE And THICK)</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"> Girl Gets Even</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am releasing 50 pounds to improve my health.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am seeing my blood pressure lowering.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4"> …</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">F.A.T.(FINE And THICK)</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"> Girl Gets Even</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am releasing 50 pounds to improve my health.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am seeing my blood pressure lowering.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am eating every 3 hours- 6 smal</span><span class="font-size-4">l meals</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am chewing each bite 28 times.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I love my body right now just the way it is. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font"> <a target="_blank" href="http://http://youtu.be/XfFnQ6ZKZ2k">http://http://youtu.be/XfFnQ6ZKZ2k</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I love my rolls of fat.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I love my big but.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I love my big saging breast.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I love my huge thighs.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am beautiful.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am always beautiful, no matter what size I am.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">In Hawaii, Africa, Soma women my size are attractive.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">I am attractive.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4">In Mauritania near Mali woman who are size 16 plus are thougt as very desirable. Watch Oprah show on this country.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span class="font-size-4"><img src="http://www.africaguide.com/images/africa_map.gif" height="222" width="270"/></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">“A man’s goal is to marry a woman that fills his house. She needs to decorate it like an armoire or a TV set,” said Seif l’Islam, 48, curator of a library of ancient Islamic manuscripts, which include numerous love poems to plump women.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><a target="_blank" href="http://http://youtu.be/XfFnQ6ZKZ2k">http://http://youtu.be/XfFnQ6ZKZ2k</a></span></p>
Positioning Yourself for Financial Success. The Emerging Business Model For the 21st Century!
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-06-10:2176111:BlogPost:37400
2012-06-10T10:55:23.000Z
Kamal Imani
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/KamalImani
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754413?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754413?profile=original" width="329"></img></a> Where would you be right now if you had positioned yourself to be an investor in Mobile phone industry and corporations like IBM, Microsoft, Apple, Starbucks and Walmart? Where would you be if you were able to position yourself ahead of new technological trends?</p>
<p>The Majority of us have been taught to go to college, get a job and live the American dream. Well, with the…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754413?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754413?profile=original" width="329"/></a>Where would you be right now if you had positioned yourself to be an investor in Mobile phone industry and corporations like IBM, Microsoft, Apple, Starbucks and Walmart? Where would you be if you were able to position yourself ahead of new technological trends?</p>
<p>The Majority of us have been taught to go to college, get a job and live the American dream. Well, with the state of today's economy, we know that it's not that simple any more. There's no such thing as job security and the vast majority of people cannot afford to loose a job or else they will find themselves in very scarce situations.</p>
<p>See, we have been taught linear income which is trading our time for dollars. This of course is a very respectable way to earn income. The only problem is that when you stop working, your income stream also stops. With residual income, from work you've done one time, you can get paid continuously, even when you stop to take a break, you make money while you sleep. The best example of this is royalties that entertainers receive long after their song has been recorded or when their TV show has been syndicated.</p>
<p>Many leading business millionaires either endorse or have used multi-level marketing to acheive riches and residual income. I'm not going to name drop here, but do your research and you will bear me witness. Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) is the wave of the future for entrepreneurs and anyone who has the desire, professionalism and self leadership qualities to get out of their comfort zones and build within a new network. With MLM's you are your own boss and have the ability to build your own team. When your team generates income you also generate residuals.</p>
<p>Many who don't understand quickly and ignorantly say that this is "a pyramid scheme". My reply to that is that every business is set up with the founders who are naturally and logically on the top and the new recruits, who in a good company, have the ability to receive bonuses and promotions. Also, MLM's have products and services that they legally sell on the market while with an illegal pyramid, people are exchanging money without any inventory or products or services.</p>
<p>In the age of the internet, I think it would be wise for most people to start a home based business to generate an additional income stream. There is usually a start up cost ranging anywhere from $35.00 to $500.00 and sometimes more. The more expensive ones usually have a great support system and excellent training and have been around for a while. They even give bonuse's and provide incentives for you to receive you intitial investment back plus the ability to make a profit (Now that's a return on your investment). You should look at MLM companies as investing in a franchise.</p>
<p>The Benefits of Starting a Home Based Business VS a Brick and Mortar Business!</p>
<p>If you want to open a store, which is commendable, you would have far more start up cost and legal fees than you would with a home based business. Usually the sole proprietor or partners have to be everything in the beginning such as the cashier, stock people, inventory clerks, customer service reps, accountants etc... You would probably have to take out business loans which puts you in the red right away. If you can do all of this and do it well, that's a great thing. I would love to have that kind of success. I simply suggest that you also research some home based businesses or multi level marketing companies. Again, it's more like a franchise like McDonalds or Staples, meaning they handle the business infrastructure and distribution while you focus on building your business and customer base.</p>
<p>I'm very suprised when I attend business seminars and work shops and the majority of people are still looking for the old way of doing things except for seeking information on how to leverage people and technology to receive residual income. If you are coachable and can follow a proven and winning system, you have the opportunity to do extremely well with multi level marketing which is the business model of the 21st century!</p>
<p>Terrence Kamal Oats is a successful entrepreneur and telecommunications consultant based in Bergen County New Jersey.<br/>You can contact him via <a href="http://www.kamalinspires.com">http://www.kamalinspires.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5linx.net/abundantcircle" target="_blank">The Abundant Circle</a></p>
Affirmations For Living With Edwige
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2012-04-30:2176111:BlogPost:36843
2012-04-30T01:50:23.000Z
Claudy E. Chapman
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/ClaudyEChapman
<p>Guest James Gilmore -EVERY DAY LIFE AS A PATH TO AWAKENING!<br></br><br></br><br></br>Tue, May 1, 2012 01:00PM</p>
<p>Call in to speak with the host</p>
<p>(347) 857-4645</p>
<p><b>Affirmations For Living With Edwige</b></p>
<p><b>by <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/imasteryradio" target="_blank">IMASTERY Radio</a></b></p>
<p>in <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/life" target="_blank">Life</a></p>
<p>A Master's Class with Reverend Edwige Bingue each week to guide you across the bridge to change…</p>
<p>Guest James Gilmore -EVERY DAY LIFE AS A PATH TO AWAKENING!<br/><br/><br/>Tue, May 1, 2012 01:00PM</p>
<p>Call in to speak with the host</p>
<p>(347) 857-4645</p>
<p><b>Affirmations For Living With Edwige</b></p>
<p><b>by <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/imasteryradio" target="_blank">IMASTERY Radio</a></b></p>
<p>in <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/life" target="_blank">Life</a></p>
<p>A Master's Class with Reverend Edwige Bingue each week to guide you across the bridge to change and transformation. Tune in for a new lesson brimming with metaphysical and spiritual tools.</p>
<p>On May 1st we will have a special guest James Gilmore. James has been a student of Metaphysical Science for the last 30 years, and is a gifted intuitive. Join us as we explore our Everyday life as a Path to Awakening!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/imasteryradio/2012/05/01/affirmations-for-living-with-edwige#.T5rZuEJ8e-A.email" target="_blank">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/imasteryradio/2012/05/01/affirmations-for-living-with-edwige#.T5rZuEJ8e-A.email</a></p>
journey of a man
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-09-03:2176111:BlogPost:26382
2011-09-03T17:43:42.000Z
henry morales
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/henrymorales
a glimpse at some content of movie. YouTube video "Journey of a Man/shornslove1" let me know what u think !!
a glimpse at some content of movie. YouTube video "Journey of a Man/shornslove1" let me know what u think !!
My 2011 Summit
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-08-10:2176111:BlogPost:23590
2011-08-10T23:53:13.000Z
Jill van Leesten
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/JilllvanLeesten
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; color: #800080;"><strong>What is possible in life when I be with what is________? What is the gift?</strong></span> <br></br><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; color: #800080;"><strong>2011 International lack Summit Declaration/Question.</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><br></br><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #333300;">When the 2011…</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; color: #800080;"><strong>What is possible in life when I be with what is________? What is the gift?</strong></span> <br/><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif; color: #800080;"><strong>2011 International lack Summit Declaration/Question.</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><br/><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #333300;">When the 2011 question was first presented to me I immediately thought, ”Wow, my life situations, whether negative or positive…there will always be a gift at the end of each situation”. Well, who does not want a gift right? I love this question, why because at first it was in alignment with what my thought process of being positive in any situation is and has always been. Hummm, however the one thing about always being positive in any given situation, for me, is that sometimes that thought process did not allow me to truly “Be With What Is”. I had and have to learn how to SIT with Being With What Is and get uncomfortable with a feeling that I really did not want to feel in that particular moment. When I look at this I have to ask myself, "Jill are you being true to self when you are not allowing yourself to sit with it"? The answer is, “No, I am not and my goal is to be my authentic self in any given situation”. I have to be true to self so that I am true to the ones I love. I know, for me, I have to Be With What Is in order for true transformation to take place in me for my life. Being with what is was the question from last year’s summit and I continue to work with myself knowing that I need to work more and more and that it is a never ending process…working on self.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><br/><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #333300;">I was pleased that the 2011 question held some of the 2010 question because I still need to learn how to Be With What Is. Now with the 2011 question I have the gift of looking at the possibilities that can occur for myself once I allow myself to sit with any situation, knowing the gift may not turn out how I expected, but it in that moment it will be my perfect gift hence I will have to be with that :).</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #333300;"> </span><br/><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #333300;">This process, situation, relating to things, creating, eliminating, transforming is life to me in this moment. For so long, life was so cloudy until I learned about the summit, and the distinctions. Now, life is still doing its thing with me, and will always do its thing with me, however I love that I have a better understanding on how to deal with life on a daily basis because I am learning how to deal with me on a daily basis.</span> <br/></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span class="font-size-4" style="color: #333300;">The summit is so much a part of me that I cannot see myself NOT being in the summit conversation. I have never been in love like this before, so I thank you Summit Family for the love you have shown me and for the love I am giving to myself.</span></p>
Clarification
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-08-08:2176111:BlogPost:22721
2011-08-08T18:35:26.000Z
Chevalia Le Roy
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/ChevaliaLeRoy
<p>So let me re-phaze for a moment... when I stated in my last blog that I had a few demons in my past that came to surface, a few (namely the person I was referring to) thought that I was calling him a actual demon. This is Not the case! I was merely speaking figuratively... and was not calling him an actual Demon. But I pose this question now, what would you call a person that runs out on their child that was just born because his family doesn't approve of the way <em><strong>he…</strong></em></p>
<p>So let me re-phaze for a moment... when I stated in my last blog that I had a few demons in my past that came to surface, a few (namely the person I was referring to) thought that I was calling him a actual demon. This is Not the case! I was merely speaking figuratively... and was not calling him an actual Demon. But I pose this question now, what would you call a person that runs out on their child that was just born because his family doesn't approve of the way <em><strong>he choose</strong></em> to live <em><strong>his</strong></em> life. What do you call a person that runs to another state to flee the reponsibilty of his own flesh & blood..... I call this person any thing but a MAN. A real man does not question what he <em><strong>KNOWS</strong></em> to be fact no matter what his family argues.... A real man does not run but faces responsibility as an oppurtunity to better himself to be a better person than those who oppose him. I may be a woman, but i'm strong enough to raise my child, go to school myself while paying for private school for my daughter, maintaining my own home, my own car (basically handling ALL mine), a busy schedule @ a national level with a full time career, and still have time to maintain an healthy and active social life. Whatever ur position on this subject.... The moral to this story is that there is no excuse for abandoning ur child!!! No matter what ur momma or ur wife have to say.... No excuses!!!!</p>
Time & True Intentions
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-07-13:2176111:BlogPost:20423
2011-07-13T18:22:04.000Z
Chevalia Le Roy
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/ChevaliaLeRoy
<span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: andale mono,times;">it's been a while int'l black summit network... Over a year in fact, and what a year it has been. The last time I logged into this site I ran into some old demons which should have stayed under whatever rock he crawled out of, and I must admit that kept me away @ first. But TIME always reveals TRUTH & TRUE Intentions. In time GOD will begin to peel away the layers like onion and provide the who, what, when, where and why's…</span>
<span class="font-size-3" style="font-family: andale mono,times;">it's been a while int'l black summit network... Over a year in fact, and what a year it has been. The last time I logged into this site I ran into some old demons which should have stayed under whatever rock he crawled out of, and I must admit that kept me away @ first. But TIME always reveals TRUTH & TRUE Intentions. In time GOD will begin to peel away the layers like onion and provide the who, what, when, where and why's of it all. It just takes is Time & Faith. Real Talk. </span>
Belated Father's Day Greeting~
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-06-20:2176111:BlogPost:19682
2011-06-20T14:41:33.000Z
Dorothy "Mama Sunshine" Lyles
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/DorothyMamaSunshineLyles
<span> <br />
</span><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"><span>Gracious Salutations to All Fathers who are alive and present on the planet. Who have accepted the responsibility of Fatherhood may the fruit of your loins alwayz Love and respect you, and celebrate your Love and Life. To thoze Father's who<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span> <span class="text_exposed_show">have gone back into the undifferintiated Cosmos/Spirit, I salute you and pour Libation in honor... and memory of you.…</span></span></div>
<span> <br />
</span><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"><span>Gracious Salutations to All Fathers who are alive and present on the planet. Who have accepted the responsibility of Fatherhood may the fruit of your loins alwayz Love and respect you, and celebrate your Love and Life. To thoze Father's who<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span> <span class="text_exposed_show">have gone back into the undifferintiated Cosmos/Spirit, I salute you and pour Libation in honor... and memory of you. Dad for all you gave and shared of your Love and Life I thank you. For all the lessons and values bestowed on me, I thank you I loved you when you were here and I still Love you, the blueprint of your spirit resonates in my memory and your love resonates in my heart alwayz. I Love you Dad.........Happy Father's Day!!!!!!!!!!! where ever you soul is ~</span></span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed"><span class="text_exposed_show">{addendum}<br/>To all the Men who never sired a child, but Fathered anyway out of a nuturing, Loving spirit. I salute you also. To thoze who are sperm donors I pray that you will oneday realize and honor yourself and your seed. Peace, Love and Healing Hugz~</span></div>
Baltimore IBS Reunion
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-03-14:2176111:BlogPost:13291
2011-03-14T19:30:00.000Z
Salima Siler Marriott
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/SalimaSilerMarriott
<p>On Thu, Mar 3, 2011 at 7:18 PM, Lisa Rawlings wrote:</p>
<p>Baltimore International Black Summit Participants and Supporters,</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thinking back on the International Black Summit held in August 2010 on the Sojourner-Douglass College campus, I still get goose bumps. I get present to the sharing, the listening and the feeling in that space...and I miss it. I miss you. And, I'm not the only one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Cheryl Waters invites us to re-connect at the Baltimore IBS Reunion! …</p>
<p>On Thu, Mar 3, 2011 at 7:18 PM, Lisa Rawlings wrote:</p>
<p>Baltimore International Black Summit Participants and Supporters,</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thinking back on the International Black Summit held in August 2010 on the Sojourner-Douglass College campus, I still get goose bumps. I get present to the sharing, the listening and the feeling in that space...and I miss it. I miss you. And, I'm not the only one.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Cheryl Waters invites us to re-connect at the Baltimore IBS Reunion! Spread the word...bring a friend...what's the stank naked truth about where you are with your vision...share! Here are the details:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Sunday March 27th from 4-6pm</strong></p>
<p>Steel Drum Cafe</p>
<p>771 Washington Blvd. (near Martin Luther King Blvd)</p>
<p>Baltimore, MD 21230</p>
<p>Free but feel free to order from the menu if you'd like! </p>
<p>They serve delicious caribbean appetizers, sandwiches and entrees from $5-$25.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Let us know if you're coming by responding to this email or give Cheryl a call at 646-257-9778.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Peace,</p>
<p>Lisa</p>
Who's having a Virtual COMMUNITY Summit Share?
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-01-20:2176111:BlogPost:9552
2011-01-20T09:00:00.000Z
Llenar
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/Llenar
<p>For the past few months, I've been asking my friend James, former IBS Facilitator and former IBS Commando, to participate with the team for having 500 Butts In THEIR Seats at the 21st Annual International Black Summit, Aug 4-7, 2011 in Chicago.</p>
<p><br></br>The other night, as I listened him speaking about how he'd spent his day with his landlord and friend Derek, then continued his day by lunching with his friends John and David, I suddenly began to think of his other men friends, Freddie…</p>
<p>For the past few months, I've been asking my friend James, former IBS Facilitator and former IBS Commando, to participate with the team for having 500 Butts In THEIR Seats at the 21st Annual International Black Summit, Aug 4-7, 2011 in Chicago.</p>
<p><br/>The other night, as I listened him speaking about how he'd spent his day with his landlord and friend Derek, then continued his day by lunching with his friends John and David, I suddenly began to think of his other men friends, Freddie and Luther, and his comraderie with <strong>all</strong> the men in his life. That image evoked a warm feeling in me and I heard myself blurt out, <em><strong>"James, you can have your own Summit Share with Men!"</strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong> </strong></em> He immediately replied, <strong><em>"And I can do it over the phone!"</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em> "YES!"</em></strong>, I hollered!</p>
<p><br/>What I LOVE about using the phone (or SKYPE or TOKBOX) is that a physical location is no longer an issue, distance is no longer an issue, geography is no issue. The SHARE can be INTERNATIONAL and done from the comfort of your home! <strong>YEAH!!</strong> </p>
<p><br/>And, yes, we have had Telephone Summit Shares in the past, however, they haven't been focused on a particular COMMUNITY within the Black Community, i.e. men, women, young adults, etc.. AND we have had a couple of men in the Summit begin reaching out to other men in the Summit, i.e. John M., Claudy C. and lately Preston K. spoke that idea.</p>
<p><br/>As James and I continued to talk, he then began to speak the names of men, creating a list, of other Summit men and men in his life whom he could invite. He continued on by having a converation with Jonn T. to facilitate the virtual Share and partner with him in having the Share.</p>
<p><br/>From their conversation, a Facebook Fan Page was created - The Holy Trininty for Black Men which is about men Being Accountable, Taking Responsibility and Making a Difference in the World by embodying and living THE DECLARATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL BLACK SUMMIT! - and a date and time was specified: February 8th, 8pm EST. How about THAT?</p>
<p><br/>Over the next few days, since that conversation with James, COMMUNITY has taken on a different energy and life. I've begun to listen <strong><span style="color: #008000;">community</span></strong> differently. I've begun to hear <span style="color: #008000;"><strong>community</strong></span> as more expansive and yet inclusive at the same time. The <span style="color: #008000;"><strong>community</strong></span> which began as "Men in the Summit", has now become the <strong><span style="color: #008000;">community</span></strong> of :</p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">women</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">mothers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">fathers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">parents</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">grandparents</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">ministers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">GLBT</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">artists (singers/musicians)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">seniors</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">young adults</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">youth</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">elders</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">couples</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">singles</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">small business owners</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">entrepreneurs</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">educators (principals, teachers, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">techies</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">students</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">husbands</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">wives</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">politicians</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #993300;">elected officials</span></li>
</ul>
<p><br/>What has opened up is a new appreciation for the <strong>1st</strong> and <strong>Last</strong> lines of the <strong>Declaration</strong> concerning <span style="color: #008000;"><strong>community</strong></span>.</p>
<p><br/><strong>1st sentence:</strong> We declare ourselves, our <span style="color: #993300;"><strong>community</strong></span> (of <span style="color: #008000;"><strong><span style="color: #993300;">ministers, techies, artists, GLBT, mothers and fathers, seniors and elders</span>, etc</strong></span>.) and all communities whole and complete.</p>
<p><br/><strong>Last sentence:</strong> We declare that our <strong><span style="color: #008000;">c<span style="color: #993300;">ommunity</span></span></strong> (of <span style="color: #993300;">students and educators, small business owners and entrepreneurs, youth and young adults, etc.</span>) manifests itself in the world as a contribution in the transformation of the universe.</p>
<p><br/><span class="font-size-3">What is your vision for YOUR <span style="color: #993300;"><strong>community</strong></span>, of <span style="color: #993300;"><strong>parents and grandparents, husbands and wives, couples and singles, elected officials, managers, co-workers, etc.</strong></span>? </span></p>
<p><br/><span class="font-size-3">When are you gonna' have a Summit Share for YOUR <span style="color: #008000;"><strong>community</strong></span>?</span></p>
<p><br/><span class="font-size-3">How can I support you?</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Llenar</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>P.S.</strong> more <span style="color: #008000;">COMMUNITY</span> in the Declaration:</p>
<ul>
<li>We assert that we are responsible for generating <span style="color: #008000;">COMMUNITY</span> as possibility and distinction</li>
<li>. . . building economies responsible for funding our <span style="color: #008000;">COMMUNITY</span></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
Did You Know??? 2011 is the Year of People of African Descent!
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2011-01-17:2176111:BlogPost:9534
2011-01-17T00:30:00.000Z
Shakira Abdul-Ali
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/ShakiraAbdulAli
<p>Here is the announcement from the United Nations. SURELY we will have 500 butts in their seats in Chicago this summer!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-4">Resolution adopted by the General Assembly[on the report of the Third Committee (A/64/439/Add.2 (Part II))]</span><br></br><br></br><span class="font-size-4">1. Proclaims the year beginning on 1 January 2011 the International Year for People of African Descent, with a view to strengthening national actions and regional and international…</span></p>
<p>Here is the announcement from the United Nations. SURELY we will have 500 butts in their seats in Chicago this summer!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-4">Resolution adopted by the General Assembly[on the report of the Third Committee (A/64/439/Add.2 (Part II))]</span><br/><br/><span class="font-size-4">1. Proclaims the year beginning on 1 January 2011 the International Year for People of African Descent, with a view to strengthening national actions and regional and international cooperation for the benefit of people of African descent in relation to their full enjoyment of economic, cultural, social, civil and political rights, their participation and integration in all political, economic, social and cultural aspects of society, and the promotion of a greater knowledge of and respect for their diverse heritage and culture</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Read the entire resolution:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.un.org/french/documents/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/64/169&TYPE=&referer=http://www.un.org/fr/events/observances/humanrights&Lang=E" target="_blank">UN Declares 2011 the Year of People of African Descent!</a></p>
Keys to a Successful Relationship! Unconditional Love
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-12-17:2176111:BlogPost:9112
2010-12-17T21:04:06.000Z
Kamal Imani
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/KamalImani
<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754129?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754129?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a> What Love Has to Do With It!<br />
The Importance of Unconditional Love in A Relationship!<br />
By Kamal Imani © 2010<br />
<br />
My wife and I have been happily married for 15 years and together for 19. Much of our success can be attributed to a book we read entitled “Black Woman’s Black Man’s Guide to a Spiritual Union” by Ra Un Nefer Amen. In this book he speaks about the importance of…
<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754129?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754129?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a>What Love Has to Do With It!<br />
The Importance of Unconditional Love in A Relationship!<br />
By Kamal Imani © 2010<br />
<br />
My wife and I have been happily married for 15 years and together for 19. Much of our success can be attributed to a book we read entitled “Black Woman’s Black Man’s Guide to a Spiritual Union” by Ra Un Nefer Amen. In this book he speaks about the importance of unconditional love. He also highlighted how we have a script or sort of fantasy like picture in our minds of the perfect or ideal lover or mate and when that person doesn’t meet our expectations, we feel let down, disappointed, the drama begins and things begin to fall apart.<br />
When our partner fails to perform up to our Hollywood or conditioned standard financially, sexually, emotionally or otherwise, maybe they didn’t cook, clean, communicate or perform the way that we envisioned it, we allow dissatisfaction to set in.<br />
Have Realistic Expectations but High standards<br />
When getting to know your significant other, you need to be real when it comes to acknowledging his/her strengths and weaknesses. You also need to realize that peoples long developed habits are slow to change. If you’re hoping that something he/she does will change simply because you have entered their life, you may be disappointed. Some changes can be made if it’s clearly communicated, understood and your partner makes a conscious effort to change, but be very patient because it will probably be a slow and gradual process. I’m not saying that you should lower your standards, but have you ever heard the term wysiwyg? It is an acronym for what you see is what you get. And, you know while you’re dating you’re getting a persons best side, and as the saying goes “You don’t know a person until you live with them”. So keep it real, but stay optimistic, patient and keep the faith. Always keep a spiritual vibration in your relationship.<br />
Unconditional Love<br />
Unconditional love is giving of your self without expecting anything in return. It is being selfless! If you’re giving and taking is like a Wall Street financial transaction, sometimes you will rise, other times you will be in a recession, a depression and eventually a crash! So it is important for both partners to practice selfless giving with out making the other partner feel that he/she owes you something.<br />
When unexpected financial, medical and other emergencies arise, you will have to be flexible, calm and optimistic until the situation improves (because you will be tested). Always find a creative way to communicate, be understanding, stay affectionate, optimistic, patient and faithful…Did I say patient? Selfless giving/unconditional love is a high form of practical spirituality and it takes two to apply it. It indeed takes two to make a thing go right.<br />
<br />
Watch Kamal’s tribute to the sisters “Ms. Melanin” on Youtube <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aledyuIlCjs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aledyuIlCjs</a><br />
Kamal Imani is a Poet, Author, Film Maker Teacher and Mentor residing in New Jersey. He can be reached at <a href="http://www.kamalinspires.com">http://www.kamalinspires.com</a> To book Kamal for speaking engagements email Terrenceteaches@gmail.com or call 201-923-9213<br />
<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/jPczuNKN3Eo?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="false"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="never"></param><embed wmode="opaque" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/jPczuNKN3Eo?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="false" width="480" height="385"></embed> <param name="wmode" value="opaque"></param></object>
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPczuNKN3Eo">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPczuNKN3Eo</a>
500 BUTTS In The Seats in Chicago, August,2011-"The Missouri/Kansas Story" "
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-12-05:2176111:BlogPost:8673
2010-12-05T14:17:24.000Z
Chekesha Showers
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhlylisShowers
<p align="center"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oglesbycc.com"><font size="3">http://www.oglesbycc.com</font></a></strong></em></p>
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<p align="center"><strong><em><font size="3">Everybody Wants To Know about the</font></em></strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em><font size="3">INTERNATIONAL BLACK SUMMIT!…</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="center"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oglesbycc.com"><font size="3">http://www.oglesbycc.com</font></a></strong></em></p>
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<p align="center"><strong><em><font size="3">Everybody Wants To Know about the</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I am now residing in Lee Summit, Missouri with Catherine Thomas. Wentworth and Julien live in Missouri in the same city as Catherine. In fact ,Juliene lives across the street from Catherine. If you were thinking have the Summit ever been in this neck of the woods?, Yes we have to Kansas (20 minutes from Lee Summit.,Mo.). We had a plannning meeting in Kansas in 1997, the year we went to South Africa.</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">Not only did we have a meeting in Kansas (twenty minutes from Missouri) we sang in Kansas. Yes, that's right the "International Black Summit Choir" sang at Wentworth's Unity Church in Kansas( this was before Darlene Sanders took the Choir over). We were free in the "Spirit" that day. Catherine,Juliene and Wentworth had over ten people come to the Summit in South Africa from Kansas and Missouri.</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">Now, that I have created some context, I want to just request that people share with everyone about te IBS. Peole are waiting to hear about the Summit.</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">Let me give you two examples of what I mean. The first example ;is when was in a Bar-B-Que place last Sunday, looking for some finger-licking good food, When I asked a couple eating at the table tnearby, what was good to order and they suggested Rib Tips. I ordered and sat down with Catherine to wait for my order.</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I said to myself. "I should share abouit our Summit Share we are having Monday, Dec. 6th."</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I turned to the couple and shared and the Lady became quite excited. She said "she had recently moved to Missouri,and wanted to meet people and get involved. She said she was thinking about the joining the NAACP. She said she was interested in coming to the share on Dec 6th.</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">Next, while at Catherine 's house, I had been reading books from her Library. I was reading a new book Touch My Soul...I Are Fine by Shirley Olesby Smith Johnson. I was really enjoying her book .</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I loved her paragraph about WhoI I Am and Whose I Am.</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I mention to Catherine, how much I was enjoying the book and how I could hear the Summit from reading her book. Catherine, then informed me that the Author lived in Kansas/(20 minutes from Missouri.)</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="center"><strong><em><font size="3">Here it comes- I said to myself "I bet Shirely would love to hear about the Summit."</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I put down Shirley's book, googled her name on the computer and up popped her information with a direct phone number. I called the number. To make a long story short. I spoke with her, told her" how much I loved her book."</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">I then read her the last line of the International Black Summit's Declaration, she had me repeat it ,twi while she wrote it down. She said"she would love to come to our Summit Share" and She even looked at her 2011 calendar and said she" has the Summit dates of August 4-7,2011 open. "</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><strong><em><font size="3">(Please go back to top and click on Shirley Olesby Smith Johnson website and experience her new body of work on Hariet Tubman)</font></em></strong></p>
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<p align="center"><strong><em><font size="3"><u>Share the Summit People Are Waiting To Hear!</u></font></em></strong></p>
Give a Young Adult the book “You Got Next” this Holiday Season!
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-10-22:2176111:BlogPost:6665
2010-10-22T00:20:15.000Z
Kamal Imani
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/KamalImani
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754222?profile=original"></img></p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559759520?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="721"></img></p>
Give a young adult the book “You Got Next” this Holiday Season!<br></br>For teenagers and young adults coming up in today’s hip hop generation, You Got Next is a must read!<br></br>Author Kamal Imani is an urban youth educator and mentor with interpersonal relationships with hundreds of youth and a very high success rate when it comes to turning lifes around for the better.<br></br>His new book “You Got Next” deals with…
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559754222?profile=original"/></p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img width="721" alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1559759520?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024"/></p>
Give a young adult the book “You Got Next” this Holiday Season!<br/>For teenagers and young adults coming up in today’s hip hop generation, You Got Next is a must read!<br/>Author Kamal Imani is an urban youth educator and mentor with interpersonal relationships with hundreds of youth and a very high success rate when it comes to turning lifes around for the better.<br/>His new book “You Got Next” deals with the teen related subjects of parental relationships, self esteem,drugs, sex, peer pressure, goals and dreams, faith, surviving the streets and more. Kamal even addresses the subjects of the B Word, The N Word, Sagging Pants and Snitching. When it comes to surviving the potholes and obstacles of the streets and growing up as an African American teenager, Kamal Imani knows what’s up and brings it to you with real talk!<br/>Kamal encourages goal setting, creative visualization, self leadership, self esteem and a strong focus on education.<br/>Kamal has attended Morehouse University and is a graduate of Bergen Community College, New York Institute of Technology, Kovats Real Estate School, Computer Career Training Center and works as a professional teacher of urban youth with special needs. <br/><br/>Kamal also enjoys music production, spoken word poetry and is a hip hop lyricist which gives him an instant rapport with today’s youth. Born in Harlem and being raised there and in the Bronx New York before moving to suburban Teaneck, Englewood and Hackensack New Jersey (Bergen County), Kamal is familiar with the streets and the suites.<br/><br/>While living in the Bronx New York at the age of 7 with his single mother as a parent, who worked 60 hours a week for MA Bell (now AT&T) Kamal was recruited by a Bronx gang called the Black Spades. Fortunately this is when his Grandmother living in Englewood NJ made moves to move him and the family out to Teaneck NJ. While in Teaneck he still managed to find the streets and the streets managed to find him. Most of the things that teens deal with today, Kamal dealt with then. <br/><br/>Kamal loves his people and he loves and understands our youth! As he was deeply influenced by reading the autobiography of Malcolm X, he hopes that his small but power packed book will help to change the thinking of today’s youth who are fortunate enough to get it in their hands.<br/><br/>This is the perfect book to get the conversation started or to get you reflecting on your own life because You Got Next! <br/>You Got Next also contains some of Kamal Imani’s poetic works.<br/><a href="http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1460505">http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1460505</a> <br/><a href="http://www.kamalinspires.com">http://www.kamalinspires.com</a> <br/><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mlj3Nvu8UCw">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mlj3Nvu8UCw</a> <br/> <object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Mlj3Nvu8UCw?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="false"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="never"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Mlj3Nvu8UCw?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="false" width="480" height="385"></embed> </object>
LAUGH YOURSELF HEALTHY
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-09-13:2176111:BlogPost:5552
2010-09-13T06:28:34.000Z
Chekesha Showers
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/PhlylisShowers
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<p align="center"><strong><font size="4">LAUGHTER IS FOR MORE THAN JOKES</font></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><font size="4">9/13/2010</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font size="4"><strong>From fellow C.</strong>ertified <strong>L.augh L.eader</strong></font></p>
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<p align="left"><font size="4">I have been leading laughter sessions with a brain injury rehabilitation group for the last year. It has been an…</font></p>
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<p align="center"><strong><font size="4">LAUGHTER IS FOR MORE THAN JOKES</font></strong></p>
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<p align="left"><font size="4">9/13/2010</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font size="4"><strong>From fellow C.</strong>ertified <strong>L.augh L.eader</strong></font></p>
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<p align="left"><font size="4">I have been leading laughter sessions with a brain injury rehabilitation group for the last year. It has been an incredible experience. I have found that due to different degrees of brain injury, there is a realm of difference between each member's level of functioning and memory. Energy levels vary from session to session and the participants are sometimes challenging to keep engaged depending on this. I find that if I keep up the momentum that the group tends to do better than if there are any lulls in activity.</font></p>
<div><font size="4"><font face="Arial" size="2"><strong>My last few sessions have been very rewarding. One fellow, Colin, who has to be reminded every fifteen minutes that he does not smoke, introduces himself to me every twenty minutes or so, yet calls one of the agency volunteers by my name. Somewhere in his memory, he has learned my name but struggles with associating my name with my face. One of the young ladies, Beth, signs and rarely speaks any words. However, in more recent laughter sessions, she can sometimes be heard saying, "Ha, ha" as she smiles. She signs along with the rest of the group as we clap and chant, "Ho, ho, ha, ha, ha." A year ago, she didn't make much of an effort to participate. Now when she sees me, she blows me a kiss, which is what she does to the people who are important to her. Very cool. Another participant, Laura, who has difficulty talking due to past surgery, is able to share some of the things that she enjoys doing. Last week when I asked if anyone remembered airplane safety laughter, Laura started going through the motions of the exercise! Staff and volunteers were astounded that she remembered the exercise. (This agency is now providing a host-site for us to train more laughter leaders.)</strong></font></font></div>
<div><font size="4"><font face="Arial" size="2"><strong>The staff, volunteers and rehab participants all very much enjoy the discussions we have about Good-Hearted Living. I encourage them to make some type of goal in regard to a daily practice. Last session, Jessie, who rarely smiles but often compliments, vowed to try to smile when he says hello to someone. It is such a wonderful experience to work with this group of people.</strong></font></font></div>
<div><font size="4"><font face="Arial" size="2"><br/><strong>Still laffing out loud, <br/> <br/>Helen L. Bzdel BA BSW RSW (SK) CLL CLYL CTRTC</strong></font></font></div>
<div><font size="4"><font face="Arial" size="2"><strong>World Laughter Tour Trainer<br/>Certified Laughter Leader & Certified Laughter Yoga Leader <br/>Registered Social Worker <br/>Approved Mental Health Therapist with First Nations & Inuit Health <br/>Choice Theory/Reality Therapy Certified <br/>Clinical Consultant for Saskatoon Search & Rescue</strong></font></font></div>
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Denice's Daily Dish!
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-09-06:2176111:BlogPost:5433
2010-09-06T01:23:38.000Z
S. Denice Newton
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/SDeniceNewton
I don’t know about you, but I am personally fed up with non-stop, irrelevant news about Sarah Palin and her family. The ex-governor-turned-publicity hound-turned-de facto leader of the Conservative movement and Tea Party is bleeding followers dry by demanding outrageous six-figure speaking fees. If it weren’t so sad and serious, it would be downright hilarious.<br />
<br />
First of all, she is ineffective in just about everything she does. Her only success as I see it, is being able to recite regurgitated…
I don’t know about you, but I am personally fed up with non-stop, irrelevant news about Sarah Palin and her family. The ex-governor-turned-publicity hound-turned-de facto leader of the Conservative movement and Tea Party is bleeding followers dry by demanding outrageous six-figure speaking fees. If it weren’t so sad and serious, it would be downright hilarious.<br />
<br />
First of all, she is ineffective in just about everything she does. Her only success as I see it, is being able to recite regurgitated Conservative talking points, come up with silly, childish catch phrases, and smile at adoring “fans” who are for the most part, grossly uninformed about relevant political issues. They see her as “one of us, a breath of fresh air”, so different from the educated, experienced, and elite members of government and our political system.<br />
<br />
But what they obviously don’t stop and consider, is the shallowness of her own knowledge. She talks an awful lot about things she knows little about. It really makes me squirm to see this pseudo-intellectual go into full “parrot-mode” when she stands before crowds and throw out red meat labeled, “taking our country back,” common sense conservatism, the constitution, mama grizzlies, mavericks, lamestream media,” and other phrases in which she doesn’t bother to detail or give substance to. The parrot keeps uttering useless phrases and is subsequently rewarded with hundreds of thousands of dollars, legions of adoring followers, and empowerment to enter the 2012 presidential race.<br />
<br />
Palin didn’t complete her term as governor of Alaska. Let her tell it, she did it for the good of the people. She didn’t want them to have to continue dealing with the “baseless” ethics charges that were constantly being thrown at her. Oh, how noble Sarah. Alaska should be proud. NOT! Sarah Palin quit caring about the interests of Alaskans the minute she saw the golden opportunity to profit from the uninformed in the lower 48.<br />
<br />
It’s time for her to fade from the news headlines. I’m tired of hearing about Bristol and Levi’s issues. I’m tired of hearing about the reality shows that this brood is planning to star in. These dysfunctional people are making the “dumbing down” of<br />
America a frightening reality. Only in America can an uneducated, unmarried teen father become an icon and someone to idolize. Only in America can an uneducated, teen mother be both for and against abstinence,with no expertise either way but yet serves as a spokesperson and is constantly on the covers of magazines.<br />
<br />
In a recent address at the National Urban League’s Centennial Conference in Washington, DC, President Obama stated that “in just one generation, the United States has fallen from being number one in college completion to number twelve.” I pray that this isn’t a trend that will continue because if so, you can believe that there will be more Sarah Palins not only vying for the oval office, but possibly winning by landslides. Scary thought indeed.
Beyond The Noise Lies The Faint Heartbeat Of A Dying America
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-09-06:2176111:BlogPost:5431
2010-09-06T01:22:41.000Z
S. Denice Newton
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/SDeniceNewton
In 2008 most of America and parts of the world was introduced to a rising political star in the Democratic party. He was young, fresh-faced, articulate, and ready to remake the image of this nation. He was an educated man, a family man, and a respected man. When he spoke, people listened. His words comforted, reassured, and inspired a nation to embrace “change” and reject “business-as-usual” when it came to politics. With many strikes against him (inexperience, questionable affiliations, and…
In 2008 most of America and parts of the world was introduced to a rising political star in the Democratic party. He was young, fresh-faced, articulate, and ready to remake the image of this nation. He was an educated man, a family man, and a respected man. When he spoke, people listened. His words comforted, reassured, and inspired a nation to embrace “change” and reject “business-as-usual” when it came to politics. With many strikes against him (inexperience, questionable affiliations, and skin color), he answered the clarion call to enter the presidential race. His decision was humorous for some, downplayed by others, and supported by many. Some felt that he didn’t have a snowball’s chance in satan’s abode of even being taken seriously, let alone winning. He would first have to get past the democratic frontrunner in the primaries–one Hillary Rodham Clinton. “That will never happen,” many thought. The Clinton’s are powerful and well-liked. Mrs. Clinton could very well be the first female President of the United States.” Others thought, “here we go again. Another African-American trying to be seriously considered. Okay, we have to be fair. We’ll let the little black guy play the game but we sure as heck ain’t gonna let him win! At least it can’t be said that he wasn’t given a chance.” And so, it was on!<br />
<br />
Barack H. Obama burst onto the scene with a smile as big as the Windy City and an intellect second to none. His “Change” mantra ignited fires of hope around the country. His tenacity drew a second look from his critics. His compassion for the poor and working class became a salve–soothing wounds of hopelessness and despair. The bi-racial political lightweight was making gains on the aforementioned Mrs. Clinton. America began to sit up and take notice. “Okay, calm down guys. He’s not going to win. It’s just media spin that we’re experiencing. It’s too many of us and not enough of them for him to win the democratic nomination. Let’s just go along. Everything is fine.” The very negative tone of Mrs. Clinton’s campaign combined with the spawning of racist rhetoric and “out-of-the-closet” bigotry by citizens and elected officials alike, dropped a nuclear bomb of reality on a nation mentally unprepared to be led by a man of color.<br />
<br />
Each caucus win watered the seeds of change. Each delegate win produced a harvest of hope. The opposition tried in vain to derail the Obama momentum train. From Bill Ayers to Jeremiah Wright, from Tony Rezko to ACORN, nothing was “off the table” when it came to trying to rid the country of this very viable contender. However, Obama kept his focus. He took the punches, nursed the bruises, iced the black eyes, and wiped the bloody nose. He stood tall and firm, refusing to be intimidated or scared away from his purpose. That perseverance handed him the gift of the Democratic nomination. Red states of the south couldn’t stop him. Conservative strongholds in the west couldn’t pin him to the mat. Bigots of Appalachia couldn’t impact the outcome. When Mrs. Clinton finally unwillingly “conceded,” shock, horror, and amazement gripped the nation. He did it. The black guy won the Democratic nomination. This cannot be happening! And so, the fringe, the extreme, and the mentally impaired of America embarked upon a campaign to stunt Obama’s growth. They were determined to keep him from winning the presidency. Senator John McCain became the only hope after winning the Republican nomination for President.<br />
<br />
Hope became resurrected and empowered for minorities, the downtrodden, and the less fortunate. Finally. Is the United States finally willing to extend the olive branch of equality to her citizens of color? It didn’t take long for that question to be answered in the negative. Barack Obama selected the very capable Joseph Biden to be his running mate. The two made a great couple. Great smiles, pleasant dispositions, politically aware, and for the most part, well-respected. They began to make an impact. Thousands upon thousands showed up for their rallies. The elderly statesman from Arizona, John McCain, attempted to capitalize on the disgruntled, disappointed Hillary Clinton supporters (female voters) by “vetting” or not, the unknown “maverick” from Alaska, Governor Sarah Palin, to be his potential running mate. Polls and surveys clearly showed that white women in America were bitterly against Barack Obama and willing to support the McCain campaign as a show of their displeasure.<br />
<br />
The campaign took many twists and turns. Mud-slinging and finger-pointing was a daily ritual. The national conventions proved once and for all that America was still a very racist, divided nation. The Democratic convention however, was much more inclusive. It was attended by blacks, whites, Hispanics, Asians, gays, straights, educated, middle class, wealthy, young, old, the known and the unknown. By contrast, the Republican convention was basically attended by middle-aged and older white Americans. It opened my eyes to the sad fact that politics is an ugly sport–harsh, brutal, and without repentance.<br />
<br />
After the convention speeches were made and celebratory confetti had fallen, the “real America” came forth like a savage beast–a deadly roaring lion protecting its territory. The Democratic rallies unified the people. The Republican rallies incited the people. Hate speeches, death threats and racist reactions came to define the McCain/Palin gatherings. Yet, it didn’t matter. America had to remain under the leadership of Caucasians. It would be an insult and blow to the founding fathers if an African-American was given the reins to the most powerful country on earth.<br />
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Issues regarding the economy, health care, education, global warming, immigration and more was satisfactorily answered by the Democrats. At least to a degree. The Republicans vehemently opposed but offered no solutions. Debates became forums of contention and strife. The mainstream media died a slow, agonizing death when it tossed integrity into the abyss and adorned itself with sensationalism and tabloid-like opining. Civility, sanity, and morality was brutally assassinated by the fringe elements of a party that refused to descend the pedestal of racial superiority. Barack Obama and his forces of change marched on in spite of the deafening noise of racism disguised as ideology and policy differences.<br />
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On election night 2008, Americans in favor of equality, justice, and hope for a new and improved America turned red states blue and lay claim to the electoral college with power. Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. The first commander-in-chief of color. The first black to hold the highest office in the land. The most powerful leader of the free world. Since that joyous night, the noise from the fringe elements of the far right has been turned up a decibel, drowning out all calls for civility, patience, and partisanship. Since taking office, President Obama has faced an onslaught of criticism–justified and unjustified. However, the deafening noise from his opposers does little to reassure and calm the fears of American citizens. Somewhere, beyond the noise and the muck and mire of political maneuverings, lies the faintly beating heart of an America awaiting CPR from the citizens who claim to love her.
Day of the Dead Living: Defining The New America
tag:blacksummit.ning.com,2010-09-06:2176111:BlogPost:5429
2010-09-06T01:21:21.000Z
S. Denice Newton
http://blacksummit.ning.com/profile/SDeniceNewton
Oh Brute-i-ful, where hatred lies<br />
<br />
and clamor meets inane<br />
<br />
on darkened hills of tragedy<br />
<br />
our morals have been lain<br />
<br />
America! America!<br />
<br />
God’s grievance is with thee<br />
<br />
you’ve drowned your good, shunned brotherhood<br />
<br />
thinking, “GOD IS PLEASED WITH ME!”<br />
<br />
“America the Brute-i-ful”, as recorded by S. Denice Newton<br />
<br />
Some days I just can’t stomach the news cycle. On other days, I just can’t tolerate it. On most days, I absolutely abhor it. However, as a writer and radio host, it is my job to stay abreast…
Oh Brute-i-ful, where hatred lies<br />
<br />
and clamor meets inane<br />
<br />
on darkened hills of tragedy<br />
<br />
our morals have been lain<br />
<br />
America! America!<br />
<br />
God’s grievance is with thee<br />
<br />
you’ve drowned your good, shunned brotherhood<br />
<br />
thinking, “GOD IS PLEASED WITH ME!”<br />
<br />
“America the Brute-i-ful”, as recorded by S. Denice Newton<br />
<br />
Some days I just can’t stomach the news cycle. On other days, I just can’t tolerate it. On most days, I absolutely abhor it. However, as a writer and radio host, it is my job to stay abreast of the headlines and information that impact the lives of earthlings, no matter how nutty the content. And that my friends, will be the focus of this posting.<br />
<br />
As an innocent bystander, I cower at the window of “neutrality” and look out at the derangement, lunacy, and mental illness that is gripping America. The images before me are horrendous. Watching people slowly go mad, is not a pretty sight. It is comparable to watching a dog chase its own tail. It will only grow tired and fatigued, accomplishing nothing. However, if it does manage to “catch its tail,” it will only inflict pain on itself as it begins to eat its own flesh.<br />
<br />
America is a nation that prides itself on freedom, liberty, equality and peace. It claims to operate on civility, patriotism, and regard for the law. But as I continue to witness the heart-wrenching scene from the security of my self-imposed prison, I see a scene comparable to the 1968 zombie film, “Night of the Living Dead.” In this particular movie, a horde of ghouls converged upon a farmhouse in Pennsylvania. The recently deceased corpses returned to life and began consuming the flesh of living victims. Historians viewed the movie as a subversive film that critiques 1960s American society, international cold war politics, and domestic racism. The only black character, played by Duane Jones, was a heroic figure that survived the zombies, but was ultimately killed by a redneck posse. I’m really going somewhere with this. Bear with me.<br />
<br />
Themes of the movie included disillusionment with government and flaws inherent in the media and local and federal government agencies. Director George Romero confessed that the film was designed to reflect the tensions of the time. He says everyone had a message, complete with anger and attitude. Now, fast forward 42 years. The year is now 2010.<br />
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The slow moving, hollow, resurrected cannibals of the 1968 film are now hate-mongering, divisive, partisan rabble-rousers whose agenda is to oppose government and rally supporters. With complete disregard for civility or the law for that matter, these modern day zombies converge upon the airwaves, print publications, and other forms of media to convey messages of intolerance and distort truth through partisan noise. Can you see where this is going?<br />
<br />
From my window, I see black people, white people, Asians, and other brown people. I see Republicans, Democrats, Independents, Liberals, and Conservatives. They’re all yelling and accusing each other of destroying the economy, trampling the constitution, and destroying freedoms. I see old people, young people, and those in the middle. I see wealthy people, poor people, and those without a socio-economic ranking. They’re verbally and physically abusive to each other. They’re screaming about the lack of jobs, state of the economy, state of health care, and support for and against warfare. No one can hear the call for civility because the noise from all sides is just too deafening. Making sense yet?<br />
<br />
There is a striking similarity between President Barack Obama and the character of Ben in “Night of the Living Dead.” According to one movie reviewer, Ben was depicted as a comparatively calm and resourceful Negro. As you can probably imagine, the selection of a black man for a heroic role when the cast was largely comprised of white actors and actresses bred contempt and controversy. While social commentators viewed the move as “significant,” Romero says that Jones was selected because he simply gave the best audition. Sound familiar? Think presidential race 2008. Ben survived zombie attacks, but eventually fell victim to a posse of rednecks. Barack Obama survived religious controversy, questionable affiliations, and birth certificate issues but will likely fall victim to conservative ideology and racial intolerance in the next election cycle.<br />
<br />
I can’t stand at this window and watch chaos forever. At some point, I will have to venture out into the midst of it. But which side do I lend my support? Is it to those staunch “Christians” who say that government interference is unconstitutional and should therefore let citizens suffer and die from lack even though the bible teaches that the “strong are to bear the infirmities of the weak?” Or do I support the side that says, “we’ll help you through difficult times but the bill will be enormous and future generations will have to foot it?” The battle is becoming intense and bodies are falling to the ground. American politics is a blood sport and those who play mean business. Welcome to “Day Of The Dead Living.” America as we know it is no more and for her citizens, political defeat is a fate worse than death.