It Feels Like 90° °F

"Turn off the lights, and just peak out the corner of the window - don't open the curtains!" Those were wise words coming from my Grand Mother - I called her "Sweetie".
You see, my brother and I were in the habit of trying to look out the window and see why our neighbors were arguing - again.
In our household, there weren't very many arguments(that we children ever heard) and as a result, when we heard our neighbors arguing, we wanted to listen. Just being nosy. It was fun! My Grand Mother was an expert snooper. She knew exactly how to look and listen without being noticed by those who where involved in the heat of the night. Yes, the night. It seemed as though this particular husband and wife would always seem to find a reason to fight when it was really hot out side - usually 90°F, or hotter.
It seems as though they couldn't wait for the sun to set before embarking on a heated debate. The topics? Usually sports or politics...

My Sweetie passed on over 25 years ago. But, I remember
her advice. To this very day, if I hear someone arguing, I know to turn off the lights and peak through the sides of the curtains (blinds). Just the way that she use to.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.- From The Mountain Top

There's so much irony w/regards to American and British history.

On April 3, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., gave his last heart wrenching speech,

" I Have Been To The Mountain Top".

On April 4, 1968, a sniper took his life, in Memphis, Tennessee.

Just thinking about how and why he was murdered still brings tears to my eyes.

If only Dr. King Jr. could see that he paid the price for Global change. If only he could see how far we have grown as a Nation in 41 years.

Dr. King Jr., if only you could see the first Black President - President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama break down barriers; yesterday they traveled across the ocean to the U.K., for the G20 Conference. During the G20 Reception at Buckingham Palace, Queen Elizabeth II, of England, broke protocol to embrace the First Lady.

This is a first in British and American history.

It was truly symbolic of change.

Dr. King Jr.,The Obamas' would make you proud. They are intelligent, capable, fearful of God - and they love each other. President Obama and his wife are what you hoped and prayed for. They are what we need Globally today to help move this beautiful country forward. Why? Because they represent red, yellow. black, white and brown. They represent America.

Dr. John Hope Franklin Laid Down With Our Ancestors

Dr. John Hope Franklin died March 24, 2009 after suffering congestive heart failure. He was 94 years old.

Most remember him as a legendary educator and was considered one of the most prolific scholars of his generation. Dr. Franklin was known for documenting the trials and tribulations that affected many African-Americans. He is most notably remembered for writing From Slavery to Freedom: A History of American Negroes, published in 1947. The book sold over 3 million copies.

His life was a true testimony of faith, hard work, and the power of completion. Back in 1921, his father's office was burned down during the race riots in Tulsa, Oklahoma and he and his family lost everything.

That did not discourage him because he knew that he had a purpose. Dr. Franklin was driven to succeed.

There were many positive role models in his life, namely his father. At one time, Dr. Franklin was going to study Law, but fate stepped in and one of his mentors suggested he study History. As a result, Dr. Franklin took the path less tredded, and as an African American, he had published over 16 books and hundreds of academic papers.

He knew that he had a purpose, and was driven.

In 1954, Dr. Franklin helped research information that led to Justice Thurgood Marshall's land mark argument before the Supreme Court, which lead to overturning segregation in the public school system.

How fortunate we all are to live in a time where we as Americans can actually see how far we have come as a Nation - as a people.

Thank you for your brilliance, Dr. Franklin. We will miss you.

Michael Jackson's Press Concert in London

Stop hating. Michael Jackson sold out 50 concerts in London, UK - where the good ole' British Sterling/Pound is valued.

Why, you might ask.

If one has ever had the fortune of seeing Michael Jackson perform live, one would know that he gives you your monies worth – and them some.

I clearly remember seeing the TRIUMPH concert, 4th row, center seat. All of the Jackson brothers performed. It was soooo live! People were fainting because they could not believe that they were actually watching such an outstanding performance!
The Jackson’s gave every concert attendee a performance that they would never ever forget, believe that.

You see, it’s like a science or a mathematical equation;
M/J(ABC/Ben/Rock With You/Thriller/Billie Jean)+Rhythm(Soul/Rock) =
An American Icon.

It appears as though the American soil that he was born on and the people, who used to love him, have turned their backs on him. Great Britain seems to be able to distinguish between his personal life and his God given talent. He is an American that represents true talent. I’m not going to “toss the first stone” at him, I’m just going to the U.K. and enjoy watching him do his thing.

Michael Jackson
still
ROCKS!!!!

Sometimes Words are Hard to Say

I'm discovering that as I get older, I have to use the word NO more frequently. Have you discovered that? Is it an age thing, or is it simply a phase that I'm going through - I haven't decided yet.

Well, today is a new day, and moving forward, if there is something that you simply do not want to do, just say NO. And mean it!...

Our Authors Study Club Black History Tour 2009

It was pouring down raining this morning when Shirley Smith and I got up and got ready for the Annual Black Historical Tour of Los Angeles.
We had to be at Consolidated Realty at 7:30am, to get aboard Dr. Genevieve Shepherd's bus! If one can get the opportunity to take the tour - which occurs every year on the first Saturday in February - count yourself very fortunate! http://www.lausd.k12.ca.us/Tom_Bradley_EL/DrShepbio.html
Today we saw several groups perform - the youth of today sang so eloquently. Professor Toni had several people recite different quotes from historical figures(Biddy Mason, Princess Calafia, etc.) and it was lovely!
There were a few bumps in the road today, but we overcame them and won't even mention them...
We also took a trip to the second oldest Fire Station -
Fire Engine Co. # 30, located at 14th and Central. It is now a Fire Station Museum.


Captain Brent Burton gave an eloquent lecture w/ slides dating back to the 1850's regarding Men & Women of Color Fire Fighters. http://www.lacostentorians.org/.
You owe it to yourselves to stop by the Fire Station. It's open to the public!


Dr. Shepherd, I'd like to thank you, once again, for all of the love that you continue to shower upon your people. You are truly a remarkable woman, and I say hats off to you lady!

Sincerely,
Carla

LA Black Historical Tour 2009 - This Saturday

It's already February and it is absolutely beautiful here in Southern California. Today it was 75 (Fahrenheit).
This is the weekend that Dr. Shepard conducts her Annual Black History Tour.
Dr. Shepard is kind enough to reach out to the Community and take 6 bus loads of people from all walks of life - starting from 3725 Don Felipe Dr., Los Angeles, CA - Consolidated Realty - to some of the most interesting places throughout Southern California. If you get a chance, get up early, Google the location and meet me there!http://beverlyhillsbusinessexcellence.blogspot.com/2008/02/black-history-tour-of-los-angeles-feb-2.html

Peace & Blessings,
C