tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13367113069233262702024-03-13T09:16:45.852-07:00blog nubiaa goddess cultureahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-24363331056868156302019-07-31T05:44:00.001-07:002019-07-31T05:44:47.244-07:00KATHLEEN KANE THE FIRE STARTER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-59662287406280435142019-07-30T18:55:00.000-07:002019-07-30T19:00:59.276-07:00ZERO TOLERANCE<br />
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FROM ROCHELLE BILAL SHERIFF ELECT FOR THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA<br />
Karimu Hamilton<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpsa_0x7CZk/XUDyNhLqhCI/AAAAAAAAEPk/ofrehp5k0zIw4L37Vnale_9m4istmRelwCLcBGAs/s1600/bilal19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpsa_0x7CZk/XUDyNhLqhCI/AAAAAAAAEPk/ofrehp5k0zIw4L37Vnale_9m4istmRelwCLcBGAs/s400/bilal19.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rochelle Bilal -Sheriff Elect</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Rochelle Bilal is a native
North Philadelphian who has ascended from local police officer, President of
the Guardian Civic League, Vice Chair of National Black Police Association,
Secretary for Philadelphia Chapter of NAACP, landslide Electee, gracefully
poised to become the first woman Sheriff for The City of Philadelphia. The Sheriff,
unlike a police officer is an elected official and the highest law enforcement
officer with in a county. The Sheriff has a very broad range of powers. The
Sheriff has full jurisdiction on crime prevention in all of its elements with-
in the presiding county. “I had <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">one </i></b>teacher in elementary school
that took me under her wing and ensured that I graduated.” Bilal reminisces.
“”I knew that I was being supported and my life took off after that.” Bilal
actually began her career working at the post office. She was unhappy there and
felt that the work was mundane. She was approached by the Guardian Civil League
a very powerful civil rights organization that represents Philadelphia Police
Officers of color. At the time the organization was working a project to
recruit more melanated police officers as well as desegregate the Philadelphia
Police Department. It was <span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">a</span> </span>win, win situation
for Bilal because the salary was higher, they offered her early retirement and
the job offer <span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">would help</span> </span>to relieve her urge to
fight against the system from within.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 200%;">The
Domelights Factor; </span></b><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Officers within the force were circulating
misogynistic, racist, memorandums throughout The City of Philadelphia internet
infrastructure. “I instructed my colleagues to monitor the data and collect.”
Bilal explained. After a period of time The Guardian Civic League secured
counsel with Brian Mildenberg one of the top anti-discrimination attorney’s in
the State of Pennsylvania. The case outcomes resulted in shutting down the Domelights
web site, officers were disciplined accordingly and most importantly internet
policy was established for the first time with-in the Philadelphia Police
Department. “The federal lawsuits are a very critical component to fighting
discrimination within any system.” Bilal reflects. ”It sets a legal precedence
that gives future plaintiffs a reference point to lean on if and when a similar
circumstance arises. “Bilal stresses. When advising newly minted police
officers from the academy on how to deal with discrimination of any kind Bilal
states; “You must be <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">transparent</i></b> regarding your position
on race and gender early on.” Taking a position and speaking up helps to slow down
discriminatory actions with -in the department is Bilal’s methodology. “ I have
interrupted many unlawful searches via racial profiling in my day they called
me Angela Davis out in the field all the time.” Bilal chuckles.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 200%;">Colwyn
Gate;</span></b><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 200%;"> Colwyn </span><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">is a Borough in Delaware
County, Pennsylvania. Because of Bilal expertise in policy, community relations
and administration within the Philadelphia Police Department, The Borough of
Colwyn subcontracted her to work on developing the infrastructure of their
police department. “We were able to implement directives and guidelines as well
as strengthen the relationship between the CPD and the neighborhoods they
policed. However; there was a resistance within the department to the changes
that Bilal was implementing. This led to the fabrication of a police report and
an attempted arrest which was denounced at the time by Delaware County District
Attorney Jack Whelan. Bilal did later on file a lawsuit against the Borough of
Colwyn in which there a was settlement.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 200%;">SHERIFF
ELECT;</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "book antiqua" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Bilal’s
career has come full circle and she was nominated through the Democratic Party
to the first woman to serve as Sheriff for the City of Philadelphia. “It is an
honor that the people have entrusted me to serve them and their city.”” It is a
very important job, there is so much work to do and I am prepared.”” I will be
able to shed light on crime and make change as it pertains to all people.”
Bilal shared a concern for the disproportionate amount of people of color
losing their homes in The City of Philadelphia. “We are going to take a look at
home loss and thoroughly inspect all processes and proceedings within the City
of Philadelphia.” ”We can support our residents in keeping their homes. “
“There are established legal safeguards, this combined with policy and working
very closely with various city programs we will protect home ownership in the
City of Philadelphia. “</span></div>
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<br />ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-77491896390742821872015-09-17T11:58:00.001-07:002015-09-17T12:09:52.199-07:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%;">TRAIL BLAZERS</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">By Karimu Abena Hamilton </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img class="ar Mc" height="425" itemprop="image" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/AZe5XZlR41cHj03S-UEpemWUBcr5tc2n20P1jFRhcfk74p4dP6esH7c8fkeRu1_m2OatakfZTkNRWvDLbBY_6m7uJsqFmVIdipfQO4yAVHmOtdMOszkn=w426-h284" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-height: 284px; max-width: 426px;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo provided by karimu abena</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">In<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> 1763
Benjamin Franklin organized the first volunteer fire company in Philadelphia.
The notion evolved from a fire that wiped out a large portion of warehouses on
a wharf and burned down three homes causing thousands of dollars in damages.
The company was called the Bucket Brigade., which enlisted 30 members of the
established white privileged males. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
1818 a Philadelphian African American Fire Club was organized by a group called
the African Fire Association. Unfortunately, the organization was dismantled as
a result of resistance from white fire fighters that felt it would be a threat
to the communities that they would potentially serve. "The formation of
fire-engine and hose companies by persons of color will be productive of
serious injury to the peace and safety of citizens in time of fire, and it is
earnestly recommended to the citizens of Philadelphia to give them no support,
aid, or encouragement in the formation of their companies, as there are as
many, if not more, companies already existing than are necessary at fires or
are properly supported.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">It has
been documented that the first Woman Fire Fighter was actually an African
American Woman named Molly Williams of New York. It has been rumored that she
wore a calico dress and checkered apron as she confronted numerous fires
alongside her male counterparts. Centuries later, Fire Departments all over the
country have become inclusive of all races and gender. </span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Lisa Forrest was inducted as the first PFD
African American Woman Fire Captain and would be the third woman fire fighter
captain of the City of Philadelphia. </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN;">In the West Philadelphia Quiana Cureton- Williams has broken barriers and
made history as well. She is the first African American and Female Firefighter
of Engine 68. “I have always wanted to accomplish goals that were
nontraditional for women.” Williams explains. She is a mother, wife and
Firefighter. “I have been working for the department for the last 7 years,
being a woman has its challenges, but I love my job.” A day for Williams starts
off with an inspection of the vehicles and her equipment. “We are also
responsible for the house cleaning and food preparation.” “We stay at the
firehouse in shifts, which allows us to spend time with our families.” “The
firehouse itself can be considered a second home and the engine members are a part
of my extended family.” It has to be that way for we rely so heavily on each
other when fighting fires.” Williams recalls one of her most memorable Fire
Fights was on 52nd and Lancaster Avenue at an elementary school. The crew had
pulled out and she was the last one remaining in the building. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was alarmed but the Department trains us to
remain professional and think quickly in those types of situations.” Williams
reflects. “As an example to my community members with proper training and hard
work you can do anything you put your mind to.”</span></span></span>
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ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-58289149432234860732013-06-18T13:17:00.001-07:002013-08-21T05:15:11.162-07:00<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 22.0pt;">On Course With LaRue
Temple-113th U.S. OPEN<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> By Karimu Hamilton <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">There
was a tinge of excitement everywhere in Ardmore P.a. The Norristown
High-Speed Line was jammed pack with middle aged men and some women in khaki
shorts, skirts or pants, white visors and a rainbow assortment of polo shirts.
Business boomed for residents and local businesses of the region alike. The 113<sup>th</sup> U.S. Open was held in
the suburban region of Pennsylvania on the Main Line and every one was excited.
“Oh I can’t really explain it…” Dale Venable of Dales Beauty Salon Reflects; “but
there was a sense of excitement in the air, it would have been even better if
Tiger Woods had won.” She giggled. “My daughter”, another main liner beams as
she walks up Lancaster avenue actually secured a Job at the U.S. Open for the week,
she sold concessions and this was a
perfect way for her to start her summer.’ These are the type of stories that
are being told; generously sprinkled throughout the Main Line regarding the past
U.S. Open Event in Lower Merion, Ardmore, Pa last week. The local story however
that has had a lasting impact is of Temple Larue, a young gentle man, a North Philadelphia
residents who works at The Merion golf course; was solicited to be the caddy for golfer Michael Kim at the U.S.
Open. “The Caddy has knowledge of the course; he assists the golfer around the details
of wind factors, club and shot selection, distance and textures.” “The caddy is
sort of like an assistant or guide to the golfer.” Larue explains. Growing up
Larue was a huge fan of baseball. His mother would take him to the games during
the season and he would always stay after the game to get autographs of his
favorite players. “There is a click of the same people that always hang around
after the game to get autographs of players and <i>that’s </i>when I met a woman named Lisa Jinn who recommended me to
work at the Merion Golf Club.” Larue has been working at The Merion Golf for 16
years. “It has been a great journey working at The Merion, you have to have
discipline, be able to withstand the heat and carry heavy golf bags.” “It was
an amazing experience to work with Michael Kim.” He was a great player, actually
a stellar player and very easy to work with.”” We had a lot of fun on the course
we were working but we were also cracking jokes.” Larue is a big fan of Tiger
Woods. “Well Merion is tough and Tiger he wasn’t prepared, I think that a lot of
players undermined The Merion and were just not able to gain harmony with the
course.” Larue reflects. Larue is definitely a gentleman, he has an excellent
work ethic, he also works as and has a passion D.J ing, <i>and </i>he is a bartender. He does enjoy playing golf for leisure and believes
that working at The Merion Golf course is a good place for him to be, he is
surrounded by successful entrepreneurs and businessman and being in that
environment has place him on course.</span></b></div>
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<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-80628282387053736432013-01-03T11:02:00.000-08:002013-01-03T11:26:32.332-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">CELEBRATING KWANZAA AT THE IMHOTEP INSTITUTE CHARTER HIGH<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the best food i ve had in a long time</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mamma k live food specialist</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble\</td></tr>
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Kwanzaa was established during a time period when African Americans were involved in a cultural evolution. Prior to this movement which would have begun in the early 1960’s <b><i>visible</i></b> African American culture had been limited to the experience of slavery and poverty. Founders of this cultural evolution had become <b><i>very </i></b>concerned with the negative impact that these facets of American culture would have on their children and their communities. Thus, collectively and independently a nationwide movement had been born and it cross referenced all components of culture. Kwanzaa, Jambo Means Hello, The National Black Theatre, Central Harlem Montessori Project, Afro centricity and Odunde are all examples of what the cultural evolution produced. Children were given traditional West African Names, Independent African American schools were founded and rites of passages were structured. It was an extremely successful strategy. The mission of this movement was to provide the African American community with literature, art, spirituality that goes beyond the history of slavery and explores the importance of Africa and the accomplishments of African American achievers in this country before, during and after being enslaved. Africa was no longer presented as a dark and unwanted place but a Continent that was rich in heritage, culture and resources. This year I attended an awesome Kwanzaa celebration held at the Imhotep Institute, a charter school in Germantown, Pa. founded by Christine Wiggins. The event was very well attended, there were a plethora of artisans whom sold thier crafts from crochet hats, homemade soaps, and self-published books and healing herbal concoctions. The cafeteria was adorned with delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes, finger foods and nutritious drinks. One vegan food vendor Mamma K an elder in the living food lifestyle says; “my introduction or education in diet and nutrition began over 40 years ago with the Nation of Islam and the guide book Eat to Live, by the Honorable Elijah Muhammad.” “I have since evolved my practice to natural food living and host occasional vegan food prep workshops and a Friday vegan café at my home in Willow Grove, Pa. Another outstanding vendor that embraced the spirit of this Kwanzaa celebration was Carolyn Griggs a Hospital Administrator who custom makes pens out of clay. Her creative company Posh Penique began with” a dream”, she explained. She followed through and it translated into very interesting characture pens that resemble African masks <i>and</i> everyday people. The auditorium was filled with drumming and dances by the Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble. Robert Dickerson, founder of Unity Community Center and The Universal Dance and Drum Ensemble was actually the Host of this event. “We have been performing for Dr.Karenga for 14 years now, “Dickerson reflects.” He actually hires our performance arts company to present before he lectures and it is an honor.” “ This was a historic event and it is important that we engage the youth and the entire community in hearing and meeting an African American scholar and visionary.” Dickerson continues. Dr. Maulana Karenga Kwanzaa founder and developer, was the last to speak and he stood at the podium as a very powerful figure. The audience was alert, at the edge of thier seats and hung off of his every word , some shouted yes and others swayed back and forth as he spoke.” Kwanzaa should be a way of life, a daily celebration of who we are as a people.” “We must remain connected to our African roots and embrace our entire heritage.” Dr. Karenga emphasized. In practicing values and systems that mirror greatness we will reflect that greatness in our lives and in our communities is at the core of Dr. Karenga’s message this evening. Kuumbaa which means creativity is the 6<sup>th</sup> principal that was being commemorated. This event in its entirety reflected all of the seven principles of Kwanzaa, an effective collaboration of committed individuals, die –hards to preserving, empowering African American Youth, Families and Communities. Developers of tools to assist in sustain a holistic African American Culture. <o:p></o:p></div>
ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-90343570474532305362012-12-14T09:51:00.004-08:002012-12-14T09:51:54.022-08:00AFROFUSION......<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">i<span style="font-size: small;"> love the african aesthetic and i totally adore this movement of afro-fusion design that is poping up all over the runway and even in shoe stores. I was on my way to work and I ran into this really cool lady who had this awesome book bag and i was inspired to take a picture and find out where did she get that bag...?</span></span><strong>karimu abena hamilton</strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">her name is ms. royale randolph( i think) and she brought her bag in ghana. she is a dance major and learned all of these interesting forms of dance and movement and she took history lessons there and remembers specifically a lesson on ghanain medicine....interesting.</span></div>
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ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-7734704653806865902012-10-30T15:49:00.000-07:002012-10-30T19:49:45.256-07:00West Philadelphia High School A Safe Haven For Hurricane Sandy Evacuees<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">red cross volunteers smile as they pass out oranges</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">helen mae reisner & norma edwards volunteer nurses</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua","serif";">A hurricane can be defined as a
tropical cyclone, a storm with winds that blow at a minimum of 74 miles per
hour. Along with strong winds a hurricane can be accompanied with heavy rain,
thunder and lightning. Hurricane Sandy made her presence felt late Sunday afternoon
with temperatures dropping, sporadic gusts of wind and heavy rain. Mayor Nutter,
through a press conference, urged “to all residents if you live in a low line
area, if you live in a flood prone area you need to relocate right now.” To
assist evacuees that do not have anywhere to go, The City of Philadelphia has
provided emergency shelter to its residents at West Philadelphia High School, Roxborough
High School and Samuel Fels High School. Mayor Nutter explains those site were
picked for a reason, “they are large, they are relatively new and they are able
to accommodate a large number of people as well as pets,” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At West Philadelphia High School, the
emergency response team appeared prepared and ready to serve Philadelphian
evacuees. There are Red Cross workers, Police Officers, Civic Volunteers walking
quietly through the hallways. ” My apartment is on the Mill Creek and last year
my whole apartment was flooded and I was unwilling to learn that lesson again.”
I am disabled , I came here so that me and my grandchildren would be safe.” “Once
Mayor Nutter had said The New West building, I was out,” Ms. Iceland of the Lucien
Blackwell Apartments <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>explained. ” I am
glad that I came and I feel safe,” she continued. The Gymnasium was quiet with
neatly lined cots covered in Red Cross blankets. “I am homeowner,” Mrs.
Jenell<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anderson of South West
Philadelphia explains . “I am scared to death of trees falling on my house. ” “The
roof is not stable and it may collapse.” “ I rushed so fast to West
Philadelphia High School that I brought my school books but forgot my clothing
and personal items.” The Red Cross has been great they gave me a sweat suit and
a bag of toiletries,” Anderson revealed. There is an intergenerational group of
volunteers in the building that range from <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>seniors to college students . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Helen Mae Reisner a nurse administrator for
the United States Postal Service and a volunteer nurse for this Hurricane Relief
effort <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>explains,” I have been doing this
for a long time I am here to serve and offer comfort to the evacuees. “ Alongside
Helen is Norma Edwards a 21 year nurse veteran for the City of Philadelphia . “I
worked for the city for 21 years at health center #4.” “This is what we do, we
are involved in many civic operatives regarding nursing.” “We are with the medical
reserves, first responders and today volunteers for the relief effort implemented
here at West Philadelphia High School,” Edwards explained. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are a pet owner, there is also a section
in the school for pets. At that time the shelter contained 5 cats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Janet from the Philadelphia County Animal Rescue
Team PCART explains , ” After Katrina people were unwilling to leave their animals
and so the Red Cross concluded that shelters should be set up for residents <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> their
pets.” In the cafeteria Red Cross workers are anxiously passing out sandwiches
and fresh fruit. The area is quiet and there is a sense of contentment. People
are playing cards, game boards , children’s feet are kicking under the table
gently as they wait in anticipation for their mothers to peel their oranges. It
still is the beginning and the storm has yet to arrive but amidst this
potential crisis The City of Philadelphia <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is prepared with what feels like a safe haven
for its South West and West Philadelphian Residents. <strong>Karimu Abena Hamilton</strong></span> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV6vx4rGrfk/UJBc4dfbbBI/AAAAAAAAAbo/lh4Ssf8kTpY/s1600/Ms.+IceLand+of+The+Lucien+Blackwell+Homes+on+cobbs+creek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV6vx4rGrfk/UJBc4dfbbBI/AAAAAAAAAbo/lh4Ssf8kTpY/s320/Ms.+IceLand+of+The+Lucien+Blackwell+Homes+on+cobbs+creek.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ms. iceland of lucien blackwell apartments<br />
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<br />ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-80462274584207381912012-10-02T07:43:00.002-07:002013-08-21T05:17:50.207-07:00COMMUNITY UNITY <br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1100 Block of Wilton
Street Moving On Up<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">grant larry palmer block captain</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Through the
Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee is a community based
initiative designed to encourage and support residents in gaining control of
their immediate environment. This is implemented through a series of city wide
agencies such as The Office of Sustainability which explores food, energy and
greening initiatives. The Office of Neighborhood Services through their
Community Life Improvement Program CLIP addresses graffiti, abandoned
buildings, lots and overall sanitation issues and finally ,The Office of Community
Services which provides Philadelphia residents with Omni –gender and age,family
,education and employment services. Last week Philadelphia More Beautiful
Committee PMBC hosted its annual clean block contest. The contest is held after
a seasonal city wide cleaning schedule. The Program is designed around short
term projects that require a neighborhood leader or Block Captain and
participating residents or Block Association. The 1100 block of Wilton Street
in South West Philadelphia is a participant this year. Grant Larry Palmer like
most residents on this street is a home owner and a second generation resident.
“As block captain” he expresses proudly, “I intend to take full advantage of
the resources the City of Philadelphia has made available to us.” “I would like
to restore the block to its original state where all of the houses have the
Corinthian style columns and lamp post that light the street.” ”I was raised on
this block and this was my mother’s house.” Larry explained as he passed out
supplies of push brooms, paint and paint brushes to his neighbors.” “Its
Judgment day and the sensation of community pride are infectious. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>School is out thus, the children ride their
bikes up and down the side walk with anticipation of a special surprise. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elderly women hustle and bustle to arrange
tables and table cloths with tin foil pans toppled over with southern based
comfort foods like fried fish, chicken, kale and collards, string beans, sweet
potatoes, cole slaw, upside down cake <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and
</i>sweet potato pie. Judges look on beaming and impressed with the strong
sense of unity that is exhibited among the block residents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wanda Jones an administrator for The
Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee explains, “The block is judged on several
different aspects. “Community involvement, the history of the block, block
unity, cleanliness and beautification projects.” “Resident community
involvement and awareness is key components to the success of block beautiful
contestants.” Wanda Jones reiterates. The bouncer has arrived, an antiquated
Philadelphia trolley is parked at the end of the street and soul music is playing.
The judges of this contest detail a cross demographic of civic leaders from
former block captains, elected officials, church leaders and even other city
agency administrators. Essentially individuals who have made an impact through
demonstrating strong leadership and organizational skills are qualified to
judge in this contest. Tara E. Smith a community support specialist under the
Town Watch integrated service divisions and also functioning as one of the
judges for the contest states” I have a lot of respect for block captains and their
ability to enroll the community, taking into consideration everyone’s busy
schedule it really is an accomplishment for blocks to enter the block beautiful
contest.” Also as an liaison for the South West division of Town Watch the competition
is an excellent promotional There is a great since of accomplishment amongst
the residents this afternoon. The Block Beautiful contest can be considered a
stepping stone, grooming neighborhoods to explore and secure other neighborhood
development projects like planting trees, home weatherization,healthy food
initiatives and implementing a community business improvement district. City wide
initiatives and support systems partnered with concerned organized residents is
the recipe for sustainable communities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <strong>karimu abena hamilton</strong></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-42886280256567606872012-09-21T14:15:00.001-07:002012-09-24T08:59:02.514-07:00melissa maddonni haims Yarn Bombing -oooOO ahh ohhh....<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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this is called breast strokes.....<br />
originally created in 2010 for a show whose focus was on breast cancer awareness month.<br />
ps. since my mom died of breast cancer on january 7, 2008.<br />
she taught me how to knit and crochet a number of times during my life, but it really stuck right before she died. </div>
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i have always had a very deep respect for transformative
art. i am inspired by those who can take materials from their immediate
environment and create or capture a moment that brings forth joy. Melissa Madonna
Haims was born and raised in norristown pennsylvania. her father was an
excavating contractor which entails digging and preparing sites for
construction. her mother Theresa Maddoni was a craft artist. in fact both her
paternal and maternal grandparents worked with fabrics in the context of
knitting, crochet and sewing. hence, Melissa growing up had been influenced by
creativity. as a young adult she studied at the Parsons school of Design where
she received a degree in fine arts and marine affairs. she has worked in new York
for several years as an established installation artist. this role would entail
going to a gallery space and transforming the space with art. she also had a
long standing career as an Interior Designer for the carpet industry managing
large accounts in the states and abroad within corporate sector. not too long
ago her mother passed away and she began to work on her unfinished knitting
projects. diligently one by one as her mother’s spirit quietly guided her. one
day she wasn't quite sure what to do ...with one of her mother’s projects and she
decided she would make something else. maybe
the piece became a soft sculpture or a component to a mixed media fixture
...melissa was evolving and had progressed as a fiber artist. she began working with fibert art
genres described as; <em>yarn bombing</em> which involves crocheting or knitting on existing
public or private structures, <em>hyperbolic crochet</em> entails applying a
mathematical approach to crochet patterns, <em>mixed</em> media pieces and soft
sculpture. melissa is an active member of the 3rd street gallery, a cooperative
gallery in old city. she is on the executive team for Fiber Philadelphia 2012,
a city wide festival exploring the fiber arts. currently melissa has made a
shift and is working as an independent artist. this allows her to spend more time with her
daughter and husband and though she truly enjoyed working as an employee, there
has become such a demand for her art work that she must focus on writing
grants, securing commissions and building her business. i see symbolism in the
act of yarn bombing ....visualize and actively bring your dreams to life.<strong>
karimu abena hamilton </strong><o:p></o:p></div>
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knit graffitti</div>
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<img height="77" src="http://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 216px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 28px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" />ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-40322240369084194092012-09-14T16:04:00.002-07:002012-09-20T11:10:02.467-07:00MADIA WILLIS -BiriBelle <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CNA4XaBW8Q8/UFO5Kb6nCDI/AAAAAAAAAWg/mMNezlm3P_w/s1600/madia+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CNA4XaBW8Q8/UFO5Kb6nCDI/AAAAAAAAAWg/mMNezlm3P_w/s640/madia+6.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vintage influence with afro fusion </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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do you know about the african goddess? Ok there is the european goddess,the indian goddess, the asian goddess,the american goddess, the african american goddess to name a few.... and then there the the African Goddess. depending on the region there will be variances or differences but there is a characteristic of the African Goddess that is finite. .powerful. you can reference contemporaries such as iman, issa rae les nubians , ngozi odita, dambisa noyo, chimamanda adichie, or you can explore african antiquated goddess such as nandi zulu, cleopatra, nzingah ,yaa asatewa. when they strike... they make a mark. this is locally, at war, in politics or in business, when the african goddess is around you will feel her and she will make an impact. Madia Willis born and raised in America by her Liberian parents is one of the next leading emerging Internationally positioned textile designers. She attended Columbia Univercity as a Political Science Major with a concentration in International Relations with the intentions of going to Law School. During her Junior year at Columbia, she studied abroad in Ghana and that is where she cultivated a strong interest in design and transforming materials in her immediate environment into pieces of art. she then decided that she would transition from political science to her love of textiles and design. After graduating Madia took on a job as an admission director for at an elite private school . The income from her position she used to develop her business. She maintained her relationships in Ghana and began manufacturing her line from the continent. She collaborated with a group of artist and formed a designers collective called Dekka. "A seamstress has more technical skills in the context of measurements, cuts, folds,..." but the designer and seamstress should work well together. I am a designer she informs me <i>not</i> a seamstress. "My first seamstress was from Syria and she was extremely instrumental in assisting me in bringing forth my vision" '...Madia recollects. Her business was growing and expanding. she quit her day job to pursue a masters and "develop a full understanding in regards to the principals of design."some of the components includes" size, lines,shapes color and texture." madia explains. This summer as a result of her pursuit and demonstration of excellence she was chosen to participate in paid internship with TARGET designing patterns and prints for their women's clothing line. In terms of how Madia defines her own clothing line she would describe it as fusing traditional West African fabrics with vintage and bohemian style. <b>BiriBelle</b> represents" the smart, sophisticated, well traveled, confident, and cultured woman who transcends racial and social barriers."</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a dress that Madia was working on for a Ms. Liberia in a college pagent</td></tr>
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The above piece explores MADIA WILLIS in Political and artistic form; her interpretation through design of the Trayvone Martin Case... <br />
"I decided to do a collection of prints centered around the Trayvon Martin Case and what I perceive to be the performative nature of justice in America." My assignment was titled "What's in the air?" </div>
ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-54662516605339464172012-05-23T13:47:00.000-07:002012-05-24T06:07:56.722-07:00nia nadii and her clay beads<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">goddesses are few and far between. because i am a self proclaimed one i tend to be able to identify them on sight. they come in many shapes, forms, sizes and from near and far. there are african goddesses, european goddesses, harlem goddesses, brooklyn goddesses and philadelphian goddesses too. for me goddess culture is a way of life <em>and</em> thinking . the goddess reference point is the self. not in the individualistic context but a wholisitc one. goddess culture says ; in cultivating an independent self outside of restrictive thought.... gives you freedom . it removes or displaces you from the burden and or barriers that are applied when one lives <em>and</em> applies to <em>thier </em>life limited thought and thinking. the goddess has a value system and ethics. she is busy with evolution thus,her children, her family and most importantly her community evolve along side her. so you'll find that some goddesses will be mothers in non-traditional family settings, thier diet and eating habits will consist of foods in the pyramid or not at all...goddesses and their life styles vary but there is one thing that they have in common and that is they are <em>free.</em>this particular goddess i met in philadlelphia while vending costume jewelry in university city. she was a regular and a favorite. she would always buy really interesting pieces of my jewelry that she explained, she would use to make her own. the following year i ran into nia and she had began her own jewelry line <em>but </em>instead of using pieces and beads, she decided to make her own beads out of clay. brilliant. here is a brief interview with nia nadii and her hand crafted jewelry from her hand crafted clay beads. <em>karimu abena hamilton</em> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><strong>1<span style="font-size: large;">.where are you from?</span></strong></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm from a small town Michigan,<br /><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>2.</strong> <strong>how did you get involved in jewelry making?</strong> I got involved in jewelry because I couldn't find anything I wanted to wear so I started making things<br /><strong></strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>3.</strong><strong>who is your market ?</strong> My jewelry is wearable art so I market to artists or those who need to tap into their inner artists</span></span><br />
<strong></strong><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>4.</strong> <strong>how did you come up with the idea to make your own beads? </strong>My initial idea was to buy beads but I thought of that being unoriginal and lazy so I thought of doing wood but felt it would take long to learn to use the wood carving tools, so I heard someone talking about clay bowls and a light went off.<br /><strong></strong></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>5.how is business?</strong> Business is good, im just so busy with work that i need to transition from employee to jewelry designer for business to go great.</span></span><strong><span style="font-size: large;">6. What advice do you have for emerging independent business owners such as your self ?</span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span></strong><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I would say be organized (which im not), network (which i don't do), and be consistent with working on designs and perfecting the craft (which i do), and always remain optimistic because you never know what your ideas will turn into if you stick with them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">7.i understand that you are vegan can you explain to me how that has impacted your life?</span> </strong><span style="font-size: large;">Prior to me becoming a vegan i was experiencing a lot of uncertainty in life. there was a lack of awareness. now that iam a raw vegan i have so much more clarity and tons of energy .. vegan means awareness for me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New; font-size: large;"><strong>8.explain to me your creative process in making clay beads? </strong>Essentially i just take clay pick colors, bake and shape. If I am inspired by a concept then i will plan.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><br /></span></strong> </div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-14300910113380853672012-05-21T21:59:00.000-07:002012-05-23T15:24:03.783-07:00da drummer<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">growing up in harlem; i had <em>african</em> dance class,<em>african</em> sprituality class,<em>african</em> history class, <em>african</em> heritage afterschool class. <em>african</em> rites of passage class.. .soo as you can imagine the drum was a familiar object for me. however,not until i hit the jazz scene and met and socialized with live musicians did i begin to cultivate an understanding of the power of the drum. i understood later on that a drum beat was only as powerful as its drummer and that was only after i dated <em><strong>one</strong></em>. master drummers are the care takers of the beat, the drummer contains the rhythm and keeps all other notes and musical functions aligned. it is the base and foundation of the melody. this particular drum circle gathered at clark park in philadelphia. there are two different types of drums featured here conga and djembe both deriving from africa and influencing world music of the caribbean and latino cultures. come join me for a brief moment with the drummers <strong>k.abena</strong></span></div>
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<br />ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-39306778818303123162012-05-16T23:28:00.001-07:002012-05-23T15:25:36.950-07:00<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Dessert </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">tonight i had an ice cream party. i served vanilla ice cream and with the option to top with whipcream, blackberries, rasberries, chocolate syrup and the delicious peanut butter cups that i brought from reading terminal. i decided to serve dessert on my mother's antique cut crystal glass, with silver spoons and white linen napkins. my grandfather spencer lee gettys looved dessert and loved vanilla ice cream so i added a picture of him for a special touch. <strong><em>karimu abena hamilton</em></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fresh berries </td></tr>
</tbody></table>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-37906827045673768262012-05-16T16:33:00.005-07:002012-05-16T16:47:48.233-07:00STYLE<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">STYLE:</span></em></strong> <em>The way in which something is said,done expressed or performed or a combination of artisitic expression or performance characterizing a particular person,group,school or era., distinctive features</em>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">my mother at times would suck her teeth at me when i would dress as a teenager and complain ..<em>you go to school in the village...where is your sense of styyyyle karimu...?! Style is not about matching everything...style is about taking risk</em> my mother would advise.. <em>step outside of the box try not to look so common.... i saw orunduns daughter djassi and she had <strong>style</strong> she had her hair out and i can't remember what</em> <em>she had on but it was stylish</em>.... she would snap and then go back to reading the new york times....i would sigh and go back to my room and rummage through my closet then dig up an african print head wrap or change my shoes to boots or put on a straw hat and then walk back into the living room...<em>better. </em>my mother would praise. today as i skim through childhood pictures of myself, <em>i really do</em> appreciate the way my mother dressed me. i see peter pan collars, ruffle dresses, up do hair styles, opaque stockings and thick black shoes. as a child i thought that it was very mean for my mother to dress me that way ..i always wanted a bang and shiny mary janes but( <em>i </em> <em>would have to rely on mama my grandmother to buy me</em> <em>those</em>) in the end i was cute.among many things mommy had an excellent fashion sense.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Today riding on the train I ran into two women that i thought were <em><strong>stylin</strong></em> and i just haad to stop them and take pics and find what some of there secrets were. as you will see in the pictures both topics are two very different people of race, socio and economic backgrounds but their intepretation of cool and comfortable are similar. meet Loretta Kurlich and Charday Bullock. take a look and tell me what you think. <strong><em>karimu abena hamilton</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> <em>Loretta Kurlich</em></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><em>loretta looking very cool.</em></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shoe game </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">love the costume jewelry and beads <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">CHARDAY BULLOCK</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shes cute right,</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">strike a pose</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pretty earrings </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">i like the hair tooo.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; text-align: center;">i indulged in a delicious lunch today at Tandoor</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TANDOOR RESTAURANT </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tandoor Oven</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Today for lunch I had a delicious meal at Tandoor a local Indian Restaurant located in the heart of Philadelphia's University City. The name Tandoor refers to the ancient traditional clay ovens that are used in India and other eastern parts of the world. It is Cylindrical in form and heat is generated from the Tandoor oven by charcoal or wood. Because clay is a conductor of heat the oven remains hot for long periods of time and allows you to cook larger amounts of food longer. I </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">enjoy </i><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Indian food, it is very similar to dishes prepared in Africa, The Caribbean and even southern regions of the United States. When eating Indian food your taste buds are going to experience flavors like; cumin,cloves,curry,fennel,bay leaves and paprika to name a few. Today I indulged at the Tandoor buffet and filled my plate with basmati rice, lentils, curry chicken, lamb, vegetable samosa and a fresh green salad..</span><b style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.karimu abena hamilton </b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tandoor Oven</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-24661008605624905092012-05-12T19:23:00.000-07:002012-05-15T16:11:20.685-07:00cool natural hair style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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pretty simple cornrowed and twist up do </div>
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being and raised in harlem by a collective of conservative afrocentrists, i was not aloud to wear a perm or process my hair. we were taugth to love our hair in its natural state and to be proud of its wolly texture as my mother would suggest. now of course as i matured , i began to explore wearing my hair in weaves and wigs, i enjoy the versatility. but there is nothing like finding joy in managing your own natural hair. </div>
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i was on my way to Reading Terminal of Philadelphia and ran into Deirdra Church. Dierdra Church works with an organization called Food Trusts as a Projects Assistant. As a Project Assistant she is responsible for bringing nutrtional awareness to food providers or grocery stores in low income communites. Dierdra enjoys her job and wearing her hair natural in simple styles which she says should last for about three weeks.......karimu abena hamilton </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IidpXMzahhA/T68VJnR2tlI/AAAAAAAAAKM/9o6JOzRG_DQ/s1600/IMG066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IidpXMzahhA/T68VJnR2tlI/AAAAAAAAAKM/9o6JOzRG_DQ/s640/IMG066.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-72416603548058902462012-05-12T09:03:00.000-07:002013-08-21T05:21:51.419-07:00ms. mary and her awesome vintage jewelry collection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">my late mother barbara gettys hamilton would be defined by some people as a hoarder and others as a Collecter. she was born in the thirties which would mean that she survived segregation, the civil rights movement,the black cultural movement, black and white television,lace tablecloths, depression glass , milk glass, bakelite typewritters<em> and</em> a black president too name a few. i think that people of her generation have experienced soo many cultural transitions that they begin to collect items of thier past. items that bring them back to Sunday dinners as a child, a certain type of pocketbook worn to a formal, a song with lyrics that made them smile. i believe my mother began purchasing her items as a collection of memories. three years later today i am still going through her items and i have found that she loved pretty things...lace , sparkly jewelry, shiny pocket books and colored dishes. i recently ran into a woman in west Philadelphia named ms. mary. never in my life had i met some one whom had such an extensive costume jewelry collection as. no one had my mother beat but i think she comes very close. i walked by her table and had to take a seat. because i could not believe it what a collection!!!!! meet ms. mary she migrated to Philadelphia during the depression from the Carolina's. she is a mother of 6 children and attends church every sunday. she has been collecting for 35 years . she enjoys wearing jewelry and use to go to flea markets to shop. then her friends would call her as they moved out their homes and into assisted living dwellings and offer her some of their collection. she decided then she had tooo much stuff and transformed her collection into a business. she shares a small piece of her legacy with the world 0n 48th and baltimore avenue in west philadelphia twice a month on the weekends</span>. <strong>karimu abena hamilton</strong></div>
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ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-28681096838154954442012-05-11T13:10:00.000-07:002012-05-11T13:10:13.887-07:00<br />
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In a recent interview with <em>rolling out</em>, Rae discussed the inspiration for the series and what it means to be an awkward black girl. –<em>karimu abena hamilton</em><br />
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<a href="http://rollingout.com/entertainment/awkward-black-girl-shares-how-to-take-your-entertainment-business-online/">http://rollingout.com/entertainment/awkward-black-girl-shares-how-to-take-your-entertainment-business-online/</a>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-9432566478470468172012-05-07T15:48:00.000-07:002013-08-21T05:25:38.011-07:00jazz and the musical gods and goddess..st.nicks pub<div style="text-align: justify;">
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MY FIRST EXPEREINCE WITH JAZZ AND THE MUSICAL GODDESS</div>
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this woman here is one of the first artists to assist me in cultivating the term musical goddess. my extended journey into the musical realm began for me late in life. pause... rewind. i believe myself to be extremely well acculturated in various genres of african american art forms. i was been born and raised in harlem by parents who were serious afrocentrists, artist and civil rights activists. i was working at a book store cafe named hue man and was extremely bored and felt completely exploited. i was an excellent saleswoman.thus, i was pretty much earning the salary of myself and co-workers every day and was tremendously bored and disappointed,,, with my life.... the gentrification process of harlem <em>and </em>black culture. with hip-hop being completely materialized and exploited, i felt like there was no hope and was pretty much done with harlem, done with black culture.... done with america and essentially ready to leave the country. ready to experience something new, fresh and spiritual. it was actually a consistent prayer of mine that i be removed from this culture of america. i could no longer stand it. one day, a man by the name of Vincent Lampkin walked through the door. I knew him from the streets of harlem, he was always promoting his venue st.nicks pub...a jazz club and he had invited me on several occasions to work for him. " no" i would respond "i am hip-hop"..."i am hip-hop not jazz." i would say defiantly..... and he would shake his head and just walk away. well one day he came into hue-man book store and i urged him over to the cafe counter." please," i begged him "please get me out here," " i need a job." i am miserable and this place sucks," i whispered and giggled. "okay it’s not much money...it’s a jazz club and you will be serving drinks and if your good ...you'll get good tips...see you on Thursday at 8p.m.." he informed me "okay” i replied relieved. </div>
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that night i put on a dress and went to work. when i walked through the door i was traumatized and frightened. i had been around and experienced street culture but THIS environment and its participants were unfamiliar and i was afraid. vincent disappeared and a man named floyd appeared he told me he was security. it was dark, dim there were a lot of men and there was a woman walking around in a cat suit, a mask and a whip in her hand. the crowd was old school and there was heavy smell of liquor. i saw white men , black men and toothless women. it was a matrix that i had never entered before.... i had been set up and i knew it. "what’s ur name?" Floyd inquired. my mouth was glued shut.... i was speechless, my heart was racing and i was looking for a way out. i heard music but could not <em>hear.</em> my third eye was focused on the density of the souls that i had encountered. he proceeded to show me around... i needed space... he opened the door to the backyard , the heavy metal door opened with a slarge squeak attached to it and closed with a giant slam..."this is karimu" he yelled to the patrons "our new cocktail waitress." every one kind of looked up in syncopation with out saying a word and in that same rhythm went back to what they were doing. "is this the bathroom i whispered." choking back tears. "yes go ahead." he answered. "I’ll be right here."he consoled. i went into the bathroom and wept. mommy is going to be soo upset with me i cried big tears, i was not raised to be in this type of environment." i cried, i believed that i had been set up. i got off my knees done with my prayer for help and protection and opened the door. "why are you crying?" floyd exclaimed. "this is a safe place we are not going to let anything happen to you." he said to me as i hung my head down in shame. he grabbed my chin and said "look nothing is going to happen to u hear i promise." he said to me earnestly. and then i began to<em> hear</em> the music. i looked up on the stage and there were three woman ,treZure Empire, courtney bryan a brilliant pianist and lakecia benjamin a female saxophonist and to top it off they were younger than me, brilliant and fearless... courtney bryan was tearing the keys up on the key board, treZure was singing a blues esque song and lakecia benjamin had captured the spirit of miles davis it made me laugh and i thought to myself <em>she thinks she is miles davis. </em>and she was. that night . it tickled me. everytime i looked on stage i cracked up . joy. i straightened up pretty quickly seeing them on stage gave me <strong>courage</strong>. if they can be there.... i for surely can work here. it was great night and my world had become expanded, it was a rites of passage for me to be a part of the Jazz scene where black soul and spirit reside and thrive, untamed and untapped by commercialism. for me jazz is one of the most authentic preserved african american art forms and being inducted into this world was an honor and a privilege to<em> share air</em> with what i believe were the anointed, the beautiful ones that could hear, see, and present gods interpretation of joy and share it with the world...the musical goddess...the musical gods<strong>....karimu abena hamilton </strong></div>
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ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-78290381603145912992012-05-04T16:20:00.000-07:002012-05-22T16:08:17.045-07:00<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">an awesome piece by stacey flygirrl</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The artists of Philadelphia are a patchwork quilt of eclectic treasures from the descriptive murals on the West to the North to Zagar’s magical mosaic garden. The Philadelphian artist is well rounded, multifaceted and tends to explore and perfect on more than one genre of art. Stacey Flygirrl Wilson reflects this artistic Philadelphian nature.An entrepreneur, graphic designer, artist and a promoter of progressive hip-hop music; Stacey Flygirrl Wilson has carved a named for herself that will remain prominent on the Philadelphia scene. </span><a href="http://www.flygirrl.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.flygirrl.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. k.abena</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a graphic piece by stacey flygirrl</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">I started out working at a jazz restaurant called Zanzibar Blue then managing a nightclub called Brave New World. So, before I even began to plan and promote my own music events, I was always in the midst of music and its creators. I am friends and acquaintances of many of the music artists in the city, so at the time, I was nurturing those relationships. From there, I began my venture with Squarebiz (myself, ?uestlove + yameen allworld). We created Tastytreats. Which now, is our weekly dance party that now is in its 9th year? Over the years I have produced many concerts, art exhibits and dance parties, all while bringing local and national talent that you weren't getting anywhere else in the city like Q-Tip, Dj Jazzy Jeff, Little Brother, KRS 1, Prince and more. Within the last few years, I expanded to my own company, "Flygirrl". Doing more on my own and venturing into other areas of the culture and to pursue more personal artistic and event based avenues.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Describe some of the qualities that are unique to Philadelphian artist? </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">i think Philly artists have such soul. Whether it is music, art, dance, we all come from this soulful city it is bound to be felt through our craft. On a negative note, i think most artists in Philly struggle with support. Sometimes, it seems hard to get Philly to care. The arts community doesn't seem as connected or as strong as it seems to be in other cities. And because of that, the struggle gets even harder.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">What is your favorite genre of art and why? </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">I would say Graffiti. It has so many elements in it that encompass different art in one art form. Aside from the various styles that are to be admired, there is also a design element if you look at the bold lines and the balance of how those lines fit within each other. There is always an Illustration feeling to it with great images and characters. It's so expressive you can't help but look as some when you pass it by. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">I read that your art -work was featured in Real World MTV-Philadelphia how did that happen? </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">When we heard that the Real World was going to be in Philly, a friend of mine was pushing me to contact them to get my work on the show. I put if off but eventually had them come view my work at a local gallery and got the gig. I had 6 pieces showcased on the show. Most of which were bought by the producers and crew when the show ended.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">What direction do you intend to take your company Flygirrl? </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Right now, I’m not sure. I'm at a turning point in my life and making some decisions about what is next. I enjoy doing so many things, it makes it hard to choose. I do know, that whatever i path i choose to take with Flygirrl, it will always be authentic. It will always be fresh. You just have to stay tuned!</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">The artist that you produce shows for are they your friends and who do you like to work with the most? </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">Well, I have a broad network. So, although they may not be "friends" most are acquaintances of mine. I’m happy to extend the spotlight to all artists, I just happen to know a lot of them. Building and maintaining relationships are key.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Batang, serif; font-size: 12pt;">k.abena</span></div>
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</div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-32268893592751038682012-05-02T16:13:00.000-07:002012-05-23T15:27:23.562-07:00Ms.Tootsie's South Street Hang Out k.abena<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">keven parker stand prouds at ms.tootsies</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">place to engage and socialize</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Book Antiqua", "serif";">written by: karimu abena hamilton</span></div>
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interview with:keven parker</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century", "serif";">Keven Parker at best could be defined as a community developer. He was able to transform the stalemated South Street of Philadelphia into a social hot spot where you can engage in great all forms of live entertainment, shop and relax for an overnight visit. Keven Parker is not only a successful businessman but also is committed to giving back to his community. His outreach [programs include training and employment along with having distributed over 30 scholarships to fund the education endeavors of young adults.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>He began his entrepreneurial endeavors as a catering company with the intentions of sharing the flavorful Soul food of his child hood. The company has five distinctive components; Simply Delicious Catering, Cafe 3801, Ms. Tootsies Restaurant Bar and Lounge and KDP Lifestyles and Lifestyles and Luxury suites. Keven Parker formed a partnership with his mother whose role ranged from Head Chef to executive counsel. Her guidance and contributions reflect in the southern comfort palate that is served there today<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">.</b> Adjacent to the restaurant he has added to the 2 block radius the KDP<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>Lifestyle and Luxury Suites. This includes Lifestyle and Luxury hotel and a specialty boutique that represents the KDP brand. Philadelphia’s South Street has now been secured as a destination spot which will give tourists and the locals the arts, culture, food <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and </i>a place to stay….www.kevenparker.net…..<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">karimu abena hamilton</b></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">delicious okra corn and tomatoes</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <b>1.How do you inspire your staff? </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> I lead by example and provide recognition where there is an opportunity. I also create an environment of ownership where we are all in this together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /><b> 2.When do you know that it's time for change?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> I know it's time for change when things no longer work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <b>3.What is one thing that you wish you knew before starting your company?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> I wish I would have known that running the business would be easier than managing the people. Each person comes with their own unique qualities and opportunities and the key has been learning to adjust and work with both.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /> <b>4.How do address conflict in the workplace?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> I address it immediately so that things don't have a chance to fester. I, also, meet with each person individually to give them a chance to get everything out honestly. I, then, bring them back together and work on a resolution.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /><b>5.What is your philosophy on making mistakes?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Learn from them and if you're able to do that you are able to find the true value in them.</span></div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0Philadelphia, PA, USA39.952335 -75.16378939.757580499999996 -75.479645999999988 40.1470895 -74.847932tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-84869541530965980662012-05-01T16:36:00.001-07:002012-05-23T15:28:22.297-07:00Beautiful Issa Rae Awkward Black Girl k.abena<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awkward Black Girl </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful issa rae</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">written by: karimu abena hamilton </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">interview with: issa rae</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: ""serif"", "serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Awkward Black Girl is a successful web series produced by Issa Rae that explores a day in the shoes of a young African American Woman. In ABG the web series main character “Jay” humorously goes through the daily challenges of everyday life; from the complexities of dating a white man, managing difficult co-workers and supervisor (which resulted in anger management classes), to finding her rhythm at a friend’s birthday party. This production and its colorful casts put Issa Rae in the category of visionary, producer, entertainer, comedienne and entrepreneur. The internet has become a platform of visibility for authentic progressive African American artists. The entertainment industry has limited the portrayal of black women in the three primary contexts; jezebel, sapphire and or mammy. Issa Rae’s brilliant production of Awkward Black Girl is an act of resistance towards these negative portrayals and provides viewers with an <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">alternative</i>. The ABG production challenges the notion of what is marketable with almost 9 million online viewers; ABG suggests that there is a strong interest in seeing the authenticity and lifestyle of progressive African American Women. With the Twitter best web series award under her belt and an upcoming season to launch; the Awkward Black Girl brand is here to stay. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">i experienced so much transcendental joy when watching this production i wanted to share it with the world. i had an opportunity to interview her briefly and here are some pressing answers to questions that i hope would answer some of your questions as well. <strong>karimu abena hamilton </strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1</span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">).What is your ethnic background? Where are you from? How were you raised? Describe your childhood, your parents….what was your immediate childhood setting like? </span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I am Senegalese American. My dad is Senegalese and my mom is from Louisiana. I was born in L.A., lived in Senegal, Maryland and L.A -- the middle of five kids. Three boys, two girls (including me).</span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2).I think that the web is a wonderful medium for entrepreneurs such as you… the web to me clearly exemplifies what has been titled the “free market” would you discuss with me how you got your start in this business?</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I was feeling pressured by my father to go to grad school and kept watching my friends pursue their careers and I refused to go the same route. I had been sitting on the idea for two years, making excuses about why I couldn't do it, and then I read an article in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Clutch Magazine</i> where the writer was asking, "Where's the Black Liz Lemon?" After reading her article I panicked that someone else would read it and create my idea before me. I stopped making excuses as to why I couldn't do it and just called up my friends and shot it guerilla style.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3).White Jay…That speaks to me on so many different levels…the title is humorous …but there is more to it. It sort of taps into the collective unconsciousness…tell me more about White Jay.. </span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">White Jay, or "Jay" as he was written in the script, was initially supposed to be a one episode character. We inserted him because Tracy (our producer) thought that having a white character would attract a white audience AND we wanted to include some temporary competition for Fred. However, after we aired the fifth episode, the comments were full of "#TeamWhiteJay" supporters. Thus, a fan-created love triangle was formed as we continued to develop this character. For the record, viewers named him "White Jay" not us. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4).I stumbled upon your web-series by accident ….and it was one of the most pleasurable experiences that I have had in the context of visual entertainment in a very long time… It was a transcendental moment and I was able to experience free joy and entertainment without anger or judgment. What forms oentertainment did you indulge in during your child hood and later as an adult? What are your influences? </span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Thank you! As a child, I pretty much watched everything. I remember vividly watching SNICK on Nickelodeon and TGIF on Fridays and thinking that I wanted to be a part of those shows in some way. Then 90s television came along, in all of its black glory and I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">loved </i>seeing people who looked like me on television. But then when those shows started disappearing, I started related to shows like Seinfeld, The Office, Arrested Development and 30 Rock, but those shows didn't really have many characters of color, if any at all, so I sought to change that. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">5). I believe that I am an awkward black girl…talk to me about her, who is she? How much of her is in you? How did you come up with that concept?</span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">"Awkward Black Girl" is an extension of me. She's just insecure in her environment and doesn't really know how to handle what most people would deem simple social situations. She's also awkward in the sense that she's not "typically" black. She's not mainstream media's depiction of black women by any means. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">6).Awkward Black Girl …I love the branding concept where are you going with this from a marketing perspective …I see the t-shirts and other paraphernalia ….Outside of you’re a new season which we are all waiting for what is next for ABG?</span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I actually came up with the brand, "I'm Awkward. And Black" before I came up with the series. I believed strongly in the identity as a brand and hope to expand it enough so that it can sustain itself, without the series. Also, I'd love to do an "Awkward Black Girl" film. That would be awesome. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">7). Discuss with me your production team and what is your role ?</span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Everybody who works on ABG has like 10 roles. I direct, produce, write, act and edit. Tracy acts, produces and writes. Shea is our cinematographer, director, editor, cameraman. Benoni & Madison handle our sales, marketing and social media strategy. For season 2, we're looking to divvy some of those roles to others.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">8).What advice do you have for producers of all genres in terms of getting there work out there for the world to see and the spirit of constancy ?</span><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Work with like-minded, dedicated individuals to produce content. Be extremely patient. Release it online!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Batang", "serif";"></span></div>
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<br /></div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1336711306923326270.post-55367691789670910112012-04-30T16:26:00.001-07:002012-05-15T16:09:06.221-07:00OSHUN BUMI FERNANDEZ ODUNDE k.abena<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5gHXrnAWxNo/T6BA2UX5eJI/AAAAAAAAAC4/qETIXwlB-w4/s1600/592284_292365354049_454432245_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5gHXrnAWxNo/T6BA2UX5eJI/AAAAAAAAAC4/qETIXwlB-w4/s200/592284_292365354049_454432245_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ceo oshun bumi hard a work</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">ODUNDE! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small; line-height: 150%;">Written by: karimu abena hamilton</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small; line-height: 150%;">Interview with : oshun bumi fernandez </span></div>
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Odunde which means happy New Year in the Yoruba language of Nigeria was founded in 1975 by a woman named Lois Fernandez as a street festival in South Philadelphia. Fernandez made a trip to Nigeria attended a festival in honor of osun (the goddess of beauty and love). She was inspired by the cultural context of this festival and its promotion of unity, family values, spirituality, and oneness with nature and consciously decided that she would transport and share this experience with her Philadelphian community. Odunde was established during a time period when African Americans were involved in a cultural evolution. Prior to this movement which would have begun in the early 1960’s <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">visible</i></b> African American culture had been limited to the experience of slavery and poverty. Founders of this cultural evolution had become <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">very </i></b>concerned with the negative impact that these facets of American culture would have on their children and the children of their communities. Thus, collectively and independently a nationwide movement had been born and it cross referenced all components of culture. Kwanzaa, Jambo Means Hello, The National Black Theatre, Central Harlem Montessori Project, Afro centricity are all examples of what the cultural evolution produced. Children were given traditional West African Names, Independent African American schools were founded and rites of passages were structured. It was an extremely successful strategy. The mission of this movement was to provide African American youth with literature, art, spirituality that goes beyond the history of slavery and explores the importance of Africa and the accomplishments of African American achievers in this country before during and after being enslaved. Africa was no longer presented as a dark and unwanted place but a Continent that was rich in heritage, culture and resources. The children of this movement were to comprehend that they were the beneficiaries to a great legacy and they were to live, celebrate and embrace it. Two generations later Odunde has maintained itself and remains one of the oldest and largest African American festivals in this nation. Odunde is multifunctional it serves as a platform of visibility for community members, entertainers, artists and entrepreneurs of all genres from all over the world to meet. This year Odunde will celebrate its 34<sup>th</sup> anniversary and the next generation of the above mentioned cultural evolution is here. Oshun Bumi Fernandez the daughter of Lois Fernandez has stepped into her mothers shoes and with her mother’s guidance Oshun Bumi will bring lead Odunde into the future. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">oshun bumi fernandez and founder lois fernandez</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">QUESTIONS& ANSWERS </b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q:karimu abena</b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A:oshun bumi</b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q:</b> Discuss with me your early experience with Odunde </div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A:</b> Odunde was a way of life for me. The first Odunde I was strapped to my mother’s back. It started off on one block in South Philadelphia, it was my mother, brother, aunt, and cousins extended family and community members. Odunde was a fabric of my life. I learned through Odunde about the process of life and the benefits of hard work, perseverance and standing strongly behind a vision and what you believe in.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q.</b> What Does Odunde Mean?</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A:</b> Odunde means Happy New Year in Yoruba which is one of the many Nigerian cultures. It celebrates the Yoruba deity Oshun which represents on a superficial level love, prosperity peace and unity.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q.</b> What is the Odunde Mission? </div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A.</b> Odunde goal has always been to bring to the community a taste of Africa, provide a market place for vendors from all over the world to display and sell their goods. You can buy food from various regions of Africa. Odunde also functions as a place for community and family members to unite or regroup. Odunde started off as a one block event and has expanded to 12 blocks, we have over 600,000,00 people that attend this event every year. The Odunde event brings in over 25.2 million dollars to the tri –state area. So Odunde has evolved physically and financially which allows us to expand and provide more services to our community.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q.</b> What Plans does Odunde have in the future?</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A.</b> Well in December of 2010 we will be opening up a 16 unit Senior citizens home called Oshun Village. My Mother was very concerned with how the elders of the community and in America were being treated. We wanted to create an environment that would provide holistic care for the elders of the South Philadelphian community. We also intend to become more involved in the community by establishing rites of passages, African and African American heritage programs; we intend to work very closely with the city of a Philadelphia to make the South Philadelphian community stronger for its residents.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q.</b> What is your background and had you intended to become the Executive Director of Odunde</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A.</b> Well actually I had intended to become a doctor and studied biology @ Temple. My mother became ill and I choose to remain close to her and while being given more of a leadership role in the Odunde Process. I also furthered my studies and received a MBA which will give me the tools I need to lead Odunde into the future.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Q.</b> When Odunde was first established it was before the internet, fund development, sponsorship, it was a grassroots operation. You must have a great appreciation for your mother and her colleague’s hard work, endurance and vision?</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A.</b> I feel very blessed and am thankful that I am my mother’s daughter. She always informed me of the strength of the woman in our family. I am proud that she has left this legacy for me and our community and I embrace the position I embrace the challenge and look forward to expanding the Odunde mission legacy for years to come.</div>
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<br /></div>ahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13665657027208735183noreply@blogger.com0