The Written Word: From Where I Sit

Celebrity: No Guarantee of Happiness

2012-02-13T20:22:00.000-08:00

While driving to work one morning last week, I heard a KNPR tribute to the late "Soul Train" creator and host, Don Cornelius. I was saddened to learn that the 75-year old had committed suicide by gun. Damn. I wondered why. Illness? Depression? The program provided no details.

Curious, I googled some articles that reported Cornelius had said he was "not quite the same" following 21-hour brain surgery. In 2008, Cornelius was charged with felony domestic abuse against his estranged wife, Victoria Avila-Cornelius, and placed on probation for 36 months.

Then, on Saturday, I learned from AOL that gorgeous, talented Whitney Houston had died. Over the weekend media reports speculated that her death was due to a combination of prescription drugs and alcohol even though the medical examiner's office says it will take up to eight weeks for the toxicology report.

Whitney was one of America's favorite divas, even when she and former New Edition bad-boy, Bobby Brown, paraded their dysfunctional relationship before millions of viewers.

These tragic deaths remind us that celebrities are fallible. However, the world gets to see their foibles and faults in the glare of publicity. Likewise, millions of people--who don't know them--make rash judgements.

Celebrities' wealth and fame do not render them immune to mental or emotional problems. So, next time you look enviously at the life of a movie star, sports figure, or entertainer (even briefly), remember behind closed doors they struggle just like you and me.

"Anonymous" hackers: cyber rebels?

2012-02-06T23:57:00.000-08:00

Hackers are cyber rebels.

They brazenly penetrate "secure" computer systems and access e-mail communications of banks, law enforcement agencies, corporations, and credit card companies demonstrating their vulnerability.

Recently Anonymous, an amorphous collective of hackers, released audio segments of communication between Scotland Yard and the FBI. http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/anonymous-hackers-strike-15516681?tab=9482931&section=1206840&playlist=2521702

The group has launched cyber attacks across the world closing down the government website in Sweden, breaking into Greece's Justice Department, and accessing personnel data at police stations in Boston, Syracuse, and Salt Lake City.

Their video taunt, "Expect Us."

Ironically, I am reading, Ghost in the Wires, My Adventures as the World's Most Wanted Hacker by Kevin Mitnick with William L. Simon (Little Brown and Company, August 2011), now reformed and
a security consultant, co-author of two bestsellers, The Art of Deception and The Art of Intrusion.

Prior to his crossover from the dark side of hacking--into organizations such as Microsoft and Pacific Bell--Mitnick was pursued by the FBI and was one of U.S. Marshall's "most wanted."

Nonetheless, Mitnick served a total of 26 months--on three separate occasions--for breaking into phone company systems and downloading data and stealing files and manuals.

Today he heads Mitnick Security Consulting and speaks around the country about scams and security risks.

All of this makes me wonder. Just how safe are our personal histories, financial data, or personnel files? Personally, I think it is naive to think that any information is safe from hacking, whether benign or malicious. This is the price we say for continually emerging computer technologies.

Martin Luther King Day: Do We Remember?

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

Today we commemorate the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For many of us, however, this translates into a day off work.

Dr. King's legacy seems of little relevance to Americans in the new millennium; the drama, violence, and controversy surrounding the civil rights movement long forgotten.

Vicious police actions against nonviolent protesters--using fire hoses and attack dogs--shocked the nation. On the other hand, those televised images to mobilize people of different religions, race, and economic status in the fight against segregation.

Bombings, murders, and church-burnings dominated newspaper headlines during this period of deep unrest.

Millions of Americans--black and white, male and female, straight and gay--have benefited from the courage of King and ordinary citizens who faced hostile crowds and indifferent law enforcement to bring about change.

It is inevitable that historical events lose less impact for later generations who did not witness or participate in them

Nonetheless, by recalling our nation's history, we recognize the price paid by others for rights we enjoy today, even in times of economic instability.
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(Re-) Running Amok on TV

2012-01-09T21:11:00.000-08:00

We all know what to expect from TV programmers on holidays---marathons (re-runs). Day-long replays of old series (Twilight Zone, Law and Order) can be entertaining for loyal fans; however, too many networks/channels, including Sy-Fy, Lifetime Movie Network (LMN), Investigation Discovery, and A&E fall back on old (often stale) programming.

The Premium channels are not much better. Most of them feature the same movies week after week. So, that extra $10 or $11 monthly charge does not assure that viewers will get new content.

This week, for example, HBO's roster includes Gladiator (2000), Pulp Fiction (1994), Sixteen Candles (1984) and Missing (1982),

Cinemax's most recent movie is Sucker Punch (2011) and its oldest, Universal Soldier (1992).

Showtime offerings range from Talihina Sky: The Story of Kings of Leon (2011) to Serving Sara (2002).

Many of these movies are available at your local library for free!

Nonetheless, I (and millions like me) continue to pay for premium channels. Perhaps, we do so for the opportunity to an occasional hard-hitting documentary or original program whose content might not fly on the regular networks.

I only ask: HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime, please update your film archives from time to time.

Politicians and Public Perception

2012-01-02T22:35:00.000-08:00

"Few federal lawmakers must grapple with the financial ills -- unemployment, loss of housing, wiped out savings -- that have befallen millions of Americans,” said Sheila Krumholz, the Center for Responsive Politics’ executive director. “Congressional representatives on balance rank among the wealthiest of wealthy Americans and boast financial portfolios that are all but unattainable for most of their constituents.”
www.opensecrets.org/news/2010/11/congressional-members-personal-weal.html

You might have read last week that half of congressional members are millionaires--some multimillionaires. This fact does nothing to enhance the public's perception that lawmakers are out of touch with their constituents needs and concerns.

Many Americans live in fear of losing a job or not finding a job, incurring medical bills, keeping a home or selling one, getting out of debt, or just making ends meet. They want representatives who feel their desperation and care about their needs.

Some representatives, especially Republicans, do not support raising taxes on the wealthiest Americans but have few qualms about stopping unemployment benefits.

Currently, Operation Wall Street is the only large-scale expression of the public's dissatisfaction with corporate greed and congressional ineptitude.

Perhaps, "Operation Capitol Hill" will be the next big movement with millions of Americans setting up tents in front of the halls of Congress.

Resolutions...a way to positive change

2011-12-26T22:32:00.000-08:00

The New Year is upon us with its promise of positive change and renewed hope.

It is a time for making resolutions; however, I recently heard someone say that she is not making resolutions this year because she did not accomplish last year's.

Do not avoid making resolutions because of past failures. Change is difficult. Our habits develop over long years (often for reasons we are not conscious of) and resist breaking easily. There is a behavioral model that outlines the steps toward changing behavior or habits.

The Stages of Change model was originally developed in the late 1970's and early 1980's by James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente at the University of Rhode Island when they were studying how smokers were able to give up their habits or addiction.

Here is a much-simplified version:

Pre-contemplation: Not seriously thinking about change
Contemplation: Aware of consequences of a bad habit and thinking about your problems
Preparation: Have made a commitment to change
Action: Taking steps to change
Maintenance: Avoiding temptation to return to bad habit(s)
Relapse: Discouraged but recognize that cessation of a bad habit does not follow a straight path

Consider these stages when making resolutions. Expect to falter along the road to change. Narrow resolutions to one or two. Reward yourself for small steps taken in the direction you want to go.

My list of 2012 resolutions is short: handle my finances better, get fit(ter) and kick start my writing career.

Will you dare to change?

Zombie Love

2011-12-19T10:58:00.000-08:00

I am a fan of zombie movies and TV programs: "The Walking Dead," (AMC), "Shaun of the Dead," "28 Days Later," "Zombie Apocalypse," "Dawn of the Dead," "Return of the Living Dead" and countless others.

Imagine my surprise when a student in one of my writing classes said that he had done maintenance at an Army facility that housed real-live zombies! He was very serious (and seemed to be in his right mind).

He told me, "Go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website and see for yourself. They have information about zombie attacks."

Well, I did, and you can, too. http://emergency.cdc.gov/socialmedia/zombies_blog.asp.

Likewise, while driving through Vegas one afternoon, I spotted a truck with an official-looking decal that read--"Zombie Response Team."

Surely, zombies do not exist. What do you think?

Photo courtesy yaymicro.com

Book Lovers Alert

2011-12-12T20:22:00.000-08:00

One of TV's great offerings is C-SPAN2's Book TV (www.booktv.org), a weekend potpourri of interviews, seminars, and panels with non-fiction authors. Books run the gamut from history to linguistics to politics.

From book fair to bookstore appearances, authors read from, talk about, and answer questions about their books. I always find myself jotting down titles that I would like to read:

Pox: An American History by Brandeis University historian Michael Willrich
The Jersey Sting, A True Story of Crooked Pols, Money Laundering Rabbis, Black Market Kidneys, and The Informant Who Brought It All Down by New Jersey Star-Ledger investigative reporters Josh Margolin and Ted Sherman
What Language Is (And What It Isn't and What It Could Be) by linguist John McWhorter
Ten Letters: The Stories Americans Tell Their President by Eli Saslow

"In-Depth" is a three-hour interview program with viewer call-in and e-mails; few television programs devote that much time to serious discussion. Recent guests have included documentary producer, Michael Moore; novelist, poet, and essayist Ishmael Reed, and Ann Coulter, Fox News commentator and Dems-basher.

This week's schedule (December 17-18) features Tulane University political science professor Melissa Harris-Perry speaking at Hue-Man Bookstore in Harlem about her book Sister Citizen: Shame, Stereotypes, and Black Women in America (Sunday, December 18, 10:45 AM, EST)

Book TV keeps me in touch with major themes in U.S. and world history, politics, media, criminal justice as well as countless other issues and events.

I'm addicted; I hope you will be too.

Dissin' America's First Lady

2011-11-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

Americans love First Ladies who are stylish, supportive of their presidential hubbies, and diligent moms. Michelle Obama fits the bill on all counts.

Likewise, Mrs. Obama is a graduate of Princeton University (cum laude) and Harvard Law School, mother of two young daughters, Malia and Sasha (who are too young to get much press attention, thank God), and an advocate of childhood fitness and military families.

She is down-to-earth with a sense of humor and handles herself with aplomb at public appearances.

Why, I wonder, would NASCAR fans boo Mrs. Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice-President Joe Biden, last week at an event sponsored by NASCAR and Joining Forces, an organization that promotes the training and hiring of veterans?

Mrs. Obama does not make policy nor does she have political aspirations (unlike former first lady, and now secretary of state, Hillary Rodham Clinton).

The First Lady’s primary duty is to represent the United States at home and abroad, which Mrs. Obama does admirably.

For some narrow-minded Americans, the Obamas defy misconceptions and stereotypes about African-Americans. They are cosmopolitan, articulate, and family-oriented.

Political leanings aside, what more could you want in a First Family?

Flash Blacks

2011-11-21T20:26:00.000-08:00

I was talking to my sister about an old movie, Deadly Voyage, I'd recently seen featuring a very young Omar Epps as one of eight African stowaways on a British commercial vessel. Among the seven stowaways brutally murdered by the racist crew is British actor Chiwetel Ojiofor in his debut role.

I have followed Ojiofor's career since seeing him in the 2008 flick, Redbelt, in which he portrays a master martial artist and trainer.

The conversation with my sister, who had no idea who Ojiofor is, led me to wonder when Hollywood will recognize excellent black actors who appear in big budget films with major stars, but who still largely play supporting roles.

Among my favorites are:

Jeffrey Wright, 37, described by IMDB, an Internet movie site, as "one of the most underrated and underexposed actors of his caliber and generation." He's appeared Source Code, Cadillac Records, Inside Man, American Gangster, and Salt.

Mos Def, 38, former member of Black Star whose appeared in the Italian Job, Brown Sugar, 16 Blocks, and HBO's biopic Something the Lord Made, about the life of surgical technician Vivien Thomas, who helped pioneer heart surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the 1930s.

Michael Ealy, 37, blue-eyed actor whose played diverse roles in Showtime's Sleeper Cell, Barber Shop, Seven Pounds, Takers, and Miracle at St. Anna's.

Derek Luke, 38, most famous for playing opposite Denzel Washington in Antwone Fisher. His roles have included playing Sean "Diddy" Combs in Notorious and a South African activist during apartheid in Catch A Fire with Tom Robbins.

Honorable Mentions: Columbus Short (Stomp the Yard), Idris Elba (Takers), Shemar Moore (TV's Criminal Minds), and Tyrese Gibson (Transformer).

There are others, but in the interest of brevity, I've mentioned these few.

Can you name other not-so-famous but fine actors (or actresses)?

All Ain't Always What It Seems...

2011-11-14T19:42:00.000-08:00

Wow! Yet another "nice guy,"retired Penn State assistant football coach, Jerry Sandusky, faces allegations of sexually abusing eight "at-risk," boys (read: from low-income families) who were part of his The Second Mile sports program, which he devoted himself to after retirement.

According to Sandusky, he only "hugged," "horsed around after showers," and "touched their legs."

Now, it is not my place to pre-judge the coach; however, why are we always shocked when a successful man (or woman) is accused of wrongdoing. We are all human. We are all fallible. We are all capable of despicable behavior.

For example, we were loath to believe the sexual misdeeds of our leaders (e.g. former Pres. Bill Clinton, former U.S, Representative Anthony Weiner, D-NY, and former New York governor, David Paterson), who each admitted to misconduct while holding the most public of jobs.

Today, Herman Cain's wife, Gloria, said that her husband would have to have a "split personality" to have sexually harassed women as alleged. It wouldn't be the first time that the wife was the last to know.

I hope the allegations against Cain are untrue; it seems a shame that these charges will forever tarnish his reputation as a business man and community leader.

However, if they turn out to be true; don't be surprised.

Cainamania

2011-11-07T22:15:00.000-08:00

I don't get it.

How did Herman Cain jump to the front of the GOP's presidential candidates?

Before his name became a household word (for all the wrong reasons this week), the American public had not heard of him. Yet, Republicans have grabbed onto him as the next possible nominee for the presidency.

Really?

Would you vote for a man who

Breaks into "Amazing Grace" at a major news conference about allegations that he paid off several women who reported his sexual misconduct? (Today, one of those women went public.)
Says that China is a "military threat...trying to develop nuclear power."
Says that the person he admires most is Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, who weathered a similar storm of controversy that brewed after Anita Hill, his assistant at the Department of Education and EEOC, testified at a Senate confirmation hearings in 1991.
Got downright nasty with hordes of reporters trying question him about the allegations.
Has no political experience.
Promotes a tax plan under which everyone--from low-income families to millionaires--would pay at the same tax rate, 9 percent.

In the spirit of self-disclosure, I admit that I am a registered Democrat.

Pre-Herman Cain black presidential candidates

2011-10-31T16:47:00.000-07:00

With Herman Cain dipping his feet in the presidential nomination pool, the idea of another black candidate running for the Oval Office is headline news.

However, a quick review of American history reveals that as early as 1904 an African-American named George Edwin Taylor from Arkansas sought the presidential nomination for the National Liberty Party.

In fact, other African-Americans have sought nomination for or campaigned for the U. S. presidency representing major and minor political parties, including Black Panther Eldridge Cleaver (Peace and Freedom Party, 1964), NYC Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm (Democratic Party, 1972) ( People’s Party, 1976), Lenora Fulani (New Alliance Party, 1984), Jesse Jackson (Democratic Party, 1984, 1988) and (Alan Keys, Republican Party, 1992).

What’s ironic is that in Africa and most Caribbean countries a man of color as president is the norm.

Herman Cain: A (Bitter)Taste of the Limelight

With sexual harassment accusations dogging Herman Cain, he is getting his first taste of intense public scrutiny by the media. Truth or no, it places a cloud of suspicion over his presidential bid that might kill his chances.

Well, maybe not. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Norman weathered similar charges during his October 1991 nominaton hearings when former colleague, Anita Hill, alleged that he made inappropriate sexual remarks.

Despite her testimony, the Senate voted to confirm his nomination (by President George H.W. Bush) 52-48.

It makes you wonder...

2011-10-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

Case #1

Recently, I received three letters from the same department of an insurance company with the same date but different instructions about when to pay my back premiums.

First letter--Pay by 10/26/11
Second letter--Pay immediately
Third letter--Pay within 10 days of receipt of letter

Confused, I called the insurance company to ask which pay date I should honor. After fumbling for words, the customer rep put me on hold to check with a supervisor. When she returned, she advised (in a stern voice) that I pay before the 26th.

This major corporation, however, only accepts payments by mail or automatic withdrawal. No telephone or online payments. Go figure.

Case #2

A cousin of mine who had applied for early social security (at age 62) continues working fulltime. Consequently, she must stay within income guidelines established by the Social Security Administration or pay back a portion of benefits received.

During the past three months in different letters (some arriving on the same day), the SSA has informed her that:

1. She owes several thousand dollars which will be recouped by stopping her checks for a specified period of time.

2. She owes several thousand dollars and must pay immediately.

3. She will receive a check for a smaller amount the next month.

4. She is owed back money from SSA calculation error.

This week, she received another later stating that she will not receive checks for the next two months.

What happened to the "security" in Social Security?

Occupy Wall Street: Wimps No More

2011-10-17T06:07:00.000-07:00

U.S. suffragettes in the 1900s. Civil rights marchers in the sixties. Protestors at the World Trade Organization summit in Seattle in early 2000s.

Observers questioned these groups' motives, tactics, even their right to assemble, often labeling them misguided, disruptive of civic order, or “outside agitators.” Today’s Occupy Wall Street protestors face similar criticism.

Nonetheless, OWS protestors give a public face to Americans’ frustration at the ineptitude of state and federal governments and the perceived avarice of multinational corporations when addressing the nation’s financial crisises.

For example, in order to circumvent recent congressional legislation limiting onerous bank fees, some commercial banks introduced new “fees” (e.g. for debit card usage or previously “free” checking accounts) to make up for revenue shortfalls.

Nonetheless, certain media pundits argue that OWS protestors are not representative of groups that suffer the most economic hardship—low income and working families. Others say that OWS needs a coherent message—to galvanize public attention—or a credible spokesperson to articulate clearly their grievances.

Last week, on Bill Maher’s Real Time, guest P. J. O’Rourke, political satirist and journalist, asked, “What solutions do they offer?” Come on O’Rourke. Neither Washington nor Wall Street has long-term solutions for long-term problems that confront the nation—from curbing the deficit to creating jobs. Why should protest leaders have answers to complex economic issues?

Occupy Wall Street is slowly spreading to other parts of the nation…and the world. More citizens are expressing their discontent. Let us hope that this nascent movement grows large enough that those in public office or on corporate boards no longer consider us a nation of wimps.

Job Promises: easy to make; difficult to keep

2011-10-10T06:00:00.001-07:00

Most Republicans vying for the 2012 presidential nomination bash the Obama administration for failing to create jobs; they confidently promise to get unemployed Americans working again.

If reducing unemployment is so easy to accomplish, why no has prior administration (i.e. the Bush Administration) done so successfully?

Job growth occurs primarily in one of two ways: through private sector (small and large businesses) hiring or public works initiatives by the federal government.

Do Republicans have a secret weapon? If so, what is it?

Democrats also have failed to provide us with clear-cut explanations about their policies and plans to get America working again.

How exactly will President Obama’s billion-dollar jobs plan work? How many thousands of jobs can we expect it to generate? Who will be eligible for these jobs? What kinds of jobs will be created?

Republican primary candidates also need to answer hard questions about their plans for job creation.

Mostly, however elected officials give us slogans and sound bites.

The public needs substance—the how, what, and when of Democratic or Republican plans to create jobs.

On the other hand, the media and the public should demand concrete answers.

Will President Obama Get a Second Term?

2011-09-19T18:00:00.000-07:00

Why, I wonder, would President Obama campaign for a second term?

The sweet smell of success that surrounded his 2008 presidential campaign has turned to stink.

* His Gallup Poll approval rating hovers at 40 percent, the lowest of his term.

* Republicans have an almost pathological dislike of the man and his policies.

* The American public blames him for everything from increasing the deficit to pandering to corporate interests.

* Democrats have been slow to speak out in support of Presidential initiatives, and some consider him too conciliatory toward Republicans.

Who will comprise his voter base in 2010?

Independents? (Not a sure bet, according to some political analysts.)

African-Americans? (They have been eloquently silent throughout his term.)

Will I vote for him again? Probably so.

I do not support all of his policies, but on the other hand, Republicans seem eager to gut or veto any initiative that helps ordinary Americans.

New Directions...

2010-12-15T11:11:00.000-08:00

Since my first blog in 2008, I've posted opinions, pet peeves, and observations on topics from politics to celebrities, often with lapses in-between.

In October, I attended a day-long workshop---"Internet ACE: Online Self-Promotion"---with Greg Kompes (http://www.kompes/, writerpreneur, publisher http://www.fabulistflash.com/ and co-founder of Choice Publishing's Patchwork Path series http://www.patchworkpath.com/).

Greg emphasized the importance of posting regularly and providing content that serves my followers.

To that end, a major goal for 2011 is to reach families of inmates, provide them with relevant content, and direct traffic to my website: http://www.insideoutfamiliesofinmates.weebly.com/

Consequently, I'm considering shifting the focus of this blog. Stay tuned.

In the meantime, if you have a loved one in jail or prison, send e-mails about about your issues or concerns to wistajeannejohnson@gmail.com.

Random Ramblings

2010-09-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

A friend recently reminded me that I hadn't updated this blog. (Thanks for noticing.) However, if I don't feel the urge to express an opinion about a current event or issue, I don't.

Blogging is one aspect of my writing career, and I'm still working to develop a unique online presence.

Consequently, I experiment with different ways for using "The Written Word."

Hopefully, someday I will attract enough followers whose input will help keep it relevant and informative.

The idea for this blog popped into my head recently. So, here it is.

Things That Will Probably Never Happen...

TV political ads that offer a candidate's platform NOT merely attack an opponent with shrill accusations.

Credit card bills less than four-pages long;

Correspondence from corporations or government agencies written in plain English;

Telephone customer service reps who don't treat you like a two-year old;

Call-backs from companies that are "investigating" your problem or issue;

TV reality shows that don't feature heavily-made up girls and muscle-bound guys;

Websites that don't require you to register, sign-in, or view a promotional ad;

"Free" products or services that don't require a credit card;

President Obama getting recognition from Republicans (and increasingly, Democrats) for anything his administration has done;

Expensive premium channels that don't show the same (old) movies over and over again;

Conservative talk show hosts who express points of view without insults or shouting.

Got a minute? Why not share a few of your own?

Worse Prez, Yet...?

2010-08-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

Obama, the "worst president in history?"

So says Ben Quayle (Congressional candidate from Arizona), son of former VP Dan Quayle. Well, it has garnered his heretofore unknown campaign some attention.

As stated on this blog previously, President Obama ain't above criticism. But, there seems to be a movement afoot to bash anything Obama does or says.

He did not cause the nation's economic woes; they've been around more or less for many years. Just that some folks (read, middle-class) are beginning to feel the chill.

Likewise, his health care reform isn't scheduled to in kick for another year or two. Yet, Bill O'Reilly, a top FOX newscaster says it's led to increased premiums. Where's the evidence, sir?
http://mediamatters.org/blog/201008120001

The First Lady is not a spendthrift; her retailer of choice is J. Crew. Pricey, but not high end couture. Where are these fancy cars and clothes she's supposed to have?

Obama faces some of the most contentious and difficult problems of any president--wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, collapsing business giants, changing immigration policies, slow job growth, a disastrous oil spill, and countless international issues.

He's a novice on the world stage, but not an idiot. It seems that he considers issues carefully before making decisions.

Nor, is he a wuss vis a vis terrorists. America had pretty awful methods for getting tough with "enemy combatants" under Bush. Do we want a repeat of this?

History will judge his presidency.

Perhaps, in the future, we can better assess the good and bad of his tenure as the nation's first black president.

To Fantasia:

For a young girl from the other side of the tracks, you have accomplished much. I had the pleasure of seeing you in "The Color Purple" on Broadway and was surprised by how well you handled yourself.

You have a great gift. Hope your recent troubles are a springboard to a better future for you and your daughter.

Random Ramblings...

2010-06-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

Fame and fortune: Doesn't matter how high we climb, it's impossible to predict where we'll end up. Think Tiger, O.J., Heath, Chris B., or MJ. On the other hand, we should never give up hope that our fortunes can change for the better (if only temporarily, alas). Think Susan Boyle, Tyler Perry, Jennifer Hudson, or Fantasia. The lesson: Build our lives around things that mean more than fame or fortune--dreams, faith, family, and friends.

Baffling bureaucratic policies: I've had some experience with bureaucratic irrationality. After 9-11, NYC offered Medicaid and food stamps for all takers with virtually no paperwork. Normally, I wouldn't have qualified even with just a part-time teaching job. Nonetheless, I applied, and for six months I had medical coverage and food assistance. I received approximately $37.50 per week. At the end of the benefit period, I was encouraged to re-apply. I would have to complete a six- or seven-page application about every aspect of my life (and anybody who lived with me). Considering how much I'd receive (see above) and the fact that I'd have to go through this procedure every six months, I decided it wasn't worth it. I came away wondering, Why do recipients have to repeat all the paperwork every six months, rather than once a year (when they would merely attest that there's no change in their circumstances or report whatever changes have occurred--new address, birth of a child, work circumstances). Think of all the trees we could save. Green power!

Blessed are the rich is the societal mindset that leads to billion-dollar giveaways to corporate giants, while low-income families or persons with disabilities must jump through hoops for relatively little (or limited) assistance. Likewise, we shower celebrities (such as Oprah) and powerful people with free gifts and services; however, if you're homeless or poor, it's considered disgraceful to ask for help. In addition, when you do pay for something, you're likely to pay twice as much as others. Hmmm.

Just who's violent, anyway? Come on, folks. Let's stop paying lip service to non-violence--from bullying to killing--when every successful TV show--reality or otherwise--glorifies the use of force: "Dog the Bounty Hunter," "Operation Repo," "Jerry Springer," "Parking Wars," "Prisoners Out of Control," "E! Investigates: Rich Kids Who Kill," and "Most Shocking" (car chases, etc.). Unfortunately, violence is how nations and individuals solve problems. It's also what entertains us. Hence, the success of viral videos of teens beating each other up. I don't know the answer to promoting less violence, however, let's at least recognize our contribution to its pervasiveness.

"All-American John Wayne"? AMC is promoting a John Wayne movie marathon by describing him as an "All-American Icon." "What is an All-American?" Can someone be "Half-American," or "Part-American?" This is one of several terms frequently spouted by politicians and pundits that baffles me. Others are "patriot," "family values," "American values," and "true American hero." How does one qualify to be "all-American?"

Ugly American Politiks

2010-04-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

I am ashamed of how elected officials are running the country. The name of the game seems to be: say whatever it takes to discredit the other guy--mostly these days, President Obama. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/16/10-most-offensive-tea_par_n_187554.html

Needless to say, he shouldn't be above criticism. Yet, in a little over a year, he's been active on many fronts from pushing through the health care bill to promoting non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. Give the guy an "A" for effort.

He orchestrated a health summit, during which Republicans were testy and disgruntled.

Now gay activists are heckling him over the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy. They want him to honor a campaign promise to end it. I don't know all the details--much of what I hear on TV news isn't informative but so much bombast. Nonetheless, can't groups push their agendas without so much acrimony?

America extols free speech, diversity of opinion, fair exchange of ideas. But, more and more, national debates are rancorous, uninformative, and mean-spirited.

Despite hours of TV coverage, neither Democrats nor Republicans clearly explained their health care platforms. They merely made dire predictions about escalating costs, higher premiums, and government control over health choices.

Many people I speak to have no idea what "health care reform" really means. Even today, I' m not clear how or when my uninsured niece will get health coverage for her family.

I don't have much hope that public debate will improve. Our country--like the rest of the world--faces serious issues in the 21st century from the environmental to the economic.

Still, we can't seem to put the public good above special interests.

Help for Haiti

2010-01-19T17:24:00.000-08:00

For all the worse reasons, Haiti is in the news.

The recent earthquake has focused the world's attention on this small country that is the western third of the island, Hispaniola; the Dominican Republic makes up the other two-thirds.

As with many events that involve predominantly black countries, myths abound about the people and culture of Haiti. Despite the worldwide fame of stars, such as Wyclef Jean, most Americans know little about its history.

In fact, it was the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to gain independence, when the legendary Touissant L'Overture defeated British, Spanish, and French troops to emanicipate the slave population in 1804. http://www.hartford-hwp.com/archives/43a/

Movies and TV have depicted Haitian voudu (or voodoo, as its more commonly called) as dark and mysterious. In fact, it's a blend of religious worship originating in several West African countries transplanted to Haiti.

This week, Pat Robertson, chairman and founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network, http://www.cbn.com/700club added to the confusion by stating that Haitians had made "a pact with the devil," which led to the earthquake. (Mr. Robertson, how do you explain killer mudslides in China, tsunamis in Asia, or the World Trade Center devastation?)

Fortunately, the international community, celebrities, medical personnel, and relief organizations have rushed to meet the needs of the people without judgement. Relief aid is difficult to administer when the structures that housed government offices have been demolished and political leaders have no resources or places from which to govern.

Bereft of food and supplies, some have resorted to looting. Despite no police presence to protect innocent bystanders, let's hope order is restored soon.

Haitians outside of the country are helpless to reach or help their own. I learned this week that a friend lost her sister in the earthquake. Her family has no idea how it will arrange for services.

On the positive side, ordinary people (like my granddaughter) are donating five and ten dollars to the relief effort. This is the best response to tragedy: reach out to those in need without prejudice. http://www.icrc.org/

Looking Back: 2009

2009-12-28T03:40:00.000-08:00

In keeping with the spirit of reflection, here are some thoughts about events and people who made headlines in 2009.

Trashing of Barack Obama

The President of the United States is a public servant. Therefore, he's subject to scrutiny from supporters and opponents alike. But, during his first months in office, criticism of his policies and performance seemed to come fast and furious. Comments, from some quarters, seemed tinged with ridicule and racism. He could do no right. He was described as aloof, devious, wishy-washy, less charismatic (than on the campaign trail), un-American, and untrustworthy.

Political commentators, mostly conservative, assailed him for going on a date with Michelle, promoting "socialism," not stemming the loss of jobs, creating the bailout for corporations, waffling about sending troops to Afghanistan, pushing through a health care bill on the down-low, and not being presidential, and for getting (accepting?) the Nobel Peace Prize. It will be interesting to see how historians assess his presidency. My suggestion to the Prez: Keep doing what you and your advisers think best for the country.

Michael Jackson

We're a nation of addicts--for food, prescription drugs, alcohol, porn, "reality" TV, and violence in its many forms--from movies and video games.

Yet, revelations of Michael Jackson's use of drugs--for whatever reasons--seemed to bring out finger-pointers and head-shakers even before autopsy results were in.

Entertainment "news" shows featured pop commentators ( most of whom had no dealings with Michael) who reveled in expressing unfounded opinions.

Then, the City of Los Angeles, demanded that the Jackson family repay costs for the public memorial. Shouldn't this issue have been decided prior to assigning police and other personnel for that day?

Whatever his faults, Jackson has a worldwide fan base. His music continues to cross cultures and generations. Rest in peace, Michael.

A Star is Born

What a joy to see watch Gabourey "Gabe" Sidibe enjoy fame. She's got a bubbly personality and a dazzling smile. Most important, she defies all the stereotypes about fat, black women. Beauty comes in all sizes. And in a culture where thin-to-skinny women are idolized, it's a pleasure to see her hold her own.

Lady Michelle

Our First Lady continues to be popular with the American public. She's a fashion trend-setter, a hands-on mom, and active in a variety of causes, especially support for military families. She garners much positive publicity for the White House. Hail to the Lady-in-Chief!

Afghanistan War

Since my nephew is about to be deployed to Afghanistan, I've paid closer attention to the news accounts of what we face in that complex country. Our battles in this century involve fighting non-traditional enemies on foreign, often brutal, turf. Our effectiveness depends on a knowledge of countries and the cultures in addition to military might. Whatever it takes, let's hope our troops come home as scheduled. Not a sure thing according to some experts.

Health Care Debate

I've listened to both sides of the health care debate and am not impressed with how either opponents or proponents presented their cases. The plan (s) were discussed in terms that meant nothing to most of those I talked to. Both sides talked mostly about costs but offered no examples of how providing health insurance to the uninsured would raise (or maintain) premiums costs, harm (or preserve) doctor-patient relations, take away from (or leave intact) Medicare, increase (or decrease) costs for businesses.

There's been a lot of bombast and name-calling but no easy-to-understand explanation of each side's views. I hope Congress does pass a health care bill to provide a safety net for most Americans. Perhaps, the emphasis should be on preventive care as a way to contain medical costs.

About Gabe...and Me

2009-12-16T10:40:00.000-08:00

Go, Gabe!
Life couldn't be better for Gabourey "Gabe" Sidibe, one of the stars of the much-touted movie, "Precious" based on "Push" by Sapphire (more on this sister in a later blog).

In an electrifying novel, a black street girl, sixteen years old and pregnant, again, with her father's child, speaks. In a voice that shakes us by its language, its story, and its unflinching honesty, Precious Jones records her journey up from Harlem's lowest depths... For Precious, miraculously, hope appears and the world begins to open up when a courageous black woman - a teacher hellbent to teach - bullies, cajoles, and inspires her to learn to read, to define her own feelings and set them down in a diary: to discover the truth of her life.

Black women have many stories to tell.

We live in separate universes from black men and the rest of society. We are so busy holding our families together that taking care of ourselves is a luxury we don't think we can afford.

"Precious" reminds us that we have value--no matter how damaged, how overworked, how ignored, how out of shape, or how underpaid.

Congrats, Gabe on your Golden Globe nomination.

My Gratitude List

Despite not knowing who will ever read these words, I want to shout to the world all the things I'm grateful for:

My faith (weak at times, but enduring).

My children (Darryl, Dee Dee, "Pchez," and Damon (who give my life meaning).

My grandchildren and great grandchildren (who keep me involved in your lives).

My family (living and dead, whose love and support make my life possible).

My mom, "Grandma Kitty", who supports and encourages me in my endeavors

My sister, Terri, and niece Kimberly.

My gifts and talents (too numerous to mention--just joking!).

My ability to survive tough life situations.

Our President Barack Obama(who's breaking rules, dodging harsh critics, but staying the course).

Our First Lady Michelle (who's smashed the stereotypes about what black women can do).

My mental and physical health.

New (refurbished) goals for 2010.

Rose, a lifelong BFF.

My cats--Rani and Pom-Pom.

Having worked with and met talented and inspiring writers--Bob Collazo, Tom Robbins, Kai Wright, Julia Lobbia, Peter Noel, Dennis Moore, Jennifer Gonnerman, Kemba Johnson, Adamma Ince, Chisun Lee, Joanna Haugen, and countless others.

A sense of humor that helps me laugh at the realities of getting older.

I know that you have a gratitude list. Leave me a comment about what you're grateful for.

Anti-Social Services

2009-11-30T07:48:00.000-08:00

Personally and professionally, I've had occasion to deal with social services agencies in New York County and Clark County (Nevada).

There are similarities in how they handle applications and disburse public monies, which, too often, entail loss of clients' paperwork, rude or apathetic case workers, arbitrary (or incorrect decisions) about eligibility, and too-frequent re-certification (when all documentation is re-submitted).

Some examples:

While working as temporary case manager for a private shelter provider in New York City, I received a long list of numbers for welfare agency heads and personnel who, presumably, could provide quick access to information about policies and procedures. Ninety-nine percent of the time, I'd get a mailbox too full to accept messages, no answer, or routed to voice mail. Rarely, if ever, did anyone return my calls.
A pregnant mother of two hand-delivered an application, but later is informed that it's lost and she needs to re-file. Meanwhile, she's cut off from services.
Another mother with a sick newborn missed an appointment because of a NYC snowstorm. The worker asks if she took her baby to a doctor. She says,"no" because the weather had been too bad. Nonetheless, she's told to provide medical documentation. As case manager, I offered to vouch that she had been at the shelter with her child on the day in question. Not good enough. Without a doctor's note, she was cut off from services.
One NYC housing assistance program for homeless families (now defunct) required applicants to be on public assistance. One mother, a college graduate who worked, but who was in shelter because of domestic violence, balked at leaving her job and going on welfare. She was denied housing.

In addition to bureaucratic intransigence, social service offices generally are bereft of any decorative touches of warmth and send the message, "We don't think you're worth better."

Ironically, middle-class Americans, who oftentimes view welfare recipients as unwilling to work, uneducated, or opportunistic, eagerly accept government handouts for mortgage assistance and cash for "clunkers." They don't view themselves as taking advantage of the system but entitled to help.

What a difference a recession makes.

Random Ramblings

2009-11-18T03:57:00.000-08:00

Should We Be Afraid?

Remember the post-9/11 anthrax attacks of September and October 2001 that killed five Americans?

Well, according to investigative journalists, Bob Coen and Eric Nadler, co-authors of Dead Silence: Fear and Terror on the Anthrax Trail, the issue of an anthrax threat has not gone away, just gone unnoticed by the media and the public.

In the summer, of 2008, Bruce Ivins, a long-time civilian researcher at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRID) at Fort Detrick reportedly took an overdose of Tylenol with codeine. He died in the hospital two days later.

Eight days later, the FBI said that it had been about to arrest Ivins, the object of its seven-year investigation. Controversy ensued, with both Congress and scientists asking to see hard evidence of his guilt.

Therein, lies the basis for this book. It's a real eye-opener (and unnerving to learn how unregulated the sharing of biochemical products is among the world's scientists).

Coen and Nadler also probe the "mysterious deaths of some of the world's leading germ war scientists in the wake of 9/11."

Not a book for the fainthearted.

Hit the Ground Running

Time to cut the BS. Here are my professional goals for 2010:

Complete manuscript of my memoir Wind Beneath My Wings.
Get an agent or publisher.
Promote my new website for families of inmates--Inside/Out.
Get some (well-paying) writing gigs--both online and in print.
Rev up promotion efforts for various projects.
Work on two novels.
Create buzz around my blog(s).
Publicize myself.

Sarah Palin: Enough Already!

Sarah Palin is making millions--with her book deal--and garnering loads of media attention with no real political platform or ideology. Her M.O.? Take exception to what she views as the media's sexist characterization of her. Welcome to the club.

Hilary is too unemotional.
Michele shows too much arm.
Sonia (Sotomayor) isn't intellectually sharp.
Oprah's too fat.

The media made you, Sarah. So, don't bite the hands that are giving you lots of ink and cyberspace.

An Orwellian Moment

2009-11-11T15:19:00.000-08:00

This is not the blog I had intended to write.

However, an unnerving experience yesterday demonstrated the extent of personal information about me that a company I've never done business with has at its disposal.

I discovered this when I made a payment to Boost Mobile for my granddaughter. After confirming my home address and zip code, the rep says, "To ensure that you are who you say you are, I'd like to ask you two additional questions."

I provided the last four digits of my social security number. After a brief wait (while he retrieved data), he asked, "What is Baychester?"

I was taken aback. I had lived on Baychester Avenue more than 25 years ago! Next, he requested my birth month; I told him and finalized the transaction.

Afterwards, I wondered. Where the hell did he get that old information? I don't even think it's my credit report.

How many other corporations have access to my personal information? How easy might it be for employees of companies to use this information for identity theft or fraud?

This incident reminded me of a similar one several years ago. I was changing my telephone service, but wanted to keep old number. Before I could give the customer rep (for the new service) my phone number, she said, "Oh we have it listed here. We'll contact your old provider about the transfer of service." She knew my former company without me telling her.

Once when talking to an IRS agent on my cell phone, he cautioned me about proceeding because someone could tap into the signal and "capture" my personal data. I switched to a land line.

Another cause for concern: the Patriot Act allows the government to keep track of the books we borrow as well as monitor our e-mails.

Likewise, the federal government is considering a national identity card that would contain our pertinent information--social security number, DOB, address, height, weight etc. on it.

Needless to say, privacy is dead.

Mr. Orwell had it right. Big Brother (read: government and corporations) is watching us. And there's not much we can do about it.

Identity theft isn't the only threat we face; identity sharing is equally as frightening.

A Sad Week

2009-11-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

Condolences to:

Families of 12 military personnel and one civilian killed at Fort Hood in Killeen Texas.
Families of the 11 victims of Cleveland mass murderer Anthony Sowell.

Positively Negative

2009-10-26T07:25:00.000-07:00

I watched two authors this weekend with similar takes on what's wrong with America--best-selling author Barbara Ehrenreich (Bright-Sided: How the Relentless Promotion of Positive Thinking Has Undermined America) http://us.macmillan.com/brightsided and National Review columnist and contributing editor, John Derbyshire (We Are Doomed: Reclaiming Conservative Pessimism). http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=84846

Both Ehrenreich and Derbyshire (for different reasons, of course) oppose the think-good-thoughts-to-create-positive-change-in-the-world school of philosophy.

For example, Ehrenreich, who has been treated for breast cancer, criticizes the notions that being positive bolsters your immune system, that you need to embrace your disease, or that cancer is a "blessing."

The flip side, she says, presumes that if you are not positive, you can produce negative outcomes and that is your fault. This is a simplified version of her views (which also consider the effects of false positivity in business and politics).

The blurb for Derbyshire's book states that if "conservatives had retained their gloom, few would have been seduced by promises of hope and change, and Barack Obama would not have won the White House."

During the second half of Book TV, Derbyshire traded barbs with Alan Colmes, formerly of Fox News' "Hannity and Colmes." Derbyshire made disparaging comments about women, liberals, and immigrants (despite having a wife who is Chinese). He came off as arrogrant, and yes, gloomy.

I agree that thinking good thoughts alone won't help you accomplish goals. That takes planning, perseverance, and action.

However.....

There have been times in my life when having a positive attitude while coping with difficult challenges helped me get through them. In some cases, it was all I had. Facing reality can be a real bummer when all doors seem closed or when one's resources are limited.

I can think of several situations when fear, insecurity, or feelings of incompetence could have immobilized me. However, I would talk myself into a more positive frame of mind. In most instances, doing so made all the difference.

So Barbara and John, I respect your views, but can't give up the belief that what we think--positive or negative--affects how we feel, and consequently, what actions we take. Our thoughts can affect outcomes.

Random Ramblngs...

2009-10-22T15:34:00.000-07:00

"Slumdog Millionaire"

I finally viewed this 2009 winner of eight Oscars (best film, directing, music, editing, sound mixing, cinematography, and writing).

What I find surprising is that none of the three children--Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail, Ayush Mahesh Khedekar, and Pubina Ali--plucked from the Mumbai slums was even given a nod for their performances.

As first-time actors, these bright-eyed, disarming children are the real stars of the film. So, how come, no recognition, Hollywood?

Dev Patel, a young Indian actor, also deserved praise for his impressive acting range as love-obsessed Jamal K. Malik, the game show contestant.

I think it's a shame that neither Dev nor the children were honored for their contribution to the success of the film.

"Capitalism:" funny, sad, and serious

2009-10-12T05:56:00.000-07:00

My mother was eager to see "Capitalism: A Love Story" by her "man," filmmaker Michael Moore.

On the other hand, I was less keen about seeing his second-highest grossing film. I'd seen "Bowling for Columbine," "Fahrenheit 911," and "Sicko.

I was familiar Moore's tactic of publicly confronting corporate execs or elected officials to demand explanations for their actions.

Nonetheless, when I returned home, I called family members, urging them to see "Capitalism." It's funny, sad, and serious.

For MM-haters and critics: Name someone else who calls what Wall Street, large corporations, and politicians do (or allow)--mortgage meltdowns, job lay-offs, billion-dollar bailouts--a "crime"?

Scholars and political writers probably provide the same information in more erudite terms, but MM's documentaries demonstrate how government and corporate policies often negatively affect ordinary people.

The eye-opener for me was learning that some companies, including Wal-Mart and American Express, take out life insurance on employees (called "Dead Peasants" in internal documents) and receive thousands of dollars in payouts.

One widow with a young son is shocked to learn that her husband's employer received close to $2 million dollars after her spouse died.

The most heart-wrenching scenes involve a rural family forced out of their 40-year old farm/home because of increased mortgage payments that they could no longer afford.

The middle-aged father's frustration and helplessness are amplified when he's told that he has to move immediately; he believed that he had 30 days.

If nothing else, "Capitalism" will make you count your blessings.

Dental Insurance: Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

2009-10-05T21:01:00.000-07:00

My 85-year old mother pays $39.00 extra per month for a "deluxe rider" that enables her to get dental coverage. Okay. Thirty-nine dollars times 12 equals $468 per year. Humana contracts with another company to administer this plan. (This fact took me almost a month to find out).

For this she gets $1000 off dental services. Stay with me, now. Her bill for dentures was nearly $2000. She paid a $964 co-pay for a full upper and a partial lower, plus approximately $150 for two visits, all of which she paid in full.

Yesterday, was her final visit; as we're leaving with her shiny new dentures, the front desk clerk says Humana's dental provider won't pay for two extractions that were necessary for her dentures to fit properly. The cost: $154

If extractions, a routine procedure, aren't covered under her Medicare Advantage plan, what is? (A letter we received recently states: "Routine and Non-Routine dental services are not a covered benefit under your Medicare Advantage.")

The result: she has paid almost $1200 in addition to her monthly deluxe rider premium.

In an article "The Oral Cost Spiral," http://www.slate.com/id/2229637/ part of a series on dentistry in America for Slate.com, June Thomas writes:

"Still, most middle-class Americans—even those with health and dental insurance—tend to be more aware of the price of dental treatment because they're more likely to have to pull out their checkbooks when they visit the dentist. Although dental-insurance premiums remained relatively steady over the last decade, especially when compared with skyrocketing medical-insurance premiums, between 1998 and 2008 the increase in the cost of dental services exceeded that of medical care and far exceeded the overall rate of inflation."

A Soldier's Story...

2009-09-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

Staff Sgt. Evelyn Pollard, a Combat Medic and instructor, is completing a tour of duty in Iraq next month. She posted the following observations on her blog, "Queen of Everything."

We don't often hear from our female soldiers, so, I've posted her experiences and challenges in her own words:

http://evelynpollard.blogspot.com/2009/09/bye-iraq-it-was-fun.html

(P.S. She's also my granddaughter.)

Infomation or Information?

2009-09-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

My sister teases me about my near-obsession for researching any topic--from a sixties TV actor to the pitfalls of bank transfers.

I love the immediacy and availability of millions of pages of information. The task? Wade through them to find accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched data. No easy job. How can you determine who or what is a credible source?

Just as words take on importance on the printed page, web sources (including blogs) might be considered authoritative just because they're on the Internet.

According to free access advocates, the beauty of the web is that new voices can be heard. I agree to some extent; however, a source should have either the education, experience, or personal knowledge that lends weight to a viewpoint or assertion.

Better yet, seek multiple sources to broaden the scope of research or to uncover various aspects of complex issues or problems.

Otherwise, surf wisely and learn.

Just the Fax, Please

2009-09-15T06:40:00.000-07:00

I was in Office Max recently, and noticed a sign announcing:

"Local fax: $1.25 per page"
"Long distance fax: $1.75"

I wondered, why the cost was so high. Paper is cheap and the fax is sent for the price of a telephone call. Likewise, I'm sure that Office Max has unlimited local and long distance calling (and paper).

Shortly thereafter, a man wanted to fax some tax papers. He looked surprised when the clerk told him the price per page. Nonetheless, he handed over the small stack of papers.

"Let me estimate the cost for you," she said. She quickly calculated the cost for faxing 13 one-sided copies: $17.25.

Stunned into silence, the man gathered his papers and left without a word.

I remember when it was de rigueur to have a fax machine at home. However, with the advent of e-mails and attachments, fax machines became obsolete. Most are primarily in copy shops.

I'm not sure where the customer will go to get his documents faxed. On the job, perhaps?

But he seemed to agree that paying close to $20.00 for faxing was too much.

Have you had similar experiences with what seems like over-pricing? Leave your comments.

Liar, Liar, House on Fire...

2009-09-11T00:18:00.000-07:00

The uproar over Rep. Joe Wilson's outburst during President Obama's health care speech to Congress continues. And it should.

Wilson's behavior was disrespectful and unbecoming. Nonetheless, it is indicative of the ways that our Commander-in-Chief is maligned and put-down by some Republicans, right-wing organizations, and conservatives in media.

Wilson probably said publicly what many politicians and anti-Obama zealots have said or are saying behind closed doors. I can't shake the feeling that lots of powerful (white) men resent having to defer to the nation's (black) leader.

Despite public criticism of Wilson, I'm sure there was some fist-pumping around the country among those whose intention is make sure that Obama is a one-term president.

Behind Closed Doors: Michelle and Obama

2009-09-08T06:28:00.000-07:00

Michelle and Barack Obama are unlike any presidential couple this country has ever seen. And I'm not just referencing their color.

They seem like ordinary people who happen to be the President and First Lady. I would feel right at home in their company, talking and laughing with them about any number of topics.

They appear down-to-earth...and cool.

I can imagine the conversations that go on behind closed doors:

Michelle: Whew! Am I glad to be home.

Obama: Remind me again. Why did I take this job.?

Michelle: Because you wanted to make a difference. Be a different kind of politician.

Obama: Jeez, I'm trying my best to do things that matter--help community colleges, give health care to the uninsured, get gas-guzzling clunkers off the road, speak to kids as their President, offer incentives to companies that produce energy-efficient products and services.

Michelle: I know.

Obama: Instead, my ratings keep dropping...and worse, some folks seem thrilled by this.

Michelle: Sure do.

Obama: How about that Glenn Beck calling me racist? I'm biracial, with parents from two continents, have lived in Indonesia and Hawaii, and have done community organizing in economically-devastated sections of Chicago. Maybe, he meant that I don't like white people...my grandparents were white, dude.

Michelle: I don't understand why my outfits are the subject of such attention--my shorts (at Martha's Vineyard), my sweater (in Europe), my sleeveless dresses, my handbag. Don't Americans have more important things to worry about?

Obama::(Chuckles) Hey, I'm soft, haughty, inexperienced, and a closet-Muslim.

Michelle: Folks even criticized us for having dinner in NY. Think we should be chained to our desks.

Obama:I'd better push through as much of my agenda as I can. 'Cause, I don't think I'll get a second term.

Michele: You've had the country's top job; where do you go from here?

Obama: First, I'm going to have a burger and a smoke.

Michelle: I'll lose these pearls and slip into a sleeveless top and jeans.

Obama: Yeah.

Pet Peeves II

2009-08-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

"pet peeves" def. (mine) any situation or action that elicits swearing, mumbling, or scratching of the head

Here are ten that fit my criteria:

1. Progressive Insurance ads with frightfully cheerful actress Stephanie Courtney ("Flo"). Progressive, sell us insurance, not hype. I've yet to encounter a company that lives up to overblown commercial promises.

2. Reality TV shows so contrived that you wonder "What were they thinking?" Prime example: "Bridezilla." Are they for real? Will these bratty, money-grabbing brides-to-be survive married life?

3. Entertainment programs that masquerade as news programs with "special reports," expert guests, and exclusive interviews on important matters such as Jessica Simpson's weight, Michele Obama's wardrobe, or the "feud" between Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt.

4. Doctors' offices where a live person never answers the phone; it's always voice mail. The recording at my physician's office, for example, says "Please leave your name and number and we'll get back to you within 24-48 hours." What if I need to cancel an appointment for the same day? One day I was told, "This number does not accept messages." Huh?

5. Web sites that require you to sign-up when you only want information or to check out its services or products.

6. Cable companies that want you to pay for movies over one year old. You can get many oldies at the library for free. What's the rationale behind charging an additional $3.99 or $4.99 to see a movie anyway?

7. Special "discounts" that are only good when it's most inconvenient.("Monday to Friday until 4:00 p.m.") But, no Sundays or holidays when we're more likely to use them.

8. Companies that won't negotiate a payment plan. If someone can only afford to pay $100 or $200 on an $800 bill. What sense does it make to demand the full amount? Some reps are rude in the process. Hey guys, someone who doesn't intend to pay, won't call to make arrangements. Duh.

9. Customer service reps--at the same company--who provide conflicting information. When I called Humana Medicare's helpline (on behalf of my 85-year old mother) to get information about dental benefits, I was told: three different names for the subcontractor that administers the benefits, the names of three dentists who I found out did not accept the plan, she's not covered, she is covered, she has the wrong i.d. number, they have no record of her. It took close to one month (and about seven long telephone calls) to resolve things.

10. Fitness instructors more intent on showing off their form and bodies than paying attention to the rest of us who can barely keep up. Doesn't the latest fitness wisdom caution that you don't have to exercise to exhaustion to get results?

"Distortions" in Health Care Debate?

2009-08-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

Today's post is a follow-up to last week's blog "Can Obama Put the Care Back into Health?"

Link is to "Yahoo News": http://healthcarefactcheck.notlong.com.

Original article is from Associated Press (AP) by staff writer Charles Babington.

Here's an excerpt from "FACT CHECK: Distortions rife in health care debate."

Confusing claims and outright distortions have animated the national debate over changes in the health care system. Opponents of proposals by President Barack Obama and congressional Democrats falsely claim that government agents will force elderly people to discuss end-of-life wishes. Obama has played down the possibility that a health care overhaul would cause large numbers of people to change doctors and insurers.

Can Obama Put the Care Back in Health?

2009-07-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

I was once among the uninsured; the experience was scary and nerve-wracking.

Two factors dominated my thinking back then--the potential for running up a whopping medical bill and fear that a minor health ailment would morph into a major one. (Is that pain in my chest indigestion or something worse?)

My strategy: get creative about preventive services. Since, I'd worked as director for a health education program, I knew of the Healthy Women Partnership program at New York's Kings County Hospital Center

For several years, I obtained free mammograms, pap smears, and clinical breast exams at KCH's Women's Center.

I would attend health fairs to get screened for hypertension, blood sugar, TB, body mass index, or whatever else was offered.

Fortunately, I never needed follow-up care. What would I have done?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 43.6 million Americans are uninsured; they live with never-ending "what ifs?"

I know family and friends who suffer chronic pain, poor dental health, undiagnosed ailments, suspicious lumps, or untreated blood pressure or diabetes because they choose to pay rent or buy food rather than seek expensive medical treatment.

Some might use medications prescribed for another person or get drug samples from someone working in a hospital or a doctor's office. Shrewd choice or dangerous decision?

Many states offer coverage for children at low- or no-cost under a program funded jointly by the federal government and the states. Admirable, I say. But their parents might not have insurance. If they are the working poor, they can easily fall through the medical cracks.

Shouldn't family health be the goal? Healthy parents caring for healthy kids.

Michael Steele, chairman of the Republican National Committee, opposes Obama's plan because it smacks of "socialism."

A recent Huffington Post article reports:

Steele accused Obama of "experimenting" with America's health care, pursuing a government-dominated approach that would bankrupt the country without reforming the system.

Can Obama put the care back in health? I hope so.

We send millions of dollars around the world for food, medicine, and economic development; nonetheless, HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, domestic violence, obesity, and poor nutrition remain major health concerns for our country.

Americans understand the challenge of containing health care costs in the face of trillions of dollars of federal debt.

However, will a national health plan cost more than existing private health plans that, in addition to annual premiums, require co-pays for hospitalizations, specialists' referrals, doctors'fees, emergency care, specialty drugs, and dental services?

Critics who believe that the federal government will botch up the administration of a national health plan forget that Medicare and Medicaid currently contract out services through HMOs or other agencies--with mixed results in quality of care.

What's missing from the debate are alternative proposals to universal health coverage. Mostly, we hear rhetoric and bombast from naysayers rather than substantive alternatives.

Democrats and Republicans should set aside partisan politics and give Americans what they want: peace of mind and access to health care.

I suspect that most opponents to national health insurance have coverage.

Let's spread the access.

Random Ramblings

2009-07-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

Social Networks: All-a-Twitter

I blog (intermittently). I tweet (occasionally). I have a (neglected) MySpace page. I belong to Hoverspot.com. I'm a "Writer's Block" member at Essence.com.

This week, a fellow writer referred me to shewrites.com, a social networking site for women writers.

At a recent meeting of our women writers group, two--younger--members promoted social networking for sharing resources, interacting with others who have similar interests or needs, posting and promoting one's work, locating professional and personal sources of information.

I get that. But, I'll be darned if I can figure out how to use links, feeds, tweets to my advantage. Equally frustrating is the time it takes to teach myself.

Depending on skill, I understand that one can have followings of tens or thousands. (I heard that Oprah has 30 million followers on Twitter.)

I'm reading What Would Google Do? by Jeff Jarvis, who, according to the book jacket, "writes the Web's most popular and respected blogs about the internet and media." Check out Buzzmachine.com. Jarvis explains the relevance of linking and how it has changed how we receive and disseminate information, news, and ideas.

Are you struggling in the Brave New World of social networking? If so, drop a tweet to ChatChik at Twitter.com.

Or, leave a comment here about your success, or lack thereof, with social networks.

First Annual Awesome Women Awards (AWA)

2009-04-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the First Annual Awesome Women Awards (AWA), honoring Everyday Women, who pursue their dreams and passions with courage and dedication despite family obligations, personal challenges, and limited or no capital.These women "make a way out of no way" for themselves and their families.

Their talents range from writing to animal training. Most, but not all, are in their twenties.You might not see them on Oprah, CNN, Tyra, or Inside Edition (yet). Nonetheless, every day they make a difference in the lives of those around them. Here are this year's honorees:

Sgt. Evelyn Pollard, (U.S. Army, Iraq) wife, mother, soldier, Combat Life Saver instructor, writer, and avid reader

Dionna Phillips (Yonkers, NY) wife, mother of three, foster mother of one, entrepreneur, and founder of "Special Moments," (a non-profit organization that promotes events for mothers and their children), dreamer, and creative force

Erica Moyler (NYC) mother, fashion designer co-partner in Fabric Twins, (who create and wear different designs made from the same fabric) singer, entrepreneur, and visionary

Amour Staggers (NYC) actress, film buff, aspiring playwright, raconteur and adventurer (www.bougiebohemian.blogspot.com)

Erika Washington, (Las Vegas) wife, mother, writer, knitter, and "blogger extraordinaire"(www.erikawashington.blogspot.com)

Cathe B. Jones (Las Vegas) writer, artist, comedian, graphic novelist, musician, animal trainer, founder of Las Vegas Quill Keepers (a support and resource group for women writers) and a powerhouse of information on using technology and social networking to promote one's writings, ventures, or ideas.(www.cathejones.com)

Diahann Moyler (NYC) mother of four, grandmother of three, dedicated occupational therapy practitioner, aspiring author, event planner par excellence, and lover of life

Denise Moyler (NYC), mother of seven, grandmother of three, beloved sister and daughter, fun-lover, and future college grad

T. Rose Smith (NYC) founder and executive director of The Development and Finishing Institute (that teaches manners and etiquette to girls and young women of color), publisher, entrepreneur, writer, and world traveler (www.thedfinstitute.com)

If you know an Awesome Woman, leave a brief comment about her.

Stay focused.

AWESOME WOMEN POSTS BY "WRITTEN WORD" VISITORS:

Natasha Jarvis (NYC) friend, mother, entrepreneur, aspiring designer, and fierce business woman. (posted by Miss Amour)

Trinessa Brown (Yonkers, NY) intelligent, phenomenal friend, and hardworking mother of three. (posted by Sassy)

Bernice Sandoval (NYC) wife, mother of four, stepmother of one, student, entrepreneur, owner of Wynn Optics in Harlem, NY (posted by peadiva@aim)

Working the Muse: Plots and Plans

2009-04-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

I love writing!

Even when working as an editor for various magazines or newspapers, my passion was for reporting/writing.

Presently, I have three books, at various stages, ready to be born. The first is a memoir about the relationship between me and my son--who died in prison--during his 19 years of incarceration. It's six chapters from completion. (I'm seeking an agent or publisher.)

The second is a docu-novel based on the life of Dr. J. Marion Sims, a 19th century surgeon, who performed experimental surgery on several slave women to perfect a surgical procedure for a condition called vesico-vaginal fistula. I have read his memoir and researched the medical procedure he describes.

The third book is a medical thriller, set in a major urban hospital, where doctors are testing an experimental drug on un-informed low-income women who are patients at its clinic.

In additon, I'm working on three pieces for a 2009 anthology published by Las Vegas Quill Keepers (www.lasvegasquillkeepers.com), a support and resource group for women writers in the Valley. I've been a member for over a year.

Cathe Jones, founder of LVQK, writer, comedian, artist, musician, animal trainer, and graphic novelist (twitter.com/ratmando/www.cathejones.com), provides invaluable information on book and magazine writing, publishing, editing, book proposals, queries, and social networking.

As member of a LVQK sub-group, Quill Kids, I'm reviewing children's books to learn the do's and don'ts of writing for various age groups. My forthcoming children's book is tenatatively titled, Mali Starr, Big City Dog.

My publishing plans include a booklet, 30 Days of Minute Meditations and revising and updating a reference for adult education instructors, Teaching Health and Wellness in the ABE/ESL Classroom, A Guide for Teachers.

Despite having considerable experience as a journalist (Food and Wine Magazine, Essence, The Village Voice, Black Enterprise, Newsweek) and freelancer, I have had only two articles published in one Vegas publication, Fun&Fit. Since, I'm relatively new to the Vegas writing scene, I intend to do more networking at local writers' functions and blitz local publications with queries.

Likewise, I plan to utilize "The Writers Block," an online writers chat group (www.essence.com) as another promotional platform and resource.

Although, I enjoy my day gig as an adult educator, it doesn't provide the satisfaction and excitement of writing. So, stay tuned as I pursue my various ventures and provide updates on my writing/publishing accomplishments.

Stay focused!

Mr. Prez and the Media

2009-03-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

As stated in my last blog, I still cannot watch media pundits pick apart our new President. I know that he cannot be shielded from critics on the Left, the Right, and in-between.

Nonetheless, I cringe when I hear conspiracy theorists claim that members of his administration are part of "a shadowy, elitist cabal (the Bilderberger group) intent on installing a one-world government that subverts the will of the American people." (Bilderberger conferences are held around the world and includes leaders of business, media, and politics. )

Other rumors about and criticisms of Obama:

He's a closet Muslim
He wants to over-inflate size of the federal government.
He shouldn't have spent time away from the White House during a time of crisis to appear on Jay Leno's late-night talk show.
He's idealistic and unrealistic in his plans for education, health, and government reform.
He knew about the AIG super bonuses OR he should have known.
His administration's Homeland Security policies will make America less safe.
Closing Guantanamo Bay will allow anti-American extremists loose in the world.
His outreach to Iran isn't likely to reap substantive changes in Iran-U.S. relations.

He definitely unlike any president I've ever seen in my lifetime. He's easygoing (at least in public), articulate, funny, and seems to relate to and seek out ordinary Americans.

Leaving Washington to hold Town Meetings is a brilliant strategy. Cut out the middle men--the media--who more and more provide news with definite biases or political leanings.

Likewise, he's a product of the Technological Age and easily uses technology and social networking to stay connected to supporters.

I don't know what Obama's legacy will be or if America will elect him to a second term. I just know it's refreshing to have someone at the table who resembles me--and I don't mean just racially. He seems to love common folk and is genuinely interested in making a better life for those with no access to or ties with power brokers in Washington and on Wall Street.

Obama Drama: Addressing Congress

2009-02-24T20:16:00.000-08:00

I have no credentials or special expertise to assess the specifics of President Obama's economic- recovery speech. However, I am a voting American and a big fan of the Prez. Thus, I'm entitled to give my take on its effectiveness.

Watching President Obama address Congress, the Supreme Court Justices, military brass, and others gathered in those hallowed halls, I marveled at his ability to deliver a speech (seemingly without a prompter) without stumbling over words or ideas. I cannot recall another President who has spoken so eloquently or sincerely about the ties that bind us as nation and the divisions that keep us separate--racially, economically, and politically. Still I flinch whenever Obama gives a speech or answers questions at a White House news conference. I feel like a mother watching her favorite son perform before the school assembly. I so want him to succeed.

I can't shake the feeling that Obama is a sheep among wolves. Despite his enormous popularity at home and abroad, I believe that many in this country with a stake in the status quo eagerly await (or are plotting) his downfall, perhaps, even his demise. It's obvious to me that Senator John McCain is planning his 2012 presidential bid. This week he lambasted Obama over a fleet of Marine One helicopters being built at a cost of $11.2 billion. (I imagine the deal for this was arranged and approved before Obama took office.) During tonight's address, whenever the camera panned on McCain, he looked downright lockjawed.

During follow-up analysis by CNN, ABC, and FOX, Obama was accused of speaking out of both sides of his mouth, making unrealistic promises, not providing specifics, sounding "presidential," and being Pollyanish about how much he can in accomplish with Republicans almost totally against his stimulus packaage.

Among political pundits, I admire most ABC's George Stephanopoulos; he is straightforward but, fair-minded when reporting on the Obama presidency. He tackles hard issues without tearing down the President.

I give President Obama an "A" for his effort at galvanizing the nation around his agenda; but he gets a "B" for promising too much--like cutting half of the federal deficit by the end of his term or making bold, but unlikely, assertions on reforms in health care, tax cuts to the wealthy, higher education, and government accountability.

It could be that Obama is too much for our country. We are so used to not having hope that words to the contrary seem hollow and superficial. I hope that time will work in Mr. Obama's favor and that he will not become The One-Term Black President.

Random Ramblings

2008-12-22T15:39:00.000-08:00

Resolutions: 2009

Making new year resolutions isn't all that original. However, we humans have a need to mark the passage of time (even though there's some evidence that it's a construct and doesn't actually exist) and to steer our lives toward specific outcomes.

Hence the annual lists of Do's and Don'ts written each December. (January is a new year. Isn't it?)

In honor of this tradition, here is my ONE resolution: To cultivate the traits of Gratefulness and Generosity. That's it. I can assure you that this won't be as easy to accomplish as it sounds.

When one has spent a lifetime worrying or complaining about what she doesn't have, it is a major shift to emphasize my numerous blessings (children and grands; a funny, adorable mom; three sweet sisters; varied talents and abilities; a job I like; a loving extended family; good health; a sense of humor; a love for adventure; long-term friendships; new friends; a new start in Las Vegas; publishing my first article locally; and just being alive)

No, mindless repetition of "Thank You's." I intend to express heartfelt appreciation for whatever good comes my way, as often as possible, and to give GENEROUSLY without expectation of return or reward.

Obama Watching

It's just about a month to the Inauguration (January 20) with all its pomp and circumstance. The First Couple is so fashionable that I can't wait to see what they will be wearing. Michelle is so not like the stereotype of black women that America has fostered. She's stylish and sexy. Barack has the ideal frame to look sleek in a finely tailored suit. Watch out Washington, here they come!

I still have to pinch myself when I see photos of Barack Obama, president-elect! America has never seen a president like this before. For example, his interviews with Michelle show a couple who appear just like the husbands and wives I know. A bit of teasing here. A friendly verbal jab. In a recent interview with Barbara Walters, Michelle and Barack were almost flirtatious, holding hands and leaning into each other. I've never seen Bush or Clinton or any other prez so intimate with their wife. Lets' hope the Obamas' marriage holds up under the hard scrutiny of the American public.

The sniping of the new President has begun. He's got a false birth certificate; His staff might have had some part in selling his Congressional seat; He's filling key posts with former Clinton appointees; He needs to get a plan for Universal Health Care; He's got to get on top of environmental issues now; He must stop the bleeding of jobs; He should effectively fight terrororism while ending wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Is his hair getting grayer by the week? Or is it my imagination. Hummm?

I've heard some comments that Obama might be the role model for some black men who are guilty of less than responsible behavior towards their families. I suspect that the type of guy who needs encouragement to Do the Right Thing isn't likely to change because the face in the White House looks more like his. Nuff said.

What's this about the President Bush not being able to allow the Obamas into the White House in time for their kids to go to school? It seems like a presidential slap in the face. I know, the Bushes had not expected them to want to move in earlier. But sending them to a hotel? Come on. Can you imagine if the shoe was on the other foot? There'd be calls for the Obamas to do something to accommodate the new President. Am I being too sensitive? Perhaps. But it just seems wrong.

Celebrity Sniping

Have you noticed that sooner or later, even the biggest celebrities get the KISS OFF from fans and media?

Here's my list of biggies in show biz who, according to critics, can do no right:

Tom Cruise--a buffoon (after his couch-jumping on "The Oprah Winfrey Show") and Scientology zealot.

Madonna--a middle-age has-been making headlines by adopting an African child.

Will Smith--a fan favorite, but seldom gets kudos from film critics who consider him merely an "action" star

Beyonce--over exposed and repeating the same dance moves in her videos

Jim Carrey--former multi-million dollar man who seems to play the same character over and over.

Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro--living off their reputations as actors' actors.

Oprah--fat again! My goodness.

Christian Bale--overlooked as a serious actor and ridiculed for the voice he used as Batman in "The Dark Knight."

Lest there be some confusion. These are not my views. Just want to alert "wanna-be celebrities" that the media and the public can turn on you like a pissed off pit bull.

See ya next time. Keep Focused!

Great Expectations: An Obama Presidency

2008-10-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

Election Day is upon us. (For those of us in Nevada, early voting began last weekend.) Like many Americans, I am thoroughly fed up with the presidential campaign. The tactics, mostly from the McCain camp in my view, have been ugly and unbecoming.

I've watched as Senator John McCain and Alaska governor, Sarah Palin, have made derogatory remarks about Obama's capabilities and readiness to govern America. They've wrapped themselves in the American flag, thereby, making it appear that Republicans have the market on patriotism. (At one venue, the crowd, following Palin's lead, chanted, "America, America, America.") What's that all about? Is the implication that Obama is anti-American?

There've been accusations that an Obama presidency would threaten American "values," capitalism, the economic status quo, and, in general, the accepted order of things. Well, let's hope so! What foreign policy credentials did Dubya have when he took office? What political experience did Arnold Schwarzenegger bring to the position of governor of California? Jesse "The Body" Ventura, former pro-wrestler and governor of Minnesota, had just four-years experience as mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.

What training is there for the American presidency? With much of the world enduring economic recessions (while experts disagree on the causes) and volatile political conditions existing in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, who can predict where the winds of crisis will blow next? Not McCain. Not Obama. The Presidency is not a one-man show. Decisions are arrived at after input from the Cabinet, Congress, special interests, and the public. Presidents rely on the expertise of close advisors as well as myriad federal agencies--from the CIA to the NSA.

So, Obama-haters, give us a break. It's ridiculous to suggest that his presidency will bring about radical or fundamental changes in the way government is run. At best, he will use his influence as The Chief to promote legislation or initiatives--from healthcare reform to tax revisions--that foster the Democratic platform.

If anything, Obama will be closely scrutinized by all sides as The First in any position generally is. He must prove that he has the qualifications, judgment, and leadership ability to guide America though its financial crisis. Black Americans, white Americans, Republicans, Democrats, Congress, Wall Street, and various private and public entities all have different expectations of him. I'm sure he will disappoint some or all of them. That's the nature of politics.

As president, his life might even be in danger. But that's a possibility too awful to consider. Let's hope that if Obama is elected, our country will rally behind him and make America truly the land of free and the home of the brave.

The Would-Be President's Lady

2008-09-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

I can't keep quiet about Michele Obama any longer. First, I want to make one thing clear. She doesn't have my admiration because she's black . I respect her because she's an accomplished lawyer, an equal partner to her husband, and a caring, protective mother; she projects a well-developed sense of self.

When she appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show prior to the primary, she pointed out that she has her own fulfilling career, and she's not merely a prop for her politician-husband, Barack Obama. She explained that she and Barack made the decision to step onto the national stage after prolonged discussion. A major drawback was the idea of exposing their family to intensive media scrutiny. They had reason for concern.

One highly-publicized comment prompted an immediate outcry. Speaking to a crowd in Milwaukee, Michele said, “…hope is making a comeback…for the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country. And not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change. And I have been desperate to see our country moving in that direction and just not feeling so alone in my frustration and disappointment.”

The media and Republicans lashed out at her, decrying her words as unpatriotic. Later, a Nevada radio talk show host said of her keynote address at the Democratic convention that America was shown a “new Michele Obama,” and that her image had been “photo-shopped.” Who, I wonder, do they imagine the “real” Michele is? Do they honestly believe that this daughter of America hates her country? It would have been refreshing for some journalist to engage her in a frank exchange about her comments. Instead, she’s been lambasted as un-American for exercising her Constitutional right to free expression.

Countless African-Americans, from all economic strata, share her “frustration and disappointment” in the face complex, long-standing social and economic problems that beset our communities. Among these, but not limited to, are disparities in access to and quality of health care. For example, the black infant mortality rate is twice that of white infants; the HIV/AIDS death rate is more than seven times that for whites; and black women have higher cancer death rates.

Any politician--or presidential candidate’s wife--who, however mildly, expresses dismay or dissatisfaction over issues affecting black constituents is deemed a polarizer; hence, meaningful discourse is quashed or dismissed with a big "Ho-Hum."

Michele Obama projects an image--well-groomed, upbeat, and articulate--that should be non-threatening to voters. With so much at stake, she can‘t afford not to. But I predict that if she becomes First Lady, she will surprise us all by her outspokenness and advocacy on behalf of all Americans.

(This blog was started when the Obama campaign was in full swing, shortly after the Democratic National Convention and pre-Sarah Palin. Hopefully, Senator Obama can reinvigorate his bid for the Presidency and bring a fresh perspective to the White House.)

Pet Peeves #1

2008-08-24T19:05:00.001-07:00

My family frequently teases me about my pet peeves; they number in the hundreds! They joke that one day I'll have enough to fill a book. So, in an effort, to "go green," I will blog them instead. Please feel free to add your own.

Muscle-thick guys or waist-thin gals who strut around the gym, sipping from water bottles, trying to look nonchalant, but hoping everyone is noticing their glorious abs or pecs.

TV commercials for health clubs or fitness products that feature models who bear no resemblance to the people--of all sizes--that they are targeting.

Folks--Wal-Mart greeters, supermarket clerks, receptionists, waitresses--who drop their cheery smiles when dealing with a black person.

Websites that require tones of personal info or want you to sign up for promos from advertisers before you can get that "free" gift card, laptop, or dinner for two.

Doctors who are never around to discuss the status of or answer questions about a hospitalized relative or spouse AND nurses who resent you for asking questions that they cannot answer.

Men who ask, "Why doesn't a pretty woman like you have a man?" Implicaton: I have an answer to that question OR that something must be wrong with me. Boring.

Public schools with metal detectors.

Reality shows with people/celebrities who I could care less about. My definition of reality: What actually happens when you had expected something else (good or better) to happen. Get quite enough of that in my own life, thank you.

Adults who are outraged when a kid's pants are sagging down over his butt; but, they are speechless on issues such as high dropout rates, drastic cuts in financial aid for college-bound youth, a much-reduced, federally-funded summer jobs programs for unemployed youth, or countless other Really Important matters affecting young Americans.

Network or cable TV shows that never feature an African American, Asian, Hispanic, or "others" in lead roles. (Supporting roles don't count.)

Well, that's enough for now.

Wow. It's really liberating to get these peeves off my chest, er breasts. Until next time...

This Writer's Life

2008-08-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

First, let me point out that no matter what jobs I've held--from HIV educator to adult education instructor--my primary identity, at least to my mind, is Writer. Having read several books on the art and business of writing, I've learned that "serious" writers take their writing seriously!

Contrasting my writing habits with those of other well-known writers, I sometimes feel less than authentic. My writing "schedule" shifts with the demands on my time or my fatigue level. I've felt most like a real writer when working for a newspaper or magazine. Since I haven't worked full time for either since 2001, the pressure to produce is less urgent. It's not that I lack projects; indeed, there are several that have awaited completion for several years. Nor, am I lazy and uncommitted. The best part of my life is when I'm selecting from among thousands of words in my head to create language that persuades or explains. I love writing.

So, why is it so difficult to consistently produce? Why do I value what others might assign me over my original ideas? Is it necessary to emulate writers who (can afford to) spend five to eight hours daily perfecting their craft? I am still searching for answers to these questions.

Several years ago, I read, How I Wrote Jubilee , an essay by writer Margaret Walker in which she explains why her book took 30 years to complete. Between teaching and other obligations, she confesses that she often couldn't find time to write. She's describes herself as a "slow" writer.

I am reading, Stephen King's book, On Writing, which has helped me to understand that my writing is a priority. I haven't earned a dime from writing in seven years. Nonetheless, what's important is to write, write, write. And so, I will, ignoring the voice in my head that taunts me at every turn. "You"ve been out of the writing world for too long." "You'll never find a publisher for your book." "

Since joining Las Vegas Quill Keepers, a writing group for women, I've learned that writers, especially women, often hear that critical voice--after several rejection letters or when someone critiques your work, or when friends and family fail to take your work seriously.

Black women have many untold stories to tell. We need to be about doing that no matter what. I give myself permission to tell my story in my own way, at my own pace, and on my own terms.

Random Ramblings

2008-08-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye Bernie

I seldom watched the Peabody Award-winning "Bernie Mac" show on Fox Television. But, when I did, I considered the format brilliant. Bernie Mac, producer and star, depicts his efforts to be a responsible parent.

The basis for the show is Bernie's reluctant decision to raise his sister's three children after she checks into rehab. He was always real. For example, he would lean into the camera and express his desire to smack some sense into his sulky teenage niece or his adolescent nephew. I can relate!

Bernie's dilemma is how to (or whether to) modify his "grass roots" child rearing to suit his middle class status. He often finds himself at odds with or defending his parenting style to (usually, white) school officials and teachers, parents, and others.

I Ain't Scared of You (Pocket Books/MTV Network 2001), a memoir of Bernie's early upbringing and career, is caustic, irreverent, and filled with profanity. But, it is so funny that while reading it, I'd find myself laughing out loud in public.

In his film career, I don't think that Bernie ever found the best venue for his talent. After all, Hollywood isn't about breaking new ground. Still, he is among those rare actors whose name can draw me to a movie despite any qualms about its merits.

Most recently, Bernie was heckled at a Barack Obama fundraiser for what some considered off-color remarks. No doubt, they were; but does anybody remember Stephen Colbert's scathing roast of George W. Bush at the White House Correspondents' Association's Dinner in 2006? Critics charged that the Comedy Central star had "crossed the line."

Well, duh, that's what comedians do. Throughout their careers, George Carlin, Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce, and Dick Gregory pushed the limit of what's appropriate, "politically correct," or socially acceptable.

Bernie's premature death at 50 robs us of a comedy giant whose delivery was loud and abrasive, but so reminiscent of the humor in my own family--down to earth, truth-telling, and brilliant.

Edwardian Error

Like millions of Americans, I was surprised, yet not shocked, when John Edwards, former senator and Democratic presidential candidate with dark good looks and squeaky-clean image, admitted that he'd cheated on his wife. His extramarital affair is the latest among politicos whose private lives have become public: New York State's former governor, Eliot Spitzer, and his predecessor Basil Patterson. Some pundits argue that public servants should not be judged harshly because, after all, they are "just human."

Others believe that voters have a right to expect officeholders to, at the very least, be honest about lapses in judgement when asked. Edwards denied and denied. I am divided about my reactions. I do understand stone throwing. However, I empathize with Elizabeth, his wife of 31 years, battling cancer and facing humiliation in the national spotlight.

Recently someone in my own family found out about an infidelity. So, I know firsthand, how it can rip the heart out of a marriage. No amount of verbal remorse can easily repair the ripped fabric of trust. Marital dreams suffocate under questions of "why?" The idea of an "us" crumbles. Of course, many marriages can survive such betrayal, and I hope the Edwards' union can be healed.

On his website, Edwards says: "...we have a moral responsibility to each other and what we do together matters. We must do better if we want to live up to the great promise of this country." The same could be said of his marriage.

Entering the Blogsphere

2008-08-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

Well, here I am a wayfarer in the Blogsphere, a place I hesitated to enter for fear of not being able to handle the technospeak and technicalities of blogging.

But, thanks to encouragement and support from Cathe Jones, founder and enforcer of Quill Keepers, Las Vegas, a writing group/resource for women writers in Vegas, my granddaughers--Amour, former blogger and aspiring actress and Evie, a medic serving in Iraq--and fellow writers Erika Washington and JoAnna Haugen, here I am--excited and hopeful that my words and experiences will reach those--writers or otherwise, striving to find a place and a voice in America.

I make no claims to profundity or wittiness, just hope to add to thoughtful discourse about many issues that affect all of us--young or old, immigrant or citizen, male or female, rich or poor, celebrity or commonfolk, homeless or helpless...I invite you to check back and add your comments. Until next time...hold fast to your dreams!