Lists. End of the year lists have become American. American in the sense that we can expect lists from our favorite channel, talk show host and best week ever repeats.
YTD, no list is as invoking of intelligent discussion as the Sidney Awards courtesy of David Brooks.
Articles that force the nerve of partisanship polarization to react in kind creating a humbling experience for readers.
I urge all of my 4 readers to enjoy and comment.
Sidney Awards
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
Keep it Holy son
PC really confuses me. Free speech and the topics.....
Forget it.
Forget it.
At least try to keep it Holy, please.
Friday, December 14, 2007
No to Universal Healthcare...
Often we like to think of what we are entitled to as Americans. In fact, we even take them for granted. Education, public safety the list goes on. Is the power to enhance and sustain these freedoms through the big brother mentality?
I argue it is not. Now, I could easily dictate contemporary political thought on the subject explaining what is freedom, how it operates amongst fellow man. But why? When we could all just listen to Kansas.
As mentioned in earlier posts, please delight in the fiddle, but then take a step back and think of what it means to be free. When freedom is words and nothing more. Election season reminds us of this empty rhetoric does it not?
That we ultimately have come to expect freedoms handed to us, as argued by a hippie friend of mine, "It's like a big government cookie jar, and we can grab from it for personal use."
Well hippie friend, I disagree. The nation finds itself in quite the predicament. Protecting the freedoms or increasing the handouts. Securing freedom in the tradition of our founding fathers would in effect limit the cookie jar handouts.
I have to say, this take selfish mentality is proving to be costly and ineffective. Could one say the government cookie jar is responsible for protecting the contents of the cookie jar, if that is in effect the "freedom bowl".
Then what do we do hippie friend. Let another man determine what is a freedom and what constitutes a cookie jar freedom?
Principality Clothing is against universal health care for this same purpose.Currently, 15% are uninsured. So 15% constitutes a transformative policy measure that would collapse the present structure of insurance, healthcare and the competitive features of this practice?
Furthermore, the declaration of health insurance as a civil or human right is unnecessary. God determines the human, the state determines the civil and the electorate votes for legislators as to how policies that protect and preserve freedom are implemented.
The same hippie tactics that kills babies is constantly overlooked when deciding governments role in our lives.
Choice. The lack of which, will continue to grant elites power in determining legislation.
Delight in the fiddle Baby.
I argue it is not. Now, I could easily dictate contemporary political thought on the subject explaining what is freedom, how it operates amongst fellow man. But why? When we could all just listen to Kansas.
As mentioned in earlier posts, please delight in the fiddle, but then take a step back and think of what it means to be free. When freedom is words and nothing more. Election season reminds us of this empty rhetoric does it not?
That we ultimately have come to expect freedoms handed to us, as argued by a hippie friend of mine, "It's like a big government cookie jar, and we can grab from it for personal use."
Well hippie friend, I disagree. The nation finds itself in quite the predicament. Protecting the freedoms or increasing the handouts. Securing freedom in the tradition of our founding fathers would in effect limit the cookie jar handouts.
I have to say, this take selfish mentality is proving to be costly and ineffective. Could one say the government cookie jar is responsible for protecting the contents of the cookie jar, if that is in effect the "freedom bowl".
Then what do we do hippie friend. Let another man determine what is a freedom and what constitutes a cookie jar freedom?
Principality Clothing is against universal health care for this same purpose.Currently, 15% are uninsured. So 15% constitutes a transformative policy measure that would collapse the present structure of insurance, healthcare and the competitive features of this practice?
Furthermore, the declaration of health insurance as a civil or human right is unnecessary. God determines the human, the state determines the civil and the electorate votes for legislators as to how policies that protect and preserve freedom are implemented.
The same hippie tactics that kills babies is constantly overlooked when deciding governments role in our lives.
Choice. The lack of which, will continue to grant elites power in determining legislation.
Delight in the fiddle Baby.
Hate speech and the great divide
Interesting tag huh? I deemed it necesaary today with the sweep of noose hangings and other elements of hate speech circling academia.
Now I find it intriguing one would hang a noose in such a place to incite fear with racial overtones. That is neither here nor there. More importantly the focus should be on how to stop the practice through proper court procedures versus an emotionally fueled pep rally in the likes of, "They took our jobs".
Central Michigan University recently experienced a noose event on campus. Horrible. In fact the student who placed the nooses admitted guilt and was deemed a prankster by the prosecuting attorney.
Source
As a whole, America appreciates free speech and the rights of expression granted in the Constitution. Ironically, hate speech deserves the same protection. Where would our country go without civil disagreement? Civil disagreement that does not incite violence yet offends is protected by the same rights that allow me to associte freely.
So leaders urge affirmative remedies that consist only to protect or advance one class of the population is therefore creating a country that favors one class over the other.
Thats racism/sexism and discriminatory in nature.
It is un-American.
Now I find it intriguing one would hang a noose in such a place to incite fear with racial overtones. That is neither here nor there. More importantly the focus should be on how to stop the practice through proper court procedures versus an emotionally fueled pep rally in the likes of, "They took our jobs".
Central Michigan University recently experienced a noose event on campus. Horrible. In fact the student who placed the nooses admitted guilt and was deemed a prankster by the prosecuting attorney.
Source
As a whole, America appreciates free speech and the rights of expression granted in the Constitution. Ironically, hate speech deserves the same protection. Where would our country go without civil disagreement? Civil disagreement that does not incite violence yet offends is protected by the same rights that allow me to associte freely.
So leaders urge affirmative remedies that consist only to protect or advance one class of the population is therefore creating a country that favors one class over the other.
Thats racism/sexism and discriminatory in nature.
It is un-American.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Another daughter moment.
Yes she did it again. My three year old daughter has forced this author to dictate story time.
After a long weekend with her grandparents, she was dropped off and during the standard Michigan extended goodbyes mentioned what we as Americans often take for granted.
She told her grandfather to, "Take care of your wife".
She knows and loves "Gammy". She in fact spoke to her minutes before her proclamation.
But the question of perception at such a young age is intriguing.
I often mistake in this arena as well. Surely I love my wife. But to take care of her is to not merely be a provider or being able to "lift 500lbs.", as she reminds me.
It is to comfort, listen and understand. If graded on a 4.0 scale, I would be nearing academic probation. I attend the appropriate sessions of study, yet fail at least once a month.
She understands. Forgives my weakness and moves on. Not a grudge is held by my wife. I hope.
I think that's the lesson? Compassion. Attempted Civil compromise yet one sided civil compromise in most instances. But in reality, my wife runs the show. I have the utmost confidence in her parental abilities as evident by my daughters intelligence.
But it is hard as many would agree. But worth it. To grow with another under one shared goal of paternal success is gorgeous. A great experience that could only be lived not explained to.
At least that's what I think now.
After a long weekend with her grandparents, she was dropped off and during the standard Michigan extended goodbyes mentioned what we as Americans often take for granted.
She told her grandfather to, "Take care of your wife".
She knows and loves "Gammy". She in fact spoke to her minutes before her proclamation.
But the question of perception at such a young age is intriguing.
I often mistake in this arena as well. Surely I love my wife. But to take care of her is to not merely be a provider or being able to "lift 500lbs.", as she reminds me.
It is to comfort, listen and understand. If graded on a 4.0 scale, I would be nearing academic probation. I attend the appropriate sessions of study, yet fail at least once a month.
She understands. Forgives my weakness and moves on. Not a grudge is held by my wife. I hope.
I think that's the lesson? Compassion. Attempted Civil compromise yet one sided civil compromise in most instances. But in reality, my wife runs the show. I have the utmost confidence in her parental abilities as evident by my daughters intelligence.
But it is hard as many would agree. But worth it. To grow with another under one shared goal of paternal success is gorgeous. A great experience that could only be lived not explained to.
At least that's what I think now.
Origins of principality clothing
My friends it is on this day that I feel compelled to illustrate the motivating factors behind www.principalityclothing.com. You see, there was a time, long ago, that Africans were kings. Wikipedia this claim, but it is true. In fact Africans are the original philosophers, the land of Miir of course, home of Abraham. Eygypt the land of great human innovation.
It is with this brief history that I feel compelled. Compelled to name my clothing company and ultimately the voice of commentary Principality Clothing. It's actually quite the double entendre.
We were once and still I believe Kings/royalty (principalities). Yet principle has been lost in what some call popular culture, I call hip hop. The dignity of family values and right judgement (principality) has been tagged uncool by prior leaders and contemporary wanna be leaders. The disrespect for the rule of law has diminished on a backing of historical wrongs that in some circles, is still wrong.
What happened?
Yes slavery happened. Yes Jim Crow was dominant. But as Kings, I argue, we are to be held to a different standard right? Carry our heads high to pursue a better cause for our collective race. This argument in no way is support for black nationalism. It is in support of the American Way. In fact, many if not all racial minorities have been persecuted beyond a reasonable doubt. For in modern competitive times, it is the meritocracy of advancement that has taken the reins of a failed socialist democracy.
That's were it begins. As an urban conservative I fully expect freedom and independence. As an American I would call it a civil right. But it is not a civil right to be forced into complacency through social programs that promote the lack of competitive advancement. No. It is my friend another form of slavery. Slavery that has and some argue now does limit the freedoms Dr. King and many others strive for. This is not a call for assimilation.
This is a call to the Kings and Queens. Can you hear me? Stand up. Be proud of our advancement, not linger on its retroactive abilities to persuade complacency.
Royalty would not think of such an issue.
It is with this brief history that I feel compelled. Compelled to name my clothing company and ultimately the voice of commentary Principality Clothing. It's actually quite the double entendre.
We were once and still I believe Kings/royalty (principalities). Yet principle has been lost in what some call popular culture, I call hip hop. The dignity of family values and right judgement (principality) has been tagged uncool by prior leaders and contemporary wanna be leaders. The disrespect for the rule of law has diminished on a backing of historical wrongs that in some circles, is still wrong.
What happened?
Yes slavery happened. Yes Jim Crow was dominant. But as Kings, I argue, we are to be held to a different standard right? Carry our heads high to pursue a better cause for our collective race. This argument in no way is support for black nationalism. It is in support of the American Way. In fact, many if not all racial minorities have been persecuted beyond a reasonable doubt. For in modern competitive times, it is the meritocracy of advancement that has taken the reins of a failed socialist democracy.
That's were it begins. As an urban conservative I fully expect freedom and independence. As an American I would call it a civil right. But it is not a civil right to be forced into complacency through social programs that promote the lack of competitive advancement. No. It is my friend another form of slavery. Slavery that has and some argue now does limit the freedoms Dr. King and many others strive for. This is not a call for assimilation.
This is a call to the Kings and Queens. Can you hear me? Stand up. Be proud of our advancement, not linger on its retroactive abilities to persuade complacency.
Royalty would not think of such an issue.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Good bye old friend.
It was almost 4 years to the day we met. I was between relationships at the time. And you provided the security, stability I longed for. Such a void was filled in my heart by your presence. Yet I disrespected you. Often made petty excuses of our union. People would laugh at the presence of us both and I would in turn disrespect my devotion for our adventures. Citing economic forces for our supposed false unity.
You were with me when I met my wife. She grew to love you as much as I now do. You provided a rock of surety in shaky times. Stepping up to the plate when called on. Yet I still took you for granted.
When my daughter was born, you were with us.
You accompanied my wife and I on many trips, in which we would question your integrity, yet time and again you came through.
But now we walk ignore you. Making new relationships that have symbolized the economic climb we so desired as broke college students. Your stability was paramount in such trying times. I'm sorry.
Sorry for ignoring your needs that eventually led to your demise. Sorry for disrespecting your role in our family.
It is with that said, I will not throw you to the wolves to be discarded with no sanctity. Torn limb from precious limb for a measly $200.
My goal is to keep you close. To serve as a sign to future Lewis generations of your thrift and hard work that established safety for us.
So please remember, you were the rock we needed and will never forget.
You are my 95 Crown Victoria.
You were with me when I met my wife. She grew to love you as much as I now do. You provided a rock of surety in shaky times. Stepping up to the plate when called on. Yet I still took you for granted.
When my daughter was born, you were with us.
You accompanied my wife and I on many trips, in which we would question your integrity, yet time and again you came through.
But now we walk ignore you. Making new relationships that have symbolized the economic climb we so desired as broke college students. Your stability was paramount in such trying times. I'm sorry.
Sorry for ignoring your needs that eventually led to your demise. Sorry for disrespecting your role in our family.
It is with that said, I will not throw you to the wolves to be discarded with no sanctity. Torn limb from precious limb for a measly $200.
My goal is to keep you close. To serve as a sign to future Lewis generations of your thrift and hard work that established safety for us.
So please remember, you were the rock we needed and will never forget.
You are my 95 Crown Victoria.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Yes. That guy is back
Dora, Immigration, and our pride.
Amazing the faults we find in another. Yet with scrupulous detail we praise our youth.My daughter speaks Spanish now. She can say whatever Dora happens to be adventuring in Spanish very clearly. My wife and I take joy and thank God she is so smart. Her ability to grasp my wife's native Ebo language has prompted me to explore immigration and the wealth of diversity it creates. Good or Bad.
I do believe in an American way. Perhaps we may differ on it's proposed meaning. But I would call myself a patriot. A patriot that has and will continue to support values of freedom and reciprocity that have only proven to be crucial to our superpower status.
But this immigration..Well,I, I, I, like it. Yea. I kind of do. I like the fact, call me an optimist, that millions of people would risk their lives on a raft, cargo freight or other ways to even taste the freedom I live in. Call me proud, you probably already have, but the need to feel good about something this election cycle is calling. Middle school sense gay would be saying negative campaigning and blah, followed by Blah, education, and blah(fill in the blank). Lets delight in one issue that is polarizing to millions of people.
I recall an SNL skit in which Justice Rehnquist(Will Ferrell) calls to vote during the House impeachment of President Clinton, a vote to agree to disagree. Har, har.That's the good stuff.
In an abstract opinion, we have this right and tons of people travel in a raft or tunnel to come here and pick whatever migrant workers pick on their own free will to reach this right and in the land of opportunity.
Yet we fight. Oooo, we fight a lot.
Nothing tangible will be done soon of course, that would be too risky. Touchy subject. Taboo. Push pull factors on both ends.
So in celebration of our diversity and
"Americanism that is better then your country," what", "whatever" day, (pronounce in hick uneducated voice)
I propose a list of top ten reason to celebrate our multicultural influence on our current civil landscape and all things in the name of coolness.
1. Menudo(props to Toothless)
2. Bruce Lee, but mostly Bruce Lee movies like the ones that make fun of them and create huge subtitles for short statements. Surprisingly this joke is older then my Dad yet is still fresh.
3. Wu-Tang Clan(Emphasis on Ghostface Killer). Certainly no disrespect intended to the other fine members of this established crew.
4. Country Music. Yes think about it. If there wasn't immigration they would all be working, hence the country music. Then the wives, and you know the rest. Very old unfresh joke.
5. New Jersey.
6. Dating Dutch. This should be number one. Thank you my Dutch friends. Who knew cheapness could be taken this seriously
7. Chakira and Chakira videos.
8. The way Latinos speak broken English. Explaining with simple head nods and si. Hysterical.
9. American Idol. I argue this England implant plays dual roles. Keeps our wives occupied for two hours a week allowing us to be free from the leash of love. Then that guy, the one that said she bang accented heavy in Asian. Classic.
10. How could I forget. A staple of the American way, as I was reminded via her Vanwizzleness, an obvious sign of our pursuit of consumption
......I'll have the buffet.
The joy we have in finding "the best China Buffet" or even new local Indian cuisine.We delight in the feast and tell our friends of the variety we have experienced in life. Yet all to often when that variety is put against our pride, we favor our pride. As one always will, it is difficult to let go of our need for control in any situation. Not Janet Jackson control, but the control to define the surroundings we thrive in.
In the political arena, work and the private. because it is in these venues where we feel the need to filter. Change of which will be made at our own accord.
Sound familiar?"Maybe the Mexican fair downtown this weekend honey".
We can drive to said location, dictate the surroundings we put our self in and leave at our pleasure for the security in the home.In the heart, I argue yes. For it is the feeling of cautiously letting these new surroundings into our lives that gives us the coincidental thrill of progressive yet surreal touch of cool.
All too often the pretentious begins to creep.
Election year and polarizing topics will at the very least, define our country's will on diversity and who we let in so to speak.I suppose the idea of immigration while quite the quagmire, has alienating consequences.
One certainly could not be for immigration while celebrating diversity?
And here it is, Americans as a whole are not loathsome, took my job, diversity haters.
I argue we are the exact opposite. As mentioned above, we delight in these differences in our ever growing cultural mosaic.Proponents of either side claim the other are un-American.
Allowing such a display of ignorance, we fuel this argument by letting it be. Let it play out on TV, or the radio, then we simply use our powers through the remote to again, dictate our surroundings. But loose the remote and no more power, we search for ways to claim back the power even blaming others for misplacing our sense of control. AHH..But it's back now. Be cool. Provoke dialogue and ride it out.
Americans are not scared, quite the opposite really. Anxious and willing for this invasion of human innovation and technology. Potential growth and the mystery of whats next.
The loss of control, not so much.
Amazing the faults we find in another. Yet with scrupulous detail we praise our youth.My daughter speaks Spanish now. She can say whatever Dora happens to be adventuring in Spanish very clearly. My wife and I take joy and thank God she is so smart. Her ability to grasp my wife's native Ebo language has prompted me to explore immigration and the wealth of diversity it creates. Good or Bad.
I do believe in an American way. Perhaps we may differ on it's proposed meaning. But I would call myself a patriot. A patriot that has and will continue to support values of freedom and reciprocity that have only proven to be crucial to our superpower status.
But this immigration..Well,I, I, I, like it. Yea. I kind of do. I like the fact, call me an optimist, that millions of people would risk their lives on a raft, cargo freight or other ways to even taste the freedom I live in. Call me proud, you probably already have, but the need to feel good about something this election cycle is calling. Middle school sense gay would be saying negative campaigning and blah, followed by Blah, education, and blah(fill in the blank). Lets delight in one issue that is polarizing to millions of people.
I recall an SNL skit in which Justice Rehnquist(Will Ferrell) calls to vote during the House impeachment of President Clinton, a vote to agree to disagree. Har, har.That's the good stuff.
In an abstract opinion, we have this right and tons of people travel in a raft or tunnel to come here and pick whatever migrant workers pick on their own free will to reach this right and in the land of opportunity.
Yet we fight. Oooo, we fight a lot.
Nothing tangible will be done soon of course, that would be too risky. Touchy subject. Taboo. Push pull factors on both ends.
So in celebration of our diversity and
"Americanism that is better then your country," what", "whatever" day, (pronounce in hick uneducated voice)
I propose a list of top ten reason to celebrate our multicultural influence on our current civil landscape and all things in the name of coolness.
1. Menudo(props to Toothless)
2. Bruce Lee, but mostly Bruce Lee movies like the ones that make fun of them and create huge subtitles for short statements. Surprisingly this joke is older then my Dad yet is still fresh.
3. Wu-Tang Clan(Emphasis on Ghostface Killer). Certainly no disrespect intended to the other fine members of this established crew.
4. Country Music. Yes think about it. If there wasn't immigration they would all be working, hence the country music. Then the wives, and you know the rest. Very old unfresh joke.
5. New Jersey.
6. Dating Dutch. This should be number one. Thank you my Dutch friends. Who knew cheapness could be taken this seriously
7. Chakira and Chakira videos.
8. The way Latinos speak broken English. Explaining with simple head nods and si. Hysterical.
9. American Idol. I argue this England implant plays dual roles. Keeps our wives occupied for two hours a week allowing us to be free from the leash of love. Then that guy, the one that said she bang accented heavy in Asian. Classic.
10. How could I forget. A staple of the American way, as I was reminded via her Vanwizzleness, an obvious sign of our pursuit of consumption
......I'll have the buffet.
The joy we have in finding "the best China Buffet" or even new local Indian cuisine.We delight in the feast and tell our friends of the variety we have experienced in life. Yet all to often when that variety is put against our pride, we favor our pride. As one always will, it is difficult to let go of our need for control in any situation. Not Janet Jackson control, but the control to define the surroundings we thrive in.
In the political arena, work and the private. because it is in these venues where we feel the need to filter. Change of which will be made at our own accord.
Sound familiar?"Maybe the Mexican fair downtown this weekend honey".
We can drive to said location, dictate the surroundings we put our self in and leave at our pleasure for the security in the home.In the heart, I argue yes. For it is the feeling of cautiously letting these new surroundings into our lives that gives us the coincidental thrill of progressive yet surreal touch of cool.
All too often the pretentious begins to creep.
Election year and polarizing topics will at the very least, define our country's will on diversity and who we let in so to speak.I suppose the idea of immigration while quite the quagmire, has alienating consequences.
One certainly could not be for immigration while celebrating diversity?
And here it is, Americans as a whole are not loathsome, took my job, diversity haters.
I argue we are the exact opposite. As mentioned above, we delight in these differences in our ever growing cultural mosaic.Proponents of either side claim the other are un-American.
Allowing such a display of ignorance, we fuel this argument by letting it be. Let it play out on TV, or the radio, then we simply use our powers through the remote to again, dictate our surroundings. But loose the remote and no more power, we search for ways to claim back the power even blaming others for misplacing our sense of control. AHH..But it's back now. Be cool. Provoke dialogue and ride it out.
Americans are not scared, quite the opposite really. Anxious and willing for this invasion of human innovation and technology. Potential growth and the mystery of whats next.
The loss of control, not so much.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
The N-word, misrepresentation and common sense....
Looking at my upcoming schedule and the events that demand my attention, I am compelled to dismiss rational thinking and address the conflict that currently mandates a new post.
Because it is the principality.
Original Story
Nigger. There, are you happy. I said it. And in all my blackness I will be protected. I won't get fired, nor will be subject to cruel and unusual punishment in the media. I am just a college blogger though. Immune from the lights and fame that should now be known as the "realm of double standards".
You see, it's not the word itself that is subject to such dispute. It is the orator of said word that is under scrutiny. By no means would the verdict from the court of public opinion be held to face value in the criminal justice system, but nonetheless, those of non-Hispanic Caucasian origin are compelled to apologize and go to counseling, then rehab, seek forgiveness, and of course, kiss the ass of all dark skinned people in a 50 mile radius if they utter nigger.
If we as African Americans continue creating racial distinctions in our society, then we will be treated as such. Like nurtured babies we continue to rely on the government through political agitation for equality. Yet the equality we pursue is directly related to the equality our leaders exude to others which has resulted in policies in the urban community based around this idea that African Americans should be held to a different standard and therefore receive political reparations that in no way increase graduation rates or other factors resulting in upward mobility. Soaring like a vulcher to search out the next victim of their "boycott", these leaders carry themselves in a way that deters attention from responsible decisions being made at the state and local level that could alleviate modern dilemmas in the black community.
Don Imus, Dog, LBJ, FDR, and a plethora, dare I say a cornucopia of others have said nigger.
But we want to cry. We want equality that is falsely based on recognizing our past plight. Our leaders who are to be fighting for true responsibility, are still crusading to define Black America.
Yet Black America is America, and like all Americans, free. Free from distinctions that create a lower class of citizens.
So if my argument is not enough to convince you these actions are wrong, what more can I say besides...
Nigger please.
Oh no you did int. Yes, I did int.
Because it is the principality.
Original Story
Nigger. There, are you happy. I said it. And in all my blackness I will be protected. I won't get fired, nor will be subject to cruel and unusual punishment in the media. I am just a college blogger though. Immune from the lights and fame that should now be known as the "realm of double standards".
You see, it's not the word itself that is subject to such dispute. It is the orator of said word that is under scrutiny. By no means would the verdict from the court of public opinion be held to face value in the criminal justice system, but nonetheless, those of non-Hispanic Caucasian origin are compelled to apologize and go to counseling, then rehab, seek forgiveness, and of course, kiss the ass of all dark skinned people in a 50 mile radius if they utter nigger.
If we as African Americans continue creating racial distinctions in our society, then we will be treated as such. Like nurtured babies we continue to rely on the government through political agitation for equality. Yet the equality we pursue is directly related to the equality our leaders exude to others which has resulted in policies in the urban community based around this idea that African Americans should be held to a different standard and therefore receive political reparations that in no way increase graduation rates or other factors resulting in upward mobility. Soaring like a vulcher to search out the next victim of their "boycott", these leaders carry themselves in a way that deters attention from responsible decisions being made at the state and local level that could alleviate modern dilemmas in the black community.
Don Imus, Dog, LBJ, FDR, and a plethora, dare I say a cornucopia of others have said nigger.
But we want to cry. We want equality that is falsely based on recognizing our past plight. Our leaders who are to be fighting for true responsibility, are still crusading to define Black America.
Yet Black America is America, and like all Americans, free. Free from distinctions that create a lower class of citizens.
So if my argument is not enough to convince you these actions are wrong, what more can I say besides...
Nigger please.
Oh no you did int. Yes, I did int.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Welfare Wal-Mart. It does not deserve a principality tag.
Below is what Kent County Commissioner Paul Mayhue had to say concerning the $27 million Kent County Human Services building.
"It will be almost like one-stop shopping in terms of health, social services and welfare," said Kent County Commissioner Paul Mayhue. "They could call it the Department of Health, Human Services and Welfare."
Original Story
Terrific, I can't wait. A shopping mall for the entitled. Almost Wal-Mart esgue in its purpose. So now, money that could be used for increasing said entitlements, is spent on increasing the experience of the entitled. Because really, who wants to accept handouts in such an uninviting atmosphere that is the current Kent County FIA?
Maybe that should be the goal. Not because locals are selfish, but help can be found in other venues. In fact, I argue, lets use a portion to grime the building down some more. Maybe it would never have visitors again. And, if all goes well, the $27 million dollars could be used to create wealth in the Grand Rapids community. Surely, tuition at a public university could be covered with those funds? So, instead of investing in future endeavors that could lead some out of the cyclical trends of poverty. We build a welfare Wal-Mart.
Because everyone loves Wal-Mart.
"It will be almost like one-stop shopping in terms of health, social services and welfare," said Kent County Commissioner Paul Mayhue. "They could call it the Department of Health, Human Services and Welfare."
Original Story
Terrific, I can't wait. A shopping mall for the entitled. Almost Wal-Mart esgue in its purpose. So now, money that could be used for increasing said entitlements, is spent on increasing the experience of the entitled. Because really, who wants to accept handouts in such an uninviting atmosphere that is the current Kent County FIA?
Maybe that should be the goal. Not because locals are selfish, but help can be found in other venues. In fact, I argue, lets use a portion to grime the building down some more. Maybe it would never have visitors again. And, if all goes well, the $27 million dollars could be used to create wealth in the Grand Rapids community. Surely, tuition at a public university could be covered with those funds? So, instead of investing in future endeavors that could lead some out of the cyclical trends of poverty. We build a welfare Wal-Mart.
Because everyone loves Wal-Mart.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Disrespect common law and be...... rewarded?
Ah yes, how can we be so blind? No longer is a college degree, good credit and even just being motivated by goodness precursors for fame. I know I cannot believe it myself. If only some friends and I beat some skinny white kid, then maybe I could be a host on BET.
Read the story here Original Story.
Is this America? The land where we reward criminal behavior with near celebrity status?
This sends a great message to our children. Not only does violence, grotesque violence set the tone for another Al Sharpton moment, you too can be on BET.
Just think kiddies. No school. No church. Just good old American public relations with a big pinch of victomology simply mix and spin heavily let simmer in the front page, blogosphere and hyped up rhetoric....Blow
The American Dream.
Some of my readers might say to the above.
"Oh no you didint."
Read the story here Original Story.
Is this America? The land where we reward criminal behavior with near celebrity status?
This sends a great message to our children. Not only does violence, grotesque violence set the tone for another Al Sharpton moment, you too can be on BET.
Just think kiddies. No school. No church. Just good old American public relations with a big pinch of victomology simply mix and spin heavily let simmer in the front page, blogosphere and hyped up rhetoric....Blow
The American Dream.
Some of my readers might say to the above.
"Oh no you didint."
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Keep it Hood....Yes..It is the Principality .
Yes. Keep it hood. What could he mean you ask?
Last night my daughter mentioned she wanted her snack that she was holding on to throughout the day. My wife and I determined that she could have said snack before bed. She was not happy and declared the snack was "mines". Now at two years old, singular and incorrect verb evasions is understandable. My wife and I corrected her at once, reminding her that mine is correct and mines, is well, like my wife said, ghetto.
Open up the flood gates of questions, whats ghetto my daughter asked.
Quick with the response, I told her ghetto stands for ignorance, bad, not smart and to not be that which is exudes intelligence.
This past week, TI was arrested for trying to buy machine guns and a silencer from an undercover ATF narc. Ironically he also won two BET awards the same night. In which, according to Original Story the others partaking in the awards "held it down for him and also represented TI". Busta Rhymes, who is not fond of our nations finest, yelled exuberantly "Free TI". Because really, the man was just trying to grow his weapons cache. So what if he is an ex-con? What does the law have to do with this?
I know the answer. He was keeping it hood. Honestly, does he need more guns or for that matter protection? No. The real issue is TI being one with the streets that has supposed to make him famous and keeping the aurora of tough guy, millionaire tough guy, and don't forget BET tough guy.
Instead of sending a trusted confidant to look into aggressive investment strategies or hedge fund opportunities, TI in all his wisdom is looking for guns. Guns that have continued to plaque the streets that TI has talked about in his music and philanthropy.
I argue if it is the mission of such entertainers to provide and be role models as many claim, then why buy guns, in an Atlanta shopping mall parking lot, from one of your bodyguards? Keeping it hood perhaps.
Funny enough, it does not stop there. Should this man who has openly performed a probation violation, be lauded with praise at the Black entertainment awards? No. Bob Johnson, did not create Black Exploitation, rather Black Entertainment Television. But hasn't it become just that?
106 and park, misogyny, lack of proper language. Not the education advancements or even assimilation. Bringing down the proud race that is black America.
But nevertheless, they as a network and those they market to are content to proven complacency and enforcing the statistical evidence of the dumbing down of black America.
Ironically, all are in agreeance to, keeping it hood.
Last night my daughter mentioned she wanted her snack that she was holding on to throughout the day. My wife and I determined that she could have said snack before bed. She was not happy and declared the snack was "mines". Now at two years old, singular and incorrect verb evasions is understandable. My wife and I corrected her at once, reminding her that mine is correct and mines, is well, like my wife said, ghetto.
Open up the flood gates of questions, whats ghetto my daughter asked.
Quick with the response, I told her ghetto stands for ignorance, bad, not smart and to not be that which is exudes intelligence.
This past week, TI was arrested for trying to buy machine guns and a silencer from an undercover ATF narc. Ironically he also won two BET awards the same night. In which, according to Original Story the others partaking in the awards "held it down for him and also represented TI". Busta Rhymes, who is not fond of our nations finest, yelled exuberantly "Free TI". Because really, the man was just trying to grow his weapons cache. So what if he is an ex-con? What does the law have to do with this?
I know the answer. He was keeping it hood. Honestly, does he need more guns or for that matter protection? No. The real issue is TI being one with the streets that has supposed to make him famous and keeping the aurora of tough guy, millionaire tough guy, and don't forget BET tough guy.
Instead of sending a trusted confidant to look into aggressive investment strategies or hedge fund opportunities, TI in all his wisdom is looking for guns. Guns that have continued to plaque the streets that TI has talked about in his music and philanthropy.
I argue if it is the mission of such entertainers to provide and be role models as many claim, then why buy guns, in an Atlanta shopping mall parking lot, from one of your bodyguards? Keeping it hood perhaps.
Funny enough, it does not stop there. Should this man who has openly performed a probation violation, be lauded with praise at the Black entertainment awards? No. Bob Johnson, did not create Black Exploitation, rather Black Entertainment Television. But hasn't it become just that?
106 and park, misogyny, lack of proper language. Not the education advancements or even assimilation. Bringing down the proud race that is black America.
But nevertheless, they as a network and those they market to are content to proven complacency and enforcing the statistical evidence of the dumbing down of black America.
Ironically, all are in agreeance to, keeping it hood.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Chucky Cheese and the American Way.
Interesting how life works, isn't it? The daily mundane tasks of doing your best, collecting wealth and in the end, hopefully, prospering. Yet we often disregard our daily tasks as an unwanted burden placed on our laps like a wet dog. We sometimes cringe at challenges when we are unaware as to their potential reward.
The modern man is accustomed to taking challenges with an air of curiosity only compared to that wet dog. We look around to examine how to do that mentioned above, do our best, gain wealth, and prosper.
Only in America can we find a way to condition our children into just that, and no this is not a paid spot.
Could it really be?
We send them to receive a great education, ideally, learning to adapt to surroundings, and......eat pizza. No you say?
We expect them to perform their best and receive the reward through gaining a vast wealth of monetary tokens goods and experience...with tickets?
Yes my friends as many others have experienced the Chucky Cheese or Major Magic phenomena, I have fell victim.
She loves it. While my daughter is culturally diverse in many ways including ethnic makeup and civic awareness, nothing could have prepped this writer for the shock of capitalism pre K. Rarely do we find the youth collecting their fair share at the redemption counter. Or, which could be worse, the ticket tax. Never a child left to be seen with his pockets pulled out who has lost it all playing ski ball.
Run, play, gather, compete, strategic maneuvers, analyze in the name of Capit....oh wait, fun.
That's when reality strikes does it not? We see them in their youth enjoying the tasks we so take for granted. With a smile they invest capital for future payoff. Compete with fellow man in for the highest score in a plethora of activities, and when all is said and done, they come home to their private..oops again, race car beds.
Because when we see this positive take on the daily norms, it can be refreshing. No longer wincing at the thought of labor, just competing and enjoying the good life.
If only we all got a ticket for playing the game of life.
The modern man is accustomed to taking challenges with an air of curiosity only compared to that wet dog. We look around to examine how to do that mentioned above, do our best, gain wealth, and prosper.
Only in America can we find a way to condition our children into just that, and no this is not a paid spot.
Could it really be?
We send them to receive a great education, ideally, learning to adapt to surroundings, and......eat pizza. No you say?
We expect them to perform their best and receive the reward through gaining a vast wealth of monetary tokens goods and experience...with tickets?
Yes my friends as many others have experienced the Chucky Cheese or Major Magic phenomena, I have fell victim.
She loves it. While my daughter is culturally diverse in many ways including ethnic makeup and civic awareness, nothing could have prepped this writer for the shock of capitalism pre K. Rarely do we find the youth collecting their fair share at the redemption counter. Or, which could be worse, the ticket tax. Never a child left to be seen with his pockets pulled out who has lost it all playing ski ball.
Run, play, gather, compete, strategic maneuvers, analyze in the name of Capit....oh wait, fun.
That's when reality strikes does it not? We see them in their youth enjoying the tasks we so take for granted. With a smile they invest capital for future payoff. Compete with fellow man in for the highest score in a plethora of activities, and when all is said and done, they come home to their private..oops again, race car beds.
Because when we see this positive take on the daily norms, it can be refreshing. No longer wincing at the thought of labor, just competing and enjoying the good life.
If only we all got a ticket for playing the game of life.
The decay of marriage and it's effects on our culture
Friends, yes it has come to my attention that, while mostly opinion, we as Americans need to realize the impact on marriage and its importance on not only our moral compass, but the future generations we so desire to succeed.
You see, there is a problem, not with only the marriage but also the foundation on which the vows are made. In this writers opinion, it is crucial to accept the matrimony as being that under God. The desire for some to polarize this sacred institution into a sexual, monetary or just overall selfish gain has led this gorgeous gift from God into a state of no identity or sense of belonging.
Let me illustrate. I enjoy chat rooms, gathering the public pulse, identifying opinions, the various degrees of human nature at it's worst. On a recent surfing voyage I was appalled to see what some writers would say, and imply to do, just for housing or even money. While I was not born yesterday and do to some degree know of the lack of morals some have, I was shocked to see such posts as being..."Sleep with my wife for money" and even.."Share my wife". I immediately flagged these comments as being unfit to read for anybody, but particularly unfit for the site I was visiting.
Could this be true? Would another or even a husband allow for such actions to be condoned under his roof and for that matter just ever?
In the comparatively small urban population of Grand Rapids, it could be by simple data gathering, that this is not a concentrated issue. I argue it is worldwide. In fact I argue this problem goes beyond borders and race and other distinctions. This issue is at the core of what we in our "right mind" like to call the problem.
The problem consists and is rooted not in political ideology or religious background. The problem is of a moral one. A moral issue that can penetrate generations into conforming with certain behaviors perceived.
Jena 6 lack of parental involvement
Saddam Hussein no father
Stalin's father was a drunk and wife beater
Hitler Parents were cousins and he was illegitimate
Idi Amin Abandoned by his father
Get the point!
Over lunch today, in code so my daughter could not decipher, my wife and I discussed the recent case concerning the federal prosecutor arrested recently, finally dead, for attempting to have ugh with a 5 year old girl. This tryst was set up allegedly with the girls parents. Good thing we were near completion of our meals, we nearly choked at the thought. But it was a sting to catch people like this. Which makes you wonder, how big is this problem. Original Story
Here it is again, The problem. Not from taxes or the economy, but the moral attitude and how we serve under God. Of course to mention God I am speaking of all the various religions my readers are aligned with. Because isn't that what religion does? I argue strong religious guidance in the walk of life would deter many of the social plights we see today and even possibly, cure The Problem.
So gentlemen, ladies and all of my esteemed readers, please remember, build your marriage on a strong belief in faith, be attentive, compassionate parents and someday the world will thank you.
You see, there is a problem, not with only the marriage but also the foundation on which the vows are made. In this writers opinion, it is crucial to accept the matrimony as being that under God. The desire for some to polarize this sacred institution into a sexual, monetary or just overall selfish gain has led this gorgeous gift from God into a state of no identity or sense of belonging.
Let me illustrate. I enjoy chat rooms, gathering the public pulse, identifying opinions, the various degrees of human nature at it's worst. On a recent surfing voyage I was appalled to see what some writers would say, and imply to do, just for housing or even money. While I was not born yesterday and do to some degree know of the lack of morals some have, I was shocked to see such posts as being..."Sleep with my wife for money" and even.."Share my wife". I immediately flagged these comments as being unfit to read for anybody, but particularly unfit for the site I was visiting.
Could this be true? Would another or even a husband allow for such actions to be condoned under his roof and for that matter just ever?
In the comparatively small urban population of Grand Rapids, it could be by simple data gathering, that this is not a concentrated issue. I argue it is worldwide. In fact I argue this problem goes beyond borders and race and other distinctions. This issue is at the core of what we in our "right mind" like to call the problem.
The problem consists and is rooted not in political ideology or religious background. The problem is of a moral one. A moral issue that can penetrate generations into conforming with certain behaviors perceived.
Jena 6 lack of parental involvement
Saddam Hussein no father
Stalin's father was a drunk and wife beater
Hitler Parents were cousins and he was illegitimate
Idi Amin Abandoned by his father
Get the point!
Over lunch today, in code so my daughter could not decipher, my wife and I discussed the recent case concerning the federal prosecutor arrested recently, finally dead, for attempting to have ugh with a 5 year old girl. This tryst was set up allegedly with the girls parents. Good thing we were near completion of our meals, we nearly choked at the thought. But it was a sting to catch people like this. Which makes you wonder, how big is this problem. Original Story
Here it is again, The problem. Not from taxes or the economy, but the moral attitude and how we serve under God. Of course to mention God I am speaking of all the various religions my readers are aligned with. Because isn't that what religion does? I argue strong religious guidance in the walk of life would deter many of the social plights we see today and even possibly, cure The Problem.
So gentlemen, ladies and all of my esteemed readers, please remember, build your marriage on a strong belief in faith, be attentive, compassionate parents and someday the world will thank you.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Bad times in Michigan.....A lesson on principality.
Fact Check Tough Guy
Land of the Free or Land of the Entitled? I say free, let me tell you why. Our founding fathers wrote a great document, second to the Bible, explaining the wonderful unalienable rights we cherish through God. Yet with further research, I did not see healthcare, food stamps, guaranteed retirements or inflated bureaucracy. What I did see is a desire to be free from the burdens of a strong central government. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness under the rule of law is what I perceived, as many others have. Yet Michigan finds itself in quite the quagmire. For years as a whole the state has permeated this aurora of, “I breathe therefore…. give me a job, with perks….and days off…strong union wages……oh, and lifetime healthcare.”
That’s not freedom! The “needs” mentioned above, can be solved, not with bureaucracy, but with the freedom of personal responsibility and the rights taken away by the strong central government. We often dismiss the compassion among our fellow citizens to be selfish. Nothing could be further from the truth. History has shown, given certain rough times that the freedom of Americans to make conscious decisions overwhelmingly favors those thought to be done by the legislature.
Where has the competition gone? Where has the personal responsibility gone? Expressive individualism has proven to work. I personally have noticed my wife spends my check better then I ever have. Please, instead of raising taxes Gov. Granholm, let my wife spend my check. As many in Michigan would agree, where is the freedom in taxing my income? What mathematician created the equation 4.6 x my check=freedom?
7.2% unemployment, a recent minimum wage increase, single state recession and a complicated new business tax. Now, the Governor feels we need to raise taxes to cut the states budget deficit. Michigan residents and businesses cringe at the thought. Raising expenses is not good for the profit margin or the savings. Did you know that Governor?
Slowly the tradition in Michigan is straying away from, “government of the people, by the people, for the people”… into “government of the government by the government, for, yes, government.”
Or is that your plan?
That’s unconstitutional.
Land of the Free or Land of the Entitled? I say free, let me tell you why. Our founding fathers wrote a great document, second to the Bible, explaining the wonderful unalienable rights we cherish through God. Yet with further research, I did not see healthcare, food stamps, guaranteed retirements or inflated bureaucracy. What I did see is a desire to be free from the burdens of a strong central government. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness under the rule of law is what I perceived, as many others have. Yet Michigan finds itself in quite the quagmire. For years as a whole the state has permeated this aurora of, “I breathe therefore…. give me a job, with perks….and days off…strong union wages……oh, and lifetime healthcare.”
That’s not freedom! The “needs” mentioned above, can be solved, not with bureaucracy, but with the freedom of personal responsibility and the rights taken away by the strong central government. We often dismiss the compassion among our fellow citizens to be selfish. Nothing could be further from the truth. History has shown, given certain rough times that the freedom of Americans to make conscious decisions overwhelmingly favors those thought to be done by the legislature.
Where has the competition gone? Where has the personal responsibility gone? Expressive individualism has proven to work. I personally have noticed my wife spends my check better then I ever have. Please, instead of raising taxes Gov. Granholm, let my wife spend my check. As many in Michigan would agree, where is the freedom in taxing my income? What mathematician created the equation 4.6 x my check=freedom?
7.2% unemployment, a recent minimum wage increase, single state recession and a complicated new business tax. Now, the Governor feels we need to raise taxes to cut the states budget deficit. Michigan residents and businesses cringe at the thought. Raising expenses is not good for the profit margin or the savings. Did you know that Governor?
Slowly the tradition in Michigan is straying away from, “government of the people, by the people, for the people”… into “government of the government by the government, for, yes, government.”
Or is that your plan?
That’s unconstitutional.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Saturday, September 15, 2007
The Socio-Economic Struggle...
This article is from RightMichigan.com.
A Tax Increase Is Not The Answer To Fighting Poverty by Akindele Akinyemi
By Akindele, Section News
Posted on Sun Sep 16, 2007 at 01:59:39 AM EST
African Americans are the only modern race of people in this country that created a political powerbase, before we created an economic powerbase. Think about it. No other race of people in America has taken this route, except for Blacks and to some degree, the Irish. The Irish plan has not worked out much better than ours has on the whole, but they had a few things going for them that Black America did not. Amongst them, they were not an enslaved people, legally prohibited from the basics, such as education, which in the 21st Century is, and will continue to be, the ultimate poverty eradication tool in America. Even our Latino brothers and sisters have gotten off on the right foot here. Say what you will about illegal immigration, Hispanic legal and illegal immigrants alike have learned something important about America, and quickly - you are nothing if not an owner or producer in this country.
I have been saying all along that missing this critical step of economic empowerment, ownership and the power of individual property rights early in our developmental process as a people in America, we wholeheartedly embraced the first true mainstream power that seemed to emerge from the fruits of the civil rights movement - political power. How wonderful. But political power without the underpinning of economic empowerment is a car without an engine.
Public policy in Michigan is principally designed around Michigan's first priority; economics and ownership. Individual property rights. Think about it - from tax breaks and other protections for homeowners, to incentives for the working class, to incentives for small businesses and major corporations alike.. it's all about owners and producers.
How many of us living in Detroit or other areas in Urban Michigan really care about a tax break unless you have a job? Do you really care about a bond issuance for infrastructure repairs or investment in your local community, unless you own a home or business? Frankly, those who are not owners or tax payers may not even know what others are talking about. It's a foreign language to those who are not owners or producers. And so, as a result we have effectively tied one hand behind the collective back of our political leadership; forcing them to pursue a doomed public policy strategy not of proactively protecting, enhancing and growing our own individual property rights, but rather a reactive, defensive "strategy" of trying to protect and preserve an ever decreasing pool of mostly entitlements and public subsidies.
In the One Network we believe that the emergence of a true Black stakeholder class in Urban Michigan we will no longer see homeowners as Black, White or brown, but green. We will see our urban, inner city communities not as wastelands, but emerging markets in Michigan, vastly under-served, and the last bastion of lost capitalism. A place of future riches.
We cannot bring this into fruition if we are always trying to raise taxes here in Michigan. Strangely, no side, Democrat or Republican, has come to an conclusion on how to solve the state's budget crisis. Both sides are blaming each other.
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy has given some solutions that I think would be a good alternative. I have listed a few below.
Change the higher education funding mechanism to a standard "per-pupil foundation grant" in which the money is attached to the students, rather than each university getting an amount determined by legislative maneuvering. As colleges were forced to compete for students, they would "sharpen their pencils," rein in costs and eliminate the kinds of inefficiencies highlighted in recent audit reports. If the effect was that costs fell by just 5 percent, the savings would be: $70 million.
Shift state police road patrols to less expensive county sheriff deputies. With benefits and related expenses it costs more than $100,000 per year to employ a state trooper; most sheriff deputies cost much less to employ. Effect on public safety: Zero. Savings: $65 million.
Adopt the Hay Group report recommendations on rationalizing public school health insurance, including requiring co-pays and preferred provider networks. This could save: $422 million.
Eliminate the Michigan State University cooperative extension service and agriculture experiment station to save: $61 million.
The original version of this list recommended halting the so-called "21st Century Jobs Fund" before it borrowed and spent $400 million. It's too late for that now: All but $33 million was spent before the 2006 election, and taxpayers will be repaying the debt for decades. At the very least, the bleeding can be stanched -- $75 million of what is being characterized as a "$1 billion state deficit" is new borrowing for this boondoggle. Skip it and save: $75 million.
According to a Rio Grande Foundation report, if 5 percent of prisoners are placed in privately-managed prisons, the state saves 14 percent on overall prison spending because government-managed prisons have an incentive to "sharpen their pencils." Savings: $192 million.
Eliminate "History and Arts" subsidies, and cut state library subsidies in half: $35 million.
The rest can be found at mackinac.org
Regardless of what the outcomes will be in the next few days (hopefully we will not see any tax increases) if we do not begin to combat financial illiteracy it will kill the hopes and dreams of literally millions of African Americans with the will to make it.
Full financial literacy should practically link itself to viable strategies for true economic empowerment, conversion (converting a check cashing mentality into a bank account mentality, a renters mentality into a homeownership mentality, etc.) and ownership in low-wealth communities.
While Democrats and Republicans battle it out in Lansing over tax increases let it be known if we truly want to eradicate poverty, if we truly want to create social change, if we truly want to make a difference in our community, we cannot do it on a partisan political basis. This may be bad news for some. But if we look at the social movers of our times -- Gandhi, King, Cesar Chavez, Mother Teresa -- respectfully, none were politicians. They were moral leaders who had the vision and a passion to make a difference.
This of course is not to say that political leadership is not important, but frankly, just the opposite. Not JUST political leadership, and surely more than just partisan political leadership, is needed for our true emergence as a people. Having strong spirit-centered leadership throughout the Black community, starting in our homes and in our individual lives, helps and strengthens our political leadership in Lansing.
So if we want to make a change, we have to do something really difficult. We have to work together; Democrats and Republicans, blacks and whites, conservatives and liberals. We have to find a common ground.
In our Network when we talk about Genesis we teach people to believe in themselves. We do not conduct business with companies, governments, or organizations; we do business with people. Not just any type of business but business that will help transform urban ghettos into Christian communities.
The 20th century was about race and the color line. The 21st century is going to be about class and poverty. According to CNN, half of all Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. This is a 2001 report. By 2004, this figure was 70% living from paycheck to paycheck. There are more poor whites in America than poor anybody else. Do not let anybody tell you anything different.
We have to focus on spiritual wealth, emotional wealth, economic wealth, and especially educational wealth. Education is the ultimate poverty eradication tool. When you know better, you tend to do better!
It is not about making more money; it is about making better decisions with the money you make. You can make three million dollars and still spend five million. It does not matter.
If our elected officials in Lansing understood this simple concept we would not be sitting here talking about
A Tax Increase Is Not The Answer To Fighting Poverty by Akindele Akinyemi
By Akindele, Section News
Posted on Sun Sep 16, 2007 at 01:59:39 AM EST
African Americans are the only modern race of people in this country that created a political powerbase, before we created an economic powerbase. Think about it. No other race of people in America has taken this route, except for Blacks and to some degree, the Irish. The Irish plan has not worked out much better than ours has on the whole, but they had a few things going for them that Black America did not. Amongst them, they were not an enslaved people, legally prohibited from the basics, such as education, which in the 21st Century is, and will continue to be, the ultimate poverty eradication tool in America. Even our Latino brothers and sisters have gotten off on the right foot here. Say what you will about illegal immigration, Hispanic legal and illegal immigrants alike have learned something important about America, and quickly - you are nothing if not an owner or producer in this country.
I have been saying all along that missing this critical step of economic empowerment, ownership and the power of individual property rights early in our developmental process as a people in America, we wholeheartedly embraced the first true mainstream power that seemed to emerge from the fruits of the civil rights movement - political power. How wonderful. But political power without the underpinning of economic empowerment is a car without an engine.
Public policy in Michigan is principally designed around Michigan's first priority; economics and ownership. Individual property rights. Think about it - from tax breaks and other protections for homeowners, to incentives for the working class, to incentives for small businesses and major corporations alike.. it's all about owners and producers.
How many of us living in Detroit or other areas in Urban Michigan really care about a tax break unless you have a job? Do you really care about a bond issuance for infrastructure repairs or investment in your local community, unless you own a home or business? Frankly, those who are not owners or tax payers may not even know what others are talking about. It's a foreign language to those who are not owners or producers. And so, as a result we have effectively tied one hand behind the collective back of our political leadership; forcing them to pursue a doomed public policy strategy not of proactively protecting, enhancing and growing our own individual property rights, but rather a reactive, defensive "strategy" of trying to protect and preserve an ever decreasing pool of mostly entitlements and public subsidies.
In the One Network we believe that the emergence of a true Black stakeholder class in Urban Michigan we will no longer see homeowners as Black, White or brown, but green. We will see our urban, inner city communities not as wastelands, but emerging markets in Michigan, vastly under-served, and the last bastion of lost capitalism. A place of future riches.
We cannot bring this into fruition if we are always trying to raise taxes here in Michigan. Strangely, no side, Democrat or Republican, has come to an conclusion on how to solve the state's budget crisis. Both sides are blaming each other.
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy has given some solutions that I think would be a good alternative. I have listed a few below.
Change the higher education funding mechanism to a standard "per-pupil foundation grant" in which the money is attached to the students, rather than each university getting an amount determined by legislative maneuvering. As colleges were forced to compete for students, they would "sharpen their pencils," rein in costs and eliminate the kinds of inefficiencies highlighted in recent audit reports. If the effect was that costs fell by just 5 percent, the savings would be: $70 million.
Shift state police road patrols to less expensive county sheriff deputies. With benefits and related expenses it costs more than $100,000 per year to employ a state trooper; most sheriff deputies cost much less to employ. Effect on public safety: Zero. Savings: $65 million.
Adopt the Hay Group report recommendations on rationalizing public school health insurance, including requiring co-pays and preferred provider networks. This could save: $422 million.
Eliminate the Michigan State University cooperative extension service and agriculture experiment station to save: $61 million.
The original version of this list recommended halting the so-called "21st Century Jobs Fund" before it borrowed and spent $400 million. It's too late for that now: All but $33 million was spent before the 2006 election, and taxpayers will be repaying the debt for decades. At the very least, the bleeding can be stanched -- $75 million of what is being characterized as a "$1 billion state deficit" is new borrowing for this boondoggle. Skip it and save: $75 million.
According to a Rio Grande Foundation report, if 5 percent of prisoners are placed in privately-managed prisons, the state saves 14 percent on overall prison spending because government-managed prisons have an incentive to "sharpen their pencils." Savings: $192 million.
Eliminate "History and Arts" subsidies, and cut state library subsidies in half: $35 million.
The rest can be found at mackinac.org
Regardless of what the outcomes will be in the next few days (hopefully we will not see any tax increases) if we do not begin to combat financial illiteracy it will kill the hopes and dreams of literally millions of African Americans with the will to make it.
Full financial literacy should practically link itself to viable strategies for true economic empowerment, conversion (converting a check cashing mentality into a bank account mentality, a renters mentality into a homeownership mentality, etc.) and ownership in low-wealth communities.
While Democrats and Republicans battle it out in Lansing over tax increases let it be known if we truly want to eradicate poverty, if we truly want to create social change, if we truly want to make a difference in our community, we cannot do it on a partisan political basis. This may be bad news for some. But if we look at the social movers of our times -- Gandhi, King, Cesar Chavez, Mother Teresa -- respectfully, none were politicians. They were moral leaders who had the vision and a passion to make a difference.
This of course is not to say that political leadership is not important, but frankly, just the opposite. Not JUST political leadership, and surely more than just partisan political leadership, is needed for our true emergence as a people. Having strong spirit-centered leadership throughout the Black community, starting in our homes and in our individual lives, helps and strengthens our political leadership in Lansing.
So if we want to make a change, we have to do something really difficult. We have to work together; Democrats and Republicans, blacks and whites, conservatives and liberals. We have to find a common ground.
In our Network when we talk about Genesis we teach people to believe in themselves. We do not conduct business with companies, governments, or organizations; we do business with people. Not just any type of business but business that will help transform urban ghettos into Christian communities.
The 20th century was about race and the color line. The 21st century is going to be about class and poverty. According to CNN, half of all Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. This is a 2001 report. By 2004, this figure was 70% living from paycheck to paycheck. There are more poor whites in America than poor anybody else. Do not let anybody tell you anything different.
We have to focus on spiritual wealth, emotional wealth, economic wealth, and especially educational wealth. Education is the ultimate poverty eradication tool. When you know better, you tend to do better!
It is not about making more money; it is about making better decisions with the money you make. You can make three million dollars and still spend five million. It does not matter.
If our elected officials in Lansing understood this simple concept we would not be sitting here talking about
Friday, August 31, 2007
Where we stand....Again...It's the Principality.
Considering the many emails I receive due to recent postings, I am asked, "What does principality clothing believe in?" Are you democrat or republican? Who is the principality choice for 08?
Principality Clothing believes in the American dream and the values of freedom our founders held so dear:
1. God
2. Family
3. Fortitude
4. Property
5. Freedom
What has happened to these core values that once made this nation great? Trending towards open secularism will only continue the decay of our founders legacy. Dependence on the state to handle matters best left to families in their own homes will also have the same effect.
We Believe To:
Dubiously undertaking the task to return our country to days of glory where the family unit wielded power similar to the strong central government we are burdened with currently.
Expressive Individualism in this context created the America foreigners crave to belong. So we despise this trait? Openly, the acceptance of separation of church and state as if the Almighty directly expressed this doctrine. We do not support this idea and hold true strong moral guidance, unlike civil, will create the America that is for America.
Principality Clothing will not hold true:
To the victimology belief plaguing minority communities be it from slavery, inequality, class struggles. The essence of freedom cannot co-exist with cultural race based distinctions leading directly to positive/negative results. Allowing others to dictate our autonomy will force the minority into complacency.
Firmly We Stand:
To protect the power of the individual in Gods image, the free markets and all that is right and true. Dissecting arguments based on subjective arguments that have somehow led our nation into the dark.
Recently as I pay attention to the news and current events I am shocked. Some might say "Shocked and Awed". Shocked over the huge polarizing topics that, by this point, need to be addressed in an open forum that will not be upheld to political influences.
Awed that this isn't happening.
Principality Clothing believes in the American dream and the values of freedom our founders held so dear:
1. God
2. Family
3. Fortitude
4. Property
5. Freedom
What has happened to these core values that once made this nation great? Trending towards open secularism will only continue the decay of our founders legacy. Dependence on the state to handle matters best left to families in their own homes will also have the same effect.
We Believe To:
Dubiously undertaking the task to return our country to days of glory where the family unit wielded power similar to the strong central government we are burdened with currently.
Expressive Individualism in this context created the America foreigners crave to belong. So we despise this trait? Openly, the acceptance of separation of church and state as if the Almighty directly expressed this doctrine. We do not support this idea and hold true strong moral guidance, unlike civil, will create the America that is for America.
Principality Clothing will not hold true:
To the victimology belief plaguing minority communities be it from slavery, inequality, class struggles. The essence of freedom cannot co-exist with cultural race based distinctions leading directly to positive/negative results. Allowing others to dictate our autonomy will force the minority into complacency.
Firmly We Stand:
To protect the power of the individual in Gods image, the free markets and all that is right and true. Dissecting arguments based on subjective arguments that have somehow led our nation into the dark.
Recently as I pay attention to the news and current events I am shocked. Some might say "Shocked and Awed". Shocked over the huge polarizing topics that, by this point, need to be addressed in an open forum that will not be upheld to political influences.
Awed that this isn't happening.
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