The Green Collar Economy

If you don't know, you should read up on Brother Van Jones. He's got something to say about poverty and environmentalism. Yep, I said the same thing. How are these two concepts related? He seems to offer an interesting perspective. I caught this while reading the bestseller book section of the New York Times. The focus of this book is not about merely recycling your trash (***Not preaching but WE need to help keep the world clean also**). It's a call to action for all people, cutting across race and class. Since many of our manufacturing jobs are going over seas, it's leaving huge potholes in communities around the country. This hits home with me as I saw my entire family lose their jobs in the closing of a Burlington manufacturing plant in my home town (over 700 jobs lost). The effects of this shutdown is still being felt (increase in drug related crimes,murders,clinical depression,etc..)
Van Jones' thought is to provide training so people can get the necessary skills that helps them secure jobs associated with improving the environment (i.e. solar panel installs,weatherzing homes). It's a great idea!

Nope, I haven't read it but after our next two reads are done, amazon.com here I come. If you're interested in reading more on Mr. Jones and the cause, check out his GreenForAll blog.

Debate #3 - Thoughts?

That John McCain. Is he angry or what!?

Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys

Well, I'm sure brother Ashe would be proud. Yep, I'm a fan of non-fiction books.
I recently read the first and second volume of Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys. Jawanza Kunjufu is speaking the truth. There are some concepts I wholeheartedly agree with and others where we disagree(hip-hop). I purchased the books from a small book shop called "One Force Bookstore" a while back. Overall, the books are very engaging, but what's amazing is how this topic can even be applied to "grown black men". Why? Well, the book focuses on peer groups and how they can possibly influence decisions in a young black male's life. It made me think back to a conversation during my first book club discussion. Brothers shared some of their struggles on getting black brothers to possibly join a book club. (Shhhhh!!, you're in a book club.. for men.. and you read) Even though we laughed at some of the examples provided, it made me seriously think. Are black men more likely to participate in an athletic gathering versus one that challenges the mind/thought? if so where does this process begin.. In "Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys", the author suggest it starts with peer groups and school. in both circles, athleticism is favored over education (honor roll, debate teams, etc..) I would say it continues to play out well into adulthood.
I could go on and on. I would suggest that everyone pick up a copy of the book (Again, somethings will apply and others you can just toss out the window). The books are very quick reads (70 to 80 pages max). Also, check out some of his speaking engagements:

Voting Drama - Already!!!

Wow, only in America can this type of stuff happen!

That's right, Black Enterprise recently ran an article about the absentee ballot mix in Rensselaer County, N.Y. Some 300 + absentee ballots were sent out with the wrong name. How does this happen? I personally cannot see this as merely being a mistake. Is it meant to cause confusion? Similiar to the mess we had right here in our backyard (Chesterfield County-ballot shortage). Why must this "drama" happen when we're trying to push for serious change? Can we all say "Checks and Balances"? Election Commissioners/Registrars need to step up their game or run the risk of being demoted/fired (too bad they are appointed).



Soo... in parting, I encourage everyone to check out the following site (this is only for my fellow Virginians) https://www.voterinfo.sbe.virginia.gov/PublicSite/Public/FT2/PublicLookup.aspx?Link=Registration

This site will allow you to double check your Voter Registration as well as preview the upcoming election ballot. Let's use the technology to our advantage.

Kehinde Wiley Presents The World Stage: Africa, Lagos ~ Dakar @ Studio Museum

If you get a chance, I would highly recommend you taking a trip up to 125th and Malcolm X boulevard. That's right, Harlem New York. Here you will find the home of Studio Museum which is currently exhibiting the art of Kehinde Wiley. I took a recent visit here this weekend and was simply blown away by this artist. His show is entitled "The World Stage: Africa, Lagos ~ Dakar"
I'm sure you'll be amazed at this artist ability to bring life to the canvas.

Vote For Change - November 4th

Well, October 6th was the last day to register to vote in the state of Virginia.

WE NEED MASSIVE CHANGES!

ENCOURAGE EVERY REGISTERED VOTER TO COME OUT ON NOV 4th TO VOTE!!!!!!
VOTEFORCHANGE.COM

Some states have already begun early voting! Get there early because I know we don’t want another 8 more years of what's currently happening on the "HILL"!