Troy

Cynique it can all be part of the same game. Kayne's celebrity and that of his baby's mama is not an accident, it is orchestrated; there is a machine, behind it. I would not be surprised, in the least, if this latest Kayne rumor was planned as well--turning Mandela' death into a publicity stunt. I'm I "out cynnicing" the cynic here? I'm not a fan of Kanye's either, but to me this is one of those instances where I don't hate the player, I hate the game. He should also listen to his own lyrics

Yes someone made this all up. It happens all the time. The only reason I discovered it was fake was that I tried to find the source I could not. Eventually I came across Kayne's denial: "Despite recent media reports, I've never said anything to dishonor or trivialize the life or transition of one of the most inspiring leaders--KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) (December 9, 2013) As outrageous the statements were, coming from a Kanye West it sounds perfectly plausible as something he would say. But since we have children at the controls and journalist greeting us at Walmart "legitimate" news sources picks this crap up and it goes viral. Of course the social media further compounds the situation, so much so that the truth gets drowned out (not that anyone cares about the truth). Everyone in their haste to be the first to share, and garner the fleeting, but lucrative surge in traffic posts the information without vetting it. Even when they are wrong the just say, "oops" and we forget all about it. This is one example of my strongest critiques of how the net has changed adversely. It has gotten to the point that I really don't believe anything I find on-line unless it is coming directly from the source.

Cynique, from what I can tell this is a fake story. From Wikipedia to Facebook, an alarming amount of what we read on-line is simply wrong. Lies always spread more quickly than truth, but on-line the effects are hyper-exaggerated. For Kayne the controversy fuels his fame, for the rest of us, God only knows.... Below one of the various versions of what Kanye was reported as saying: In an interview with WGCI radio in Chicago, the notoriously self-promoting rapper said that yesterday's death of the 95-year-old South African leader will finally allow people to focus more of their attention on West's own accomplishments. West was asked who he thought on the world stage today could possibly replace Nelson Mandela in terms of leadership, and his unconventional answer left heads spinning. "I am the next Nelson Mandela," West responded. "I'm only 36 years old, and when I look at everything I've accomplished, it's the only comparison that makes any sense. By the time I'm 95, I'm going to be a bigger hero than he ever was. "Nelson Mandela did a lot of good work, don't get me wrong. But I think I'm on track to do something even bigger. I liberate minds with my music. That's more important than liberating a few people from apartheid or whatever. "Not to say Mandela wasn't for real. I have mad respect. I just think we need to keep things in perspective here. Anyone can be replaced. And I think I'm well on my way towards being the next great black leader. I'm already worshiped around the world. And there's more to come." "I've blazed a trail with my career," West responded. "I faced immeasurable racism when I entered this profession. I mean how many black rappers can you name that came before me? I was a pioneer. And now I'm doing the same thing in the fashion world. "Not to mention I have a bigger market than he ever did. Mandela was working in South Africa, which has, like what, six people? I started my magic here in the USA and then I took my business global. Worldwide baby. "I just want everyone out there to know. I see y'all crying on the TV. Being all sad. Just know that Kanye's gonna carry on Mandela's legacy. There's nothing to worry about. I got this."

Hi Carolita congrats on your book. Given all of the favorable reviews I saw posted on Amazon: http://amzn.to/revengeofa you were pretty modest in touting your book :-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0JAKEDDTvU Winnie Mandela bannished & banned to Brandfort. Interviewed by SA documentary filmmaker Kevin Harris for his 1983 documentary: "No Middle Road To Freedom".

Hey Gibran here is a short link you can use to send people to Amazon: http://amzn.to/coochie3 I'll add this book to your AALBC.com Page and link to this excerpt here. Thanks for sharing info about your new book.

New Book "On The Shoulders of Giants" is a Captivating Introduction to African American History For Young Adults Brooklyn, NY (June 23, 2013) -- Using a blend of compelling characters and events, On the Shoulders of Giants by Orey Brockington, III (Brockington Enterprise, June 2013), is a must read for young adults interested in learning about the dramatic events and heroes of African-American history, and a superb choice for social studies teachers and school libraries. Brockington's rich but concise narrative recalls both tragic and heroic events in African-American history from the 1600's to the present. Additionally, the book offers young adults and middle-school students of African-American heritage an invaluable lesson about self-love. "In light of the violence, poverty, and all too often failing schools pervasive in African-American communities," says Brockington. "On the Shoulders of Giants will enlighten some and remind others of the pivotal events in the history of the struggles and sacrifices African-Americans have made to advance civil rights." Brockington's poignant - but straightforward narrative - relates the stories of the heroes who selflessly fought for freedom, civil rights, and a life of opportunity for their children. The author never succumbs to sentimentality, which makes the book ever more powerful. Inspired by "growing suicide rates, depression, and an education system that is failing our children," explains Brockington, his book is intended to help readers to apply the lessons of the past to help them overcome problems and to be inspired and empowered about their own futures. On the Shoulders of Giants serves as an invaluable resource for educators in an educational environment that overwhelmingly glosses over, or ignores, African-American history. About the Author: Naturally motivated and proactive, the Grambling State University-educated Orey Brockington, III has always been busy making positive contributions to society. When Brockington sees a need, he tries to help fill it. His industrious nature has led to many successes and the launching of new projects. He has used his instinctual innovation and marketing experience to reach a universal audience through his products. The New York native currently resides in Brooklyn, where he serves as an influential mentor by way of his community service and church related activities. On the Shoulders of Giants is available through Amazon. About the Book: On the Shoulders of Giants by Orey Brockington, III Published by: Brockington Enterprises ISBN: 978-0-9895019-0-3 Pages: 80 Price: $19.99 Pub Date: June 2013 PRESS CONTACT: Orey Brockington III (917) 653-0088 oreybrockington@gmail.com

Congrats on your new book D.C.

http://bit.ly/theconver

I guess I find it funny because it just epitomizes the absurdity of "high" fashion. But on a more practical matter these super high heeled shoes are simply bad for you. How many women have I seen, often overweight who have to pack a pair a flat shoes to wear home after attending an event in 5 inch heals... I'm glad men have no pressure to wear shoes that are just bad for your feet. The days of hammer toes from wearing pointy shoes are long gone. We don't have to worry about processing our hair, painting our faces, or showing up to an event wearing the same suit.

Yeah these short days are the least favorite time of the year for me. Well from planet's perspective we are just a blip on the radar. We will destroy yourselves and Earth will cleanse itself our existence, leaving no record we were ever here. The Dinosaurs lasted over 100 millions of years. It would be remarkable if humanity lasted as fraction of that. Even 100 million years is merely a heart beat in the life of our big blue marble...

THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF SLAM, LAUNCHING A 4-DAY MASTERCLASS SERIES WITH AWARD-WINNING FILMMAKER MARC LEVIN (DECEMBER 5-8, 2013) Tonight the Maysles Cinema brings you the film that captivated critics and judges from Sundance to Cannes and turned slam poetry into the global phenomenon it is today: Marc Levin's SLAM. Join acclaimed poet and performer Saul Williams, Sonja Sohn (of The Wire), Bonz Malone, Bob Holman, Liza Jessie Peterson, Richard Stratton and Marc Levin at the Dempsey Auditorium in Harlem (127 W. 127th Street) for the 15th Anniversary of this seminal film and the first gathering of the talent behind it since 1998. The discussion will be moderated by hip-hop turntablist, composer and author, DJ Spooky and the film will be introduced by actor Michael K. Williams (The Wire and Boardwalk Empire). Everything kicks off at 7:00pm! In the nights to follow, the Maysles Cinema will journey back through Levin's decades of documentary and realist-fiction filmmaking with works that explore defining themes in our collective psyche: race, class, politics, religion and urban identity-themes that provide a lens through which to examine social and cultural dynamics at every level in modern America. In addition to SLAM, the Masterclass will include the following screenings: WHITEBOYZ, a humorous take on the no man's land where black and white meet in popular culture; GANG WARS: BANGIN' IN LITTLE ROCK and its follow-up; a preview of Levin's in-progress documentary FREEWAY: CRACK IN THE SYSTEM, followed by MR. UNTOUCHABLE, for a look at the world of gangster capitalism through the stories of real American Gangsters, LA's "Freeway" Rick Ross and Harlem's own Nicky Barnes; clips from BRICK CITY, CAPTURED and CHICAGOLAND, as part of Sunday's session on Documenting Urban America; and PROTOCOLS OF ZION, Levin's journey to unfold the ancient conspiracy theory that re-emerged after 9/11: blame it on the Jews. Stars, producers and writers from each film will join Levin for post-screening Q&As, including Piper Perabo (of USA's hit series Covert Affairs), who was cast in WHITEBOYZ shortly after graduating from college. "Freeway" Rick Ross, who stood at the center of crack epidemic and CIA/Contra/Cocaine connection, and Joseph "Jazz" Hayden, an original member of Nicky Barnes' Heroin Council, will also join us for the FREEWAY: CRACK IN THE SYSTEM & MR.UNTOUCHABLE evening-two generations of drug kingpins turned activists, live in the same program. The full schedule with speakers can be found below. Levin has a long and influential history with Al and David Maysles going back 1970, when he worked as an apprentice editor on their rockumentary classic, GIMME SHELTER. "In those few seconds when a young black man is stabbed by a Hells Angel, violence, music, sex, drugs, race, gangs and politics all collided," says Levin. "The impact was profound, historically and personally. The Maysles helped birth the independent film community here in New York, paving the way for the raw, authentic aesthetic that's inspired me and so many others. It is an honor to reconnect with Al and to present my work in his house." For film series details and advance ticketing: www.maysles.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/MayslesCinema Twitter: @MayslesCinema About Marc Levin Marc Levin is an independent film producer and director. He is best known for his dramatic feature film SLAM, which won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival and the Camera D'Or at Cannes in 1998, as well as his BRICK CITY TV series, which won the 2010 Peabody Award and was nominated for an Emmy for Exceptional Merit in Nonfiction Filmmaking. He has also received three Emmy Awards and four duPont-Columbia Awards. To learn more, visit www.blowbackproductions.com and www.brickcitytv.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blowbackproductions About the Maysles Documentary Center: The Maysles Documentary Center, a not-for-profit organization, is dedicated to the exhibition and production of documentary films that inspire dialogue and action. Through the Maysles Cinema and education programs, we engage diverse communities in creative self-expression, communicating ideas and advocating needs. Please note: All Masterclass: Marc Levin screenings will be held at the Maysles Cinema (343 Lenox Avenue between 127th and 128th Streets) except for Slam: A 15th Anniversary Celebration which will be held at the Dempsey Auditorium at 127 W. 127th Street near Lenox Avenue. Thursday, December 5th-Sunday, December 8th Masterclass: Marc Levin (Identifying and surveying exemplary careers in documentary production through an expansive lens.) Thursday, December 5th, 7:00pm @ the Dempsey Auditorium (127 West 127th street) Slam: A 15th Anniversary Celebration 7:00pm Performance: Darian Dauchan Samantha Thornhill Jon Sands 7:30pm Slam Introduced by Michael K. Williams (The Wire, Boardwalk Empire) Marc Levin, 1998, 100 min. Filmmaker Marc Levin won the Grand Jury Prize at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival and the Camera d'Or at Cannes for his feature dramatic directorial debut that helped catalyze the global spoken word movement. Slam, starring Saul Williams, Sonja Sohn (of "The Wire") and Bonz Malone, is a prison drama about a young black poet jailed on minor drug charges, who uses his gift with words to regain his freedom. Real-life poets Williams and Sohn wrote their own material. Of the film, Hollywood Reporter wrote, "Brace yourself for a slam-dunk of a movie, in an in-your-face cinema verite-style that makes Godard's 'Breathless' seem like a cartoon." Slam was produced by Levin, New York nightclub owner Henri Kessler, and Prison Life magazine founder Richard Stratton, who spent eight years in prison on marijuana charges. Levin first encountered Williams during a 1996 poetry reading at New York's Nuyorican Poets Cafe. 9:15pm Q&A with Saul Williams, Sonja Sohn, Bonz Malone, Bob Holman, Richard Stratton, Liza Jessie Peterson, Marc Levin and DJ Spooky moderating. Trailer Friday, December 6th, 7:30pm Whiteboyz Marc Levin, 1999, 92 min. Whiteboyz is a black white comedy (or a white black comedy depending how you see it) starring Danny Hoch, Piper Perabo, Dash Mihok, and Mark Webber, and featuring rapper Snoop Dogg. Written by Garth Belcon, Richard Stratton, and Hoch--known for his acclaimed one-man shows Jails, Hospitals & Hip Hop and Some People-Whiteboyz takes a fresh, off-beat look at race and urban culture, as it follows three white Iowa teenagers dreaming of gansta rap stardom. Fat Joe, Dead Prez, Mic Geronimo, Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh also appear in the film. Q&A with Danny Hoch, Marc Levin, Piper Perabo, Garth Belcon, and Richard Stratton. Saturday, December 7th, 4:00pm Gang War: Bangin' in Little Rock Marc Levin, 1994, 60 min. Back in the Hood: Gang War 2 Marc Levin, 2004, 53 min. Gang wars in sleepy Little Rock, Arkansas, home of newly elected President Clinton? Gang War: Bangin' in Little Rock is the HBO documentary that shocked the country, sounding the startling wake-up call that the gangs of LA and Chicago had metastasized to middle America. Made possible by unprecedented access to major figures on the scene, Gang War offers an unflinching look into the lives of local boys and girls, (black and white) who claim to be "G"s for life. Back in the Hood: Gang War 2 follows Leifel Jackson, one-time leader of the OGCs (Original Gangster Crips), as he is released from prison after almost a decade behind bars. Q&A with producers Daphne Pinkerson and Michael Skolnik, Director Marc Levin, and Gang War subjects Leifel Jackson (via Skype) and Steve Nawojczyk (via Skype). 7:30pm Preview of "Freeway: Crack in the System," Marc Levin's forthcoming feature documentary The real Rick Ross is not a rapper. He's an urban legend in South Central LA, a black godfather figure whom most people have never seen, but know by name and reputation. He's "Freeway" Rick Ross, the man who stood at the center of the crack epidemic, and whose name has been inextricably linked to the CIA-Contra-Crack connection. His story defies all odds and stereotypes and proves that truth is indeed stranger than fiction. Mr. Untouchable Marc Levin, 2007, 92 min. This is the story of the real American gangster--Harlem's godfather, the biggest black drug kingpin in the history of New York City--Nicky Barnes. Featuring exclusive interviews with Barnes for the first time since receiving his life sentence, Mr. Untouchable is the true-life story of a junkie turned multimillionaire drug lord, who came to dominate the heroin distribution business and build his own powerful crime family. Q&A with Marc Levin, Joseph 'Jazz' Hayden (former Nicky Barnes associate, Mr. Untouchable subject), and 'Freeway' Rick Ross (via Skype) followed by a reception. Sunday, December 8th, 4:00pm Documenting Urban America: A Masterclass with Marc Levin, Mark Benjamin, and Dan Levin This masterclass is all about looking through the lens of the street, exposing the gritty, raw reality, and celebrating it as the incubator of America's popular culture. It's about capturing a naked truth--sometimes beautiful, sometimes brutal--and giving a voice to the voiceless. The conversation will focus on how to shape and style these urban stories and characters in a way that reaches a broad audience without sacrificing authenticity. Clips to be shown: Brick City, Captured, CHICAGOLAND, the forthcoming docu-series for CNN. 7:30pm Protocols of Zion Marc Levin, 2005, 95 min. After the twin towers fell twelve years ago on September 11th, an outlandish and bigoted rumor rose up that claimed that no Jews had died in the attack. Marc Levin first came upon this in a conversation with an Egyptian taxi driver, who said that all Jews had been warned to stay home that day and that everything was written in the 100-year-old book, "The Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion." How could this discredited forgery fuel this resurgence of post-9/11 anti-semitism across the globe? In the film, Levin talks with Black Nationalists, Arab Americans, Kabbalist Rabbis, and the founder of the website Jew Watch, among others, in an attempt to understand the roots of this virulent and outrageous strain of anti-semitism. Q&A with Marc Levin and Albert Maysles. Want to Become a Maysles Cinema Founding Member? Enjoy great benefits including free admission to all Maysles Cinema Screenings. Please visit our website for more information Maysles Cinema Membership To see our calendar and find out more about films screening later this month, please visit our website: Maysles Cinema Calendar Suggested $10 donation at the door for all screenings but no one is turned away for lack of funds. Press comps are also always available for members of the press. The Maysles Institute is made possible with public funds from the New York State Council for the Arts (NYSCA) and the Union Square Awards. Maysles Cinema 343 Lenox Ave (127th and 128th streets) New York, NY 10027 The Maysles Cinema was founded by documentary filmmaker Albert Maysles and is directed by Jessica Green.

The Contradictions of Fair Hope is a new documentary film directed by S. Epatha Merkerson and Rockell Metcalf In July of 1865. Over 4 million slaves have been freed. Forced to roam the antebellum countryside, many of them are ill prepared and unable to cope with the realities of their new-found freedom. This documentary examines a little known aspect of American history, when newly freed slaves throughout the South formed “benevolent societies” to respond to abject hunger, illness and the fear of a pauper’s grave. The documentary sets the stage in rural Alabama, prior to Emancipation, and traces the development, struggles, contributions and gradual loss of tradition of one of the last remaining African American benevolent societies, known as “The Fair Hope Benevolent Society” in Uniontown, Alabama. Through gripping human stories of some of the last surviving society members and interviews with historians and local residents, the film provides an unprecedented look at the complex and morally ambiguous world of Fair Hope juxtaposed against the worldly pleasures of what has become known as the annual “Foot Wash” celebration. "Foot Wash celebration" is a euphemism for an off-the-chain festival in the woods, attended by up to 100,000 people. One can buy BBQ, tee-shirts, fried snickers candy bars and all the things you would expected to be able to buy during events like this. What makes Foot Wash so wild are the rampant illegal activities that it is known for; including drug sales and prostitution. The film makers said they were interested in explaining how benevolent societies, in general, helped Black communities after the end of Slavery, by providing aid to the sick or providing money for burial to it's members. Later as insurance companies began to cover Black people benevolent societies started to die out. The Fair Hope Christian Benevolent Society is one of the few that remain and is almost 130 years old. The "contradiction" comes in as the filmmakers try to reconcile how "Foot Wash" came from the Fair Hope Christian Benevolent Society. Here is the trailer from the film Learn more about the documentary film The Contradictions of Fair Hope Here is another short video from the perspective of some other attendees On Youtube you can find many more graphic displays of the activities at Foot Wash. This so called "contradiction" in the film is the American story.

Readers have placed The Last Sunday by author, Terry E. Hill, on Black Expressions Bestsellers List. Black Expressions is one of the largest online book clubs targeting the African American consumers. Many readers are comparing Hill to the late E. Lynn Harris whose popular books chronicle the lives of "Down Low" African American men. Hill is one of few writers that has been able to capture the interest of the large African American book buying market with a story that revolves around a same sex relationship. Come Sunday Morning is his first novel and the first book in the Sunday Morning Trilogy. The sequel, When Sunday Comes Again, was released at the end of 2012 and was selected by the Sankofa Literary Society as number 3 of the 5 best fiction books of 2012. The finale, The Last Sunday, was released in October 2013. The subject matter has resonated with readers because it mirrors several high profile scandals in prominent mega churches. In Come Sunday Morning a beautiful pastor’s wife, Samantha Cleaveland, arranges the assassination of her husband Hezekiah T. Cleaveland in the pulpit of their mega church after learning of his homosexual affair. The story continues in the sequels with Samantha being challenged by people who suspect she played a role in her husband’s death. Book reviews and more about Terry E. Hill can be found at: http://aalbc.it/terryehill Harry Brown I could not help but think about you when posting this ;-)

Sure religion gives people something to believe in which sustains them, but that is not all. Religion, perhaps more importantly, gives people a code of ethics and standards of behavior which are crucial to the success of the individual, the family and our community. Now those standards of behavior are unlikely to be achieved by anyone, but they set a bar for which we strove. Today we really don't seem to have any code of ethics. Seemingly anything goes. We use any language we want anywhere, we dress any way we want and we don't seem to be able to form and maintain cohesive families. We struggle in terms of education, employment and business creation. Harry I believe your rants against religion are misdirected. Religion is not the problem. Evil, greedy people are they problem. They will pervert any an everything to enrich themselves. Religion and our culture are the casualties. The book you recommended is indeed a classic. Slave Religion: The "Invisible Institution" in the Antebellum South Originally Published 1978 Publisher: Oxford University Press Pages: 416 Twenty-five years after its original publication, Slave Religion remains a classic in the study of African American history and religion. In a new chapter in this anniversary edition, author Albert J. Raboteau reflects upon the origins of the book, the reactions to it over the past twenty-five years, and how he would write it differently today. Using a variety of first and second-hand sources-- some objective, some personal, all riveting-- Raboteau analyzes the transformation of the African religions into evangelical Christianity. He presents the narratives of the slaves themselves, as well as missionary reports, travel accounts, folklore, black autobiographies, and the journals of white observers to describe the day-to-day religious life in the slave communities. Slave Religion is a must-read for anyone wanting a full picture of this "invisible institution." I The African heritage 1 The African diaspora 2 Death of the gods II "The invisible institution" 3 Catechesis and conversion 4 The rule of gospel order 5 Religious life in the slave community 6 Religion, rebellion, and docility Conclusion: Canaan land Read a Free Preview

I just published Kam's Review of Long Walk to Freedom -- coincidentally he did mention that this film was far superior to the flick Winnie Madela which came out a few months ago. I also published his interview with co-star Naomi Harris.

I suspect the British actors Idris Elba, as Nelson Mandela and Naomie Harris as Winnie Mandela will submit better performances than the Americans Terrance Howard and Jennifer Hudson did in the same roles in the film Winnie Mandela, which came out in September.

Ann Coulter is a trip. Her interview with our Kam Williams had me laughing out loud. She is irreverent and quick witted for sure. Over the years I've published hundreds of interviews Kam has performed. Kam usually asks a series of canned questions like: "If you only had 24 hours to live, how would you spend the time?" Most people say something like, "spend the time with loved ones and family". Ann's response, "Waiting in line for my Obamacare doctor." Of this question, If you could have a superpower, which one would you choose? Most people say, The ability to "fly" or "invisibility". Ann's response, "The USA." I hadn't really realized the canned questions are only interesting when someone provides a very different response. Ann's responses were funny and refreshing. You can read the full interview with Kam Williams here Of course a great many people have negative things to say, Kevin Powell called her, "Un-American and Very Dangerous Mind." In fact even Kam, in his review of Mugged, described Ann as, "...a politically-incorrect, right-wing zealot unafraid to play the race card." I think Ann epitomizes the very essence of what it means to be an American: She has taken her "All American" looks and controversy and ridden it all the way to the bank. A true American success story. That is how it works in the good 'ole U. S. of A. This video from The Boondocks is on point :-)

I've uploaded 11 of the 20 finalists readings. I posted my favorite four reading on my blog.

I watched Tyson's Undisputed Truth on HBO the other night. I did not find it entertaining, in fact I could not finish watching it. The anecdotes were not funny to me. The stories were rather tragic and sad. I know Mike is getting paid and that is great, but It seems like Iron Mike is being exploited and I don't particularly care for that.

Ishmael Reed wrote this article in today's Wall Street Journal Much of the article deals with the importance of the American Book Awards (ABA) in contrast to the National Book Awards (NBA). Reed describes the American Book Awards as more inclusive. The early days of the 34-year-old award as follows: "We held our first awards ceremony at The West Side Community Center through the arrangement of poet and Miles Davis biographer Quincy Troupe. Among that first group of winners, in nineteen eighty, was the late poet Jayne Cortez. Joseph Papp, director of the Public Theater, sponsored the second annual awards.The event was hosted by Troupe. Among the presenters were Donald Barthelme and Toni Morrison, a future ABA winner(1988). Among those in the audience was former New Jersey poet laureate Amiri Baraka,who would also receive an award from us in 1984. Famed South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela, and the late hoofer, Howard “Sandman” Sims were among those who provided the entertainment." That sounds great. But the ABA current winners does not seem to reflect the same level of inclusiveness. In fact, one might argue with the NBA having Toni Morrison present Maya Angelou with an award and giving James McBride top honors in the fiction category that there may have even been a reversal in terms of inclusiveness -- at least as far as Black folks are concerned. In either case it is not clear to me at either affair serves the Black community significantly on any level. I'm not blaming the organizers of either event. The issue is complex. The American Book Awards were be held as part of the Miami Book Fair International (an event I would love to attend one day). The 2013 American Book Award Winners: Will Alexander, Singing In Magnetic Hoofbeat: Essays, Prose, Texts, Interviews, and a Lecture, Essay Press Philip P. Choy, San Francisco Chinatown: A Guide To Its History & Architecture, City Lights Amanda Coplin, The Orchardist, Harper Collins Natalie Diaz, When My Brother Was An Aztec, Copper Canyon Press Louise Erdrich, The Round House, Harper Collins Alan Gilbert, Black Patriots and Loyalists: Fighting for Emancipation in the War for Independence, University of Chicago Judy Grahn, A Simple Revolution: The Making of an Activist Poet, Aunt Lute Books Joy Harjo, Crazy Brave: A Memoir, W.W. Norton & Co. Demetria Martinez, The Block Captain’s Daughter, University of Oklahoma Press Daniel Abdal-Hayy Moore, Blood Songs, The Ecstatic Exchange D. G. Nanouk Okpik, Corpse Whale, University of Arizona Press Seth Rosenfeld, Subversives: The FBI’s War On Student Radical and Reagan’s Rise to Power, Farrar, Strauss & Giroux Christopher B. Teuton, Cherokee Stories of the Turtle Island Liar’s Club, University of North Carolina Lew Welch, Ring of Bone: Collected Poems, City Lights Lifetime Achievement: Ivan Argüelles Greil Marcus Floyd Salas More About the American Book Awards The American Book Awards Program respects and honors excellence in American literature without restriction or bias with regard to race, sex, creed, cultural origin, size of press or ad budget, or even genre. There would be no requirements, restrictions, limitations, or second places. There would be no categories (i.e., no “best” novel or only one “best” of anything). The winners would not selected by any set quota for diversity (nor would “mainstream white anglo male” authors be excluded), because diversity happens naturally. Finally, there would be no losers, only winners. The only criteria would be outstanding contribution to American literature in the opinion of the judges.

The latest African American Literature Book Club newsletter is out - full of book reviews, author profiles, film reviews, interviews and more. Read it and share it.

How the government could screw up the website is almost bewildering. Clearly they were aware that the opposition was looking for any excuse to call affordable health care a failure. But I guess all the good developers are working for Amazon and Google. One thing I truly wish the government would get through their thick skulls is that everyone does not have a desktop computer with a high speed connection to the internet at home. They make it sound so easy, but for MANY people their only access to the internet is through their cell phone. A lot of people don't have, or even want, an email address. The task of doing everything from looking for work, applying to college, paying taxes, and signing up for health care is very difficult for a great many people. Of course Black people are most effected. So unless this website system is fast, super intuitive and easily accessible from any computer (a friend's, the library's), people will have difficulty. Needless to say the people without a health insurance are the ones most likely to have challenges accessing and using the website. I just visited the site https://www.healthcare.gov/ for the first time and it is down for maintenance. Since I'm in New York the system directed me to NY State's website. It too is down due to maintenance until at least 8AM. Both system say you can apply via phone -- I can't image that would be much better, for I presume the person on the other end of the line has to use the same system. ...and that does not even address the data integrity problems, people who were forced lose existing plans. In New York many of the best hospitals, like Memorial Sloan-Kettering, won't accept any of the plans offered. Universal healthcare is a good idea. It would seem like the US with all its resources could figure it out and get it done. The same country that can get a billion people on a social media site and put a Buick on Mars can't figure out how to take care of it's population. Obama promised a great deal with his message of "hope and change." Sadly the people -- save Obama’s black constituency who apparently are happy just to have a Black family in the White House -- expected even more. We got the change, but it was not what we hoped for...

Here are all of my videos from the National Book Awards events: http://aalbc.it/nbaward

It was a good night. But I'm beat... it has been a busy week.