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Well, before I answer you, may I ask why you DELETED the damn post? Yeah, exactly...because the responses were NOT the ones you were expecting. THAT IS WHY I thought it was a bad move.

[Miss Camarel]: "This post was created by a person about himself and although I think it's a bad move, a stupid one infact to blast it all over the net" Excuse me, that's the second time you've said that but you have not said why that was a bad move. I mean, if that's your opinion, you still are responsible for your words. If it's something other than that, then pull my coat because I am alway open for a little wisdom. Show me your's, because I have no problem showing mine. And, I am cool with that. Really, what about you? Are you secure about who you are? I think the answer is obvious. Show me how I am wrong... on both issues. Maybe we all can learn a little something.

SMH @ this parched throat whore. WTF is your issue, clownola? This post was created by a person about himself and although I think it's a bad move, a stupid one infact to blast it all over the net, it WAS HIS TOPIC and you decide to plug yourself in his topic about addiction? You need your long ass face slapped. Real talk!

I have to agree with this. I'm not for censorship because I post at a number of forums and I have openly disagreed with the forum administrators and a few wimpy registered members who were complaining about arguments between different individuals. I felt as long as the posters were not being extremely profane, posting pornographic material or calculated images that were made to inflame, let them settle their differences. I really don't like censorship and micromanaging of the board. If the post or thread offends you, move on. You have the choice not to read threads or posts that you find boring or tedious. You don't have the right to shut down (by complaining to the administrator) a discussion simply because you are bored with it or you don't like the posters who are indulging. Now, I do believe a forum should have standards and reasonable civil expectations from the participants. I don't have a problem with that. But I don't like banning people (or shutting down a dialogue) simply because you disagree with them or because an individual doesn't like the tone or direction a heated discussion is going. I was on a popular black board a few years ago (now defunct) where the board administrator would ban you for disagreeing with him or if you posts were not racially correct. It was like walking on eggshells. If a number of posters did not politically agree with you, they would complain and that was that. Now mind you, no profanity, offensive language, vulgar threats or inappropriate images would be used by the alleged offending poster. But simply disagreeing with a cabal of Negro nudniks or debating the board administrator could get you banned. I seen it a number of times. That type of atmosphere does not exist here. But I do feel as of late, there has been a series of doofus spammers interjecting bullshit one liners. I'm hoping Troy reads this and shuts this particular guest feature down because I don't believe it is working as he intended. I believe he allowed this feature to jump start the board and perhaps get more participation. But unfortunately, it has left the back door open for the doofus spammers to leave their bird droppings all over the forum. Just my spin.....

Hello Kola, I know your voice. although many (most) may not understand, I am proud to say I WAS an addict. See, as you may know, only a minuscule percentage of individuals come out of that storm. Although I've been around hundreds of addicts (work with them) I can count on my 2 hands the number of people that made it to this side. The pain, that comes in many forms, is too much for most to bare. In that post, it was my attempt to give back what I've learned. No one really knows your pain, our pain, but frequently they are quick to make suggestions or give opinion that totally miss the point. Hence, the title of that poem "MISUNDERSTOOD". Also, there was a basic message in that piece. I suggested that when, and if a person can find the root of their "problems" they then can move forward to finding solutions. Emotions control us, and some individuals run from their emotions or can not identify them. Sh*t, running from my emotion kept me in my mess. Ive come to believe that when you give a smile, one generally will return. And, if you show a person your pain and struggles, they might release theirs. I am proud to say that I've been somewhere and I am not planning on going back there. Good luck in your new adventures. You are difinitely a warrior.

The question is who sponsors Tavis and why!!!!!!!!Tavis is filled with hate and jealousy for our president. He is the tea party's version of Glen Beck. His facial expression shows all the inner hate and mental distortions of our leader going on within him when he talks about President Obama. He is a true house nigger who is poisonous to my people. He is very dumb not to look at the whole picture and see things in a sensible context. He is ignorant to reality and sees himself as some grand illusion that can direct the fate of America from his chair with that distastetful tongue which he refuses to keep in his mouth when he host. Tavis is not a leader of anyone. has he ever said anything that make people want to move foward. NO!!!!! His agenda consist of only telling people to "hate" and deride the President. I MEAN, WHO IS HE TO DIRECT THE PRESIDENT FROM HIS LOWLY POSITION. TAVIS IS NOT A LEADER. If you think he is, put him in the place of Obama in your imagination. Or betyer, still, let's all vote for him next year to run for PRESIDENT OF BLACK AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! This is hilarious. Listen sweetie, you’re the one who is having a temper tantrum because people question you –not me! If you have a point, make it and move on. All the histrionics and whining for approval and recognition is not necessary. Your comments and posts are welcomed and encouraged. But your teenage drama and hysterical pleading for approval (or whatever you are desperate for) is unwarranted. Just make your point or commentary and be done with it. Ok.....?

I am to be counted among the small percentage of the population who harbors a simultaneous deep love and a heart-wrenching disappointment with my country. I can’t say that I hate my country by any stretch of the imagination because I adore the people, places, and events that have shaped my identity but to suggest that I have a God-Bless-America-Of-Thee-I-Sing blanket patriotism would be disingenuous as well. I love my nation but I see her flaws and shortcomings. I do not hate my country but I hate some of the aspects of it that taint its supposed greatness. I see myself first and foremost as a citizen of the world; my life and my story are reflected in the eyes of people from all around the globe. I’m not of the belief that man-made borders make the particular land I was born on more sacred; more deserving of peace, or that this soil somehow grants its inhabitants greater rights than any other human being. I can’t wear red, white, and blue colored glasses and wrap myself in Old Glory, blinded by visions of apple pie and baseball that distract me from the harsh realities of this country’s past, and present injustices. I live in a country that I willingly acknowledge affords me personal freedoms that I take for granted every minute of every day. I love that I have a constitutional right to practice any religion under the sun in this country. Hell, I can create my own religion, recruit members, and be tax-exempt in this country if I so choose and it’s perfectly legal and I don’t have to worship in secret or fear late night storming paratroopers arresting and torturing me for my beliefs. I detest the fact that the commonly held perception is that this is a Christian nation and that oppressive, repressed, and tyrannical religious zealots have decided that their moral misinterpretations of the bible are the standards by which I should be judged. The only voices considered valid in discussions of faith are those who claim that Christianity is the only, true, and right religion for America and that the vast majority of my fellow citizens have no respect for my first amendment rights to religious freedom. I love my country and the unparalleled sense of community and togetherness that arises when we face collective tragedy. I also love that I can speak my mind without fear of prosecution. I hate the fact that when I use my God-given common sense, logic, reason, research, and information to suggest that there are factors that surround September 11th that don’t add up, I’m persecuted and labeled a lunatic, conspiracy theorist, and unpatriotic. I will never forget the innocent lives lost on that fateful day but I don’t think those lives have more value than those lost during Hurricane Katrina or those lost en masse anywhere else in the world for that matter. I mourn for the families of those that died, and even those that survived but I recognize that millions upon millions of enslaved Africans who were kidnapped and enslaved and brought to this country have no monument, have no movie, no lobbyists in Congress, have no yellow ribbons on SUVs for their loss of life, liberty, and their pursuit of happiness. I feel safe in knowing that I have the right to own a gun to defend myself even though I have not even the tiniest inkling to do so. Gun violence has proven itself to be an epidemic in this country and radical militias are plotting at this moment to kill people like me because their particular brand of patriotism deems me expendable in their pursuit of a purer nation state so that safety seems a tad bit misplaced but I accept that I have the right to bear arms. I’d much rather live in a nation where differences are celebrated and respected, where people can live comfortably in their own skin without the need to try to control, dictate, or annihilate anyone who makes them mad or disagrees with them. I understand that there are nations in this world where I couldn’t even express my displeasure without imprisonment or worse so for that I love my country. I appreciate the fact that I can live freely as a woman in the United States without fear of having my genitals mutilated, state sanctioned rape, or being considered a second class citizen just because I possess a uterus. I’m troubled by the fact that I can’t turn on the television or radio without being insulted or denigrated for my gender. I hate the fact that misogyny is a multi-billion dollar form of entertainment in this country. Unlike some other places on earth, I have the right to love anyone I desire, regardless of their gender here. Regrettably, I don’t have a right to marry whom I choose because some people believe that I will infringe upon their heterosexual rights if I do. I’m not gay. I’m not even sure I will ever have an overwhelming need to get married again. I just can’t stomach the fact that a country that proclaims to want the tired, poor, and huddled masses from all over the world doesn’t have tolerance and acceptance for our very own neighbors who want to share in a committed, loving relationship with all the benefits and privileges thereof. The very same people who claim that homosexuals are immoral and promiscuous are the ones who are working to ensure that they can’t ascribe to matrimonial monogamy. It’s difficult to understand why in this great land, we can’t live and let live. I feel incredibly blessed to live in a country where I have a right to choose what to do with my reproductive body. Right to lifers in this country not only want to take my ability to control my body away from me, they also want to ensure that my child and I won’t have access to adequate affordable healthcare, housing, education, and opportunity. Their concern for my fetus ends when I give birth. Then, it becomes their mission to see that I’m denied every social benefit that ensures the well-being of my offspring and the community at large. It’s precisely that hypocrisy that infuriates me about the USA. There can be no question that the U.S. stands alone as the richest, most alluring country in the world. People from other nations see this as the Promised Land. It’s here they want to move and migrate in order to realize their dreams of wealth and prosperity with vision of streets of gold and the land of milk and honey. My country has laws in place to ensure that I don’t have to toil in a sweatshop for a month and only bring home $7.00. The United States protects my rights if I’m injured on the job, if an employer harasses me, if I lose my job, and when I retire. The people of the United States, a very large portion of them rather, want to demonize people who come to this country in pursuit of a better life in this country. The disdain and hatred for undocumented workers, who work in jobs no one else would want, who receive a mere pittance in exchange for back breaking labor, and who have no rights as even human beings let alone employees is was makes me ashamed of my country. With all the wealth, with all the resources this country has, the greed and selfishness of people who think there isn’t enough to go around and who actually feel justified in their beliefs that we should build a wall to prevent people from having access to providing for their families is despicable. I love that here in America I have access to museums and libraries and some of the best educational institutions in the world. I am incredibly blessed by the fact that my friends are from virtually every corner of the globe; I belong to a community of activists and artists who are passionate about fighting for justice, diversity, and truth. As an American citizen I can vote and participate in the political process however liberal my agendas. I hate that my ancestors had to shed their blood and in many instances, give their lives in order for me to be a part of that process. My heart soars that I could be a part of an election in a country with such an odious history of racism elected an altogether brilliant man of color to this nation’s highest office. I hate that racism is at the core of the right-wing criticisms against him. I love that I reside in a country where the freedom of speech is protected. I hate that Fox News isn’t seen for the hate-filled, racist, liars that they are and shut down with public outrage and a demand for more fair and accurate reporting. I love the sweet summer peaches of Georgia and the electricity of New York City at 4 a.m. I love the heartbeat of Washington D.C. and the shrimp etouffee of N’awlins. The music and culture of Miami’s Latino population infuse me with vitality and I’m equally moved by the traditions and food of the Chinese people of San Francisco. There’s nothing better than waking up on a brisk Chicago spring morning and going running by the lake. I love the Midwestern fields flowing with amber waves of grain and the purple mountains with their majestic views of my homeland, I love the Redwoods, the Grand Canyon, and the flowing Mississippi River. I hate the fact that the indigenous people of this land have been marginalized and disenfranchised with the acts of genocide that have been ignored and erased from the history books. I love Florence, South Carolina where I would go in the summer and spend time with my cousins and get bitten by mosquitoes the size of quarters and eat the best food I’ve ever tasted at The Thunderbird Inn. I hate the projects of the inner cities where people are piled on top of each other like rats with no plan to provide them with affordable, decent housing, as if they deserve to live like that simply because they are poor. I hate the segregation of the south where Blacks are kept in their place with imaginary boundaries and intentional mis-education. I hate that the soil of the south is stained with the blood of my ancestors who hung from the trees like strange fruit for the entertainment of others. I love my country because it is my home. To be born in this time, in this place is to be considered fortunate. Simply because I am a United States inhabitant, I know that my voice has a greater opportunity to be heard and, moreover, respected around the globe. Listening to the American art forms of jazz, the blues, and Negro spirituals soothes my soul. If only they weren’t born of the horrendous history of chattel slavery that has been sanitized to appear little more than a mistake and not one of the most egregious acts of terror against humanity that it really was. Our founding fathers saw fit to ensure that each and every person born in this nation had the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The irony that plagues me is that during that very time individuals with beautiful black skin were considered 3/5ths of a human being, little more than animals, who labored to make this country the wealthiest in the world. I want desperately to love my country because it is the bastion of principles that it proclaims. Oh were it truly the land of the free and the home of the brave with liberty and justice for all. Sadly, they are empty clichés. Injustice reigns freely from sea to shining sea based on race, gender, income level, physical ability, age, and sexual orientation. I can’t, in good consciousness, give my unconditional love to a nation that perpetuates wars on concepts where innocent people are victims of capitalist agendas but I can love the potential for my United States of America, a beautiful jewel with flawed facets, to live out its mission so that all its children might be one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Scottie Lowe Scottie Lowe is an author, activist, and she is also the creator of www.AfroerotiK.com.

Why are you 2 having such a hard time processing the idea that "Precious" showed black women in a bad light?? It did! People who complain about this are not concerned with the acting skills of the cast or the production expertise of the crew. They are dismayed by the image that the characters projected and the plot that reinforced them. Why? Because any average white people who watch this movie will either feel pity for those po ol niggas, or will feel comfortable in harboring their secret prejudices. One of these reactions is a form of condescension, and the other a symptom of white entitlement. Why is it so difficult to understand that this frustrates Blacks who want respect???? Those who bitch about the negative impact of "Precious" and about Hollywood following a patronizing pattern of rewarding movies that expose the worst case scenario of black life, are not off base. If others want to wear blinders when it comes to the subtleness of benign racism and commercial explotation, then they shouldn't be surprised if the contempt they put out there comes back to them.

black theatergoers have not avoided the movie like the plague. More importantly, those that ran from the plague, "Either they have, or they haven't. They have, haven't they?" Now, for all of those individual that you said avoided the movie, the begging question is WHY? "Maybe because they, like most movie goers (most are youngsters and especially young males between 13-24) go to movies for escape. Maybe because they like to imagine they are the character in the movie and don't want to imagine themselves as a fat stupid black girl with AIDS. Maybe because they know plenty of fat stupid black girls with AIDS unlike lots of folks who are championing this movie, and they don't want to wallow in it. A few weeks ago I sat in a room full of black folks, men and women with AIDS who are getting ready to get the money they get for medicine (they can't hold regular jobs, imagaine that)wondering whether they were going to live or die because the doctors told them that if they stop taking the medicine they would die. Naw, I don't want to see Precious after that and don't think anybody is brave or black because they can go in a goddam metroplex and eat popcorn and jujubes and think they are handling the AIDS problem. People like you give me a pain. You cry and scream over a movie full of people who are PRETENDING they have AIDS and stare with blank stupidity at somebody really dying of it in the street. Jeezus. I don't know where you stay but WHITE FOLKS own all the theaters around here and they are getting all the money, not those coons out front. So what else be new?"

Troy, it appears that you and I have totally different views about this name issue. I must admit that I am somewhat taken back by the fact you cannot see the silliness of these childish inane names and the self stigmatizing ghettoization of a generation of blacks post 1970. It’s so sad. I find it very difficult and perplexing to seriously debate this type of coonery. Sorry, but I can’t be nice about it or say it any other way. I guess you and I can be civil and agree to disagree and move on. And although we stand on different sides of the street on this issue, I still respect your opinions….. Wow! This is ridiculous. You seem to be seriously be missing something here Troy. Just because a black person does not subscribe or takes issues with monolithic group-think -does not mean they hate themselves. I have no idea how you came to such convoluted logical deduction. It makes no sense. Just because a person does not belong to the Black Borg, does not mean they do not want to be black or have issues with being black. It reminds me of what George Schuyler described as “Negro hokum”.You would be hard pressed to prove such an outrageous accusation. There is no way you could know something like that unless you possessed an individual's medical records, documenting their attempted suicides, history of self mutilation or an ongoing history asserting that they hated themselves. I think you are confusing political dissention and independence from black groupthink. Every race and ethnicity has diverse and opposing views and politics. Are blacks not allowed the same freedom? Just because a black person disagrees with so-called nationalistic Afro-ology or rebukes the cancerous Negro dogma of victimization and entitlement, once again -does not they hate themselves. Why you believe a black person who disagrees with Al Sharpton, Louis Farrakhan, does not approve of these tragic but trendy doofus names or openly criticizes the Neo-Negro coon culture, some how -must hate themselves? Makes no sense whatsoever. I believe reality would be best served if you would state your specific disagreement points with the individuals politics and leave the improvable cheap stolid “self-hate” accusations to those who are intellectually incapable of formulating a meaningful or salient argument.

""Let's not be naive. This was not FUBU. They wanted the whole world to see the movie--and would have to know that the black theatergoers would avoid it like the plague, which they have" Chris, although you may have been being facetious, black theatergoers have not avoided the movie like the plague. More importantly, those that ran from the plague, knew of it's death and destruction. For the most part, their fear was based on the consequences of the disease. Moreso, "They" WERE NOT concerned with the mental state of others, it was about protecting THEMSELVES. Now, for all of those individual that you said avoided the movie, the begging question is WHY? Really, what was the basis of their disapproval? Did they think they'd catch a disease or be convinced to commit a crime? I question the depths of their thinking pattern. I don't watch horror movies, like SAWII and Friday the 13th, and I could tell you why. But what I 've been hearing from the "Precious" hating crowd, reeks of stupidity. Much of it is based on faulty logic. First, I hear the cry of "how it make "US" look. Now, if that ain't some dumb shit. Plus, many of those naysayers are making remarks about the movie, that shows the sign of a fool. I mean, if you listen, it's obvious they are just mimmicking words of others, because their comments have nothing to do with the movie. At least, not the one I saw. How can a person assess a movie values, messages and rewards (good & bad), without viewing it? Granted, a person can make the decision not to view a movie, based on subject matter. However, to imply it's a tool of "the white man", is simply negro baffoonery.

"Yeah", is my response to the question "are we really smart enough to govern ourselves". It's like when there's a power failure and the traffic lights go out. Drivers quickly figure out that they have to go into a 4-way stop mode, taking turns, those going in one direction alternating with those going in the other direction, and things move right along. When it comes to a power shortage in America, my scenario would not immediately become a doomsday one. If the Administration in Washington were to come to a stand still, and this wasn't made public, nobody would notice the difference. Our Government is an anarchy masquerading as a democracy, - a bureaucratic entity composed of self-serving politicians, and the people rarely benefit. The nation actually runs on its own momentum and each one of us is our own little country. We survive or fail depending on how well we have figured out how to ride the coattails of a government propelled by its own weight. Eventually, however, things would skid to a halt, and then it will become a "dog-eat-dog" situation, a method of survival Americans are quite capable of participating in. We'd then degenerate into a populace of predators, at which time, the year 2012 would be looming on the horizon, and a second big bang would soon occur, blowing us back to square one, where we will then be ready to start over and get it right this time. Have a good day. .

Kitty, I hear you on the "piss or get off the pot". But in my own defence, you've been doing this a long time. So I can assume you asked many questions before you made your move. Heck, you're an Ivy league graduate and an instructor. So I am still drinking coffee and still pissing. You're in the upper room. All goodbyes ain't gone. Hello Marissawilson, Thanks! Post your book and/or tell us how it's doing.

GHETTOHEAT® HOTNESS: HICKSON REMEMBER WHEN? REMEMBER WHEN…it was all-good in the hood up in Harlem? You were too young to realize you were poor wit’ problems: “I WANNA GO BACK…WAY BACK…BACK INTO TIME….” Mock-neck pullovers - plaid polyesters from AJ Lester’s Florsheim’s suede British Walkers—leather Playboys Rocked them wit’ ya corduroy suit Guns we toted were water toys Wasn’t concerned wit’ gettin’ loot! Just havin’ fun in the sun…. “LAST NIGHT CHANGED IT A-L-L! I REALLY HAD A BALL!” …Wasn’t drinkin’ Cristal “HOT PEAS-N-BUTTER, COME-AND-GET-YA-SUPPER!” Outside playin’: “Run, catch and kiss” Ev’rybody was mad cool - didn’t have time to dis “Eric B. Is President”—and you don’t s-t-o-p! Doin’ “the wop” on ya skates at The Rooftop Brucie B. chopped it up on the one-and-two’s - scratchin’ hip-hop It was all-good: “Um Tang! Um Tang!”—DJ Hollywood 145th and Eighth Ave. A “Willie Burger” - a ghetto-sweet “half-n-half” We bugged, snapped and laughed! The after-hour spot: The S & S Car rims: “B.B.S.” Yes! Doug E. Fresh did the human-beat box to “The Show” “A-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-E, YO! AIIIGHT!” Livin’ large at The Uptown Garage Honeys wore “Bubble Gum Jeans” extra tight High-top kicks wit’ slouchy socks So blessed—yes! “W…B…L…S!”: Chief Rocker Frankie Crocker Before 8 o’clock played “In The Mood” before endin’ show: “THERE-I-GO! THERE-I-GO! T-H-E-R-E I GO…” Life in the 70s: nice and slow…. Gurrls wore “mushrooms” before “doobies” Bushy Afro puffs - trainin’ bras they stuffed Colored jellies wit’ belly shirts and patchwork skirts Playin’ in the park - didn’t mind the dirt WHAT A DAY! Mr. Chick and La Roque Bay African dance troupe jumped and swayed: “FUNGA ALAFIA, AH-SHAY AH-SHAY!” Yeah, that was tight - hung out ‘til streetlights came on at night It was the joint! Outta sight! “DYN-O-M-I-T-E!” “GOOD TIMES. …THESE…ARE…THE…GOOD…TIMES!” Wasn’t hatin’ or droppin’ dime Lemon-lime snow cones on Lenox Atari - Channel 11’s: “PIX-PIX-PIX-PIX-PIX!” “I WANNA GO BACK”: Bring back a few things My four-finger gold nugget ring Before the ice: bling-bling! Life was smooth - life was great Doin’ “The Snake” goin’ to Steak-n-Take McDonald’s banana milk shakes Roast beef at Mammy-Jammy’s! “Easy like Sunday morning” without the whammys Damn…I was young gettin’ hassled by bouncers at The Castle: “IT’S THE K-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-D CAPRI!” Doin’ his thing! Wrecks-n-Effects and The New Jack Swing “The Fila” dance at Latin Quarters Snatched ya Lee patch off ya high-water jeans “P. S. K: WHAT DOES IT MEAN?” “40-below” Timbs - army jacket—olive-green “WAY BACK!”: Friday nights watchin’ “Hot Tracks” Le Chic did “The Freak” and we were gettin’ down! Two-piece short set from Appletown Ev’rythin’ was c-o-o-l Butter Crunch cookies for lunch at school Wasn’t walkin’ like gangsters or bangers lookin’ mean Just doin’ “The Robot” right on the scene The Jackson Five: “Dancing Machine” Doin’ “The Bump” - goin’ in the closet to dry-hump Lumps in my throat when it’s time to go home The funky-funky-funky-fresh block party DJ Luv-Bug Starski scratchin’ at The Dome Playin’ all day in the GHETTOHEAT®! Slingin’ skully tops in the gritty street Diddy-boppin’ to the sure-shot beat! Easter Sunday: “Time to get f-l-y!” No crack or ecstasy—wasn’t gettin’ high Hop the train—Forty deuce: “Yo, home slice, Times Square!” Black Power Afro pick in ya nappy-ass hair! Flick-it-up - grab some lunch: Nathan’s franks wit’ fries and fruit punch Just mad fun—yo, a bunch! Saturday mornin’ karate movies eatin’ Cap’n Crunch Fred Flintstone wit’ his pal, Gazoo Pac Man - Asteroids - Donkey Kong, too Nehi soda—favorite flavor: “Sky Blue” I-thought-I-was-the-kid-wearin’-Underoos! “BACK IN TIME”: O-o-o-o-o-o-h… Two-dollar movies at The Roosevelt Next door to Blimpie: “A number ‘three’ wit’ cheese, please!” Felt like life couldn’t get any better Rockin’ ya gauchos and ya cowl-neck sweater …I wanna re-live those days over and over again YO, MY CURFEW WAS AT TEN! What were you doin’ back then? REMEMBER WHEN? HICKSON is CEO of GHETTOHEAT®. Born in Harlem, New York, he remains a true Harlemite. Graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 1998, receiving a Bachelors of Science degree in Advertising and Marketing Communications, HICKSON attended college full-time and freelanced as a fashion stylist—also becoming a backstage wardrobe coordinator for supermodel, Naomi Campbell. For five years, HICKSON was in charge of coordinating her fast, intricate outfit changes at major fashion shows, until becoming fully involved in the creative process of runway shows, later freelancing as a production coordinator for a leading special events/fashion show production company; producing avant-garde shows worldwide. His grandfather’s death and 9/11 quickly changed HICKSON’s life, soon writing GHETTOHEAT® while dealing with struggles. Poverty, pressure and passion drove him into becoming a self-made “Hip-Hopreneur”—HICKSON creating his multimedia company, GHETTOHEAT® on June 4th, 2003, focusing on self-publishing, marketing, distributing and selling his works. Determination also forced HICKSON to publish other creative artists, where he’s always seeking new talent. HICKSON’s vision is to continue producing great quality works, his favorite subjects being his people, the inner-city voices of Ghetto-America. HICKSON’s next release is SKATE ON!—his first novel. Contact HICKSON at HICKSON@GHETTOHEAT.COM

Now see, I just got back from a party full of naysayers, and I find myself on the same block. But I must admit, Troy, I did read Kam's picks ( a week ago) and he was on the mark. But, I couldn't find his name attached to the review. I guess I should assume that all the review posted @ AALBC are his unless it says otherwise? But Troy, why is it that people want to attach Mo'nique character to her. I mean, why does she have to have a large resume in order for us to appreciate her brilliant acting? And, why didn't you say this when Thump and I was kickin' it about her and Jamie Fox? Again, you must be on the inside track to Mo'nique's personal life because what specific parts of her performance tells you that see wasn't reaching down to emote feelings or actions that she had never experienced. But you at least compared her to Murphy's Ray, which I think is one of the greastest performances of all time (by a black man). So, although it's my opinion that you are hating on Mo'nique with faulty logic, you at least played it safe. But then again, you're a Star Trek man. Yikes! Troy, you didn't say, but are you in the crowd of those that say Precious shines a bad light on blacks and therefore is a tool for those that want to only show us in a negative way? If so, I bet you don't like horror movies or war flicks. But let me take that back, you probably only like those in which the black person doesn't get killed in the first scene. Oh, I also read Kam's review of Top Cop(?), with Tracy Morgan. I see he didn't like it. I'm going to check it out. After reading his review of Soul Men, I felt he wasn't crazy about it either, but that movie had rollin'

Yeah I liked Hurt Locker much more than I did Avatar. It seemed to be a pretty weak year for movies... My favorite movie last year was Star Trek, but unless you have a relationship with the franchise the movie probably would not mean very much to you. So I could understand why it would not be considered for any major awards. Say what you will about Kam's Oscar picks but he usually nails them! This year he did, to quote him, "horribly" (Kam's Oscar Picks). Despite all of the controversy surrounding Precious By the time I finally saw it a couple of weeks ago I was surprised by how relatively innocuous a film it was. Hardly worth all the gnashing of teeth and hand wringing. The money was OK I like Hurt Locker much more. Monique was good and played her role. To compare comedians I would not put it on the level of Jamie Fox's performance in Ray. It is really difficult to judge how good an actress Monique is without seeing her in a range of roles. her character in Precious is not really much of a stretch from her Skinny Bitches are evil persona. I liked Anthony Mackie's performance in Hurt Locker. I would been happy to see him win best supporting actor. While he was not in a competing category with Monique his performance was superior.

Well gruel world, CareyCarey's palms are sweating and his knees are getting weak, the marriage is but a week away. That's right, the fire is stoked and the pot is boiling, now it's time to put a top on it. Till death do us part But wait, vanquish any thoughts from your mind that I'm getting married. Nope, been there, done that, and it was a great time, and I am on the auction block, but today I am talking about a marriage of a different sort. Well, not really, but let me explain. The state of Iowa is one of a few states that has legalized gay marriages. Now, since I live in Iowa, I have a vested interest in these ongoings. I could sit back and let the world turn, or get my feet wet. Well, before I could make my move to soon, or to late, the flood moved to my doorsteps. Don't get me wrong, I am not gay, and as I said, I am not getting married but my woman's daughter is gay and she is getting married... This Week! I've talked about this in another post... 2 months ago: "A women that I see on a regular basis, has a daughter that's a lesbian. Upon first hearing about her daughter, she was hurt. She didn't know anything about lesbians. She only knew what others said about them. Of course, much of what she heard was rooted in ignorance. She thought she had done something wrong while raising her daughter. Through a little pain, knowledge and a lot of prayer, she's now very comfortable with her daughter's lifestyle. In fact, her daughter, that once was married to a man, is soon to be married to a woman. And check this, they got my dumb ass up in the wedding. Yep, not only am I in the wedding, I'm the MC at the reception. It's a family affair" Well, here I am 2 months later, wondering what it's all about. I mean, how am I going to handle this, and what am I going to say? Look, we've all heard a white person say "some of my best friends are black". Okay, I don't have to break that down, but we know how that affects us. Yep, those things are easy to say when Big Willie and Leon do not live in your neighborhood. When the pigeons come home to roost, it's a whole new ballgame. But make no mistake about it, I am cool with the whole gay thang. I have no problem with who tickles who's love bone. Nope, to each his own. But see, since I have a propensity to run my mouth and love telling jokes, I have a bit of a problem. In my role as MC, I am going to play it very loose. Hey, I gotta be me. But loose lips sinks ships. Listen, I like to think of myself as a speaker and a gum shoe wordsmith, but I don't know what's politically correct in the gay world. I don't know if I should use words like Dude-ettes or Bride-gal & Guy-gal, etc. Really, I'm in quite a quandary. For instance, I am thinking about telling a joke that involves cookies and hot dogs. I am going to say... "There are a lot of beautiful women in here tonight and I am single. But I have to be careful, because when I reach for my cookie (girlfriend's name is Cookie) I don't don't want to pull out a long hot dog. Come on yawl, you know looks can be deceiving. I mean, I like hot dogs, but I like mine with mustard and ketchup and a little onion. Wait, I might be in the wrong place to be talking about the freaky deaky hotdog? I am simply saying I don't like surprises. When I reach for my Cookie, I don't want her to start growing... in all the wrong places" That's one of my softer jokes. And, I don't know if you've been to a gay "bash" but the red carpet was made for them. Quit it, they dress to impress. But see, I don't have any shame in my game, but I am worried about getting shot. Are you kidding me, just because someone is gay does not mean they don't carry pistols. In fact, I know the bridegroom has a long 38. Really, just the other day, she shot a raccoon that's been jackin' with her trash. He will not raid anymore trash cans. This coon ain't trying to be the next victim. So please, if you are gay or have gay family members or friends, holla at a brother. I need a little help. Tell me what to do. Come on now, I know everyone that's reading this post has a gay person in their family. Heck, I can count 3 or 4 in my family, and I ain't mad at them. Why should I be? The day is coming and the microphone will soon be in my hand. Tell me, tell me, tell me true, what should this fool really do? And, you might not like the whole gay marriage thing. You can tell me about that too.

Oh Lawd, why am I not surprised that you, Cynique, have graced this post. But since you are here, I think you hit on something very important... "Traditional" First, there's nothing traditional about a gay wedding. There is no tradition! Now, you would also have to know the people involved. Let me add a few comments from other people and my replies. Maybe there are some soft comments you can make about the facts of their situation You don't have to worry about your spouse leaving the toilet seat up. You can borrow each others clothes. When someone asks to speak to the man of the house you can look to your spouse and say, "Your turn"! Ok seriously. This may be the new normal for some people. Just make it so they don't have to edit you out of the video. Keep the jokes to a minimum to not take away from their special day. Since they asked you, they know you at least a little bit, so they shouldn't be toooooo surprised. Good luck. March 7, 2010 5:52 PM jjbrock said... Carey I've been reading your blog for a while now...So I feel comfortable saying this...Stay away from the jokes please. @SCL, I like! "You don't have to worry about your spouse leaving the toilet seat up." You can borrow each others clothes." When someone asks to speak to the man of the house you can look to your spouse and say, "Your turn"!"March 7, 2010 9:12 PM CareyCarey said... I don't believe this. Two of my longest readers have drop by. I was actually thinking about you 2 when I wrote this post. Most of the opponents to gay marriages come from the religious front. I was actually going to call you 2 to the front of the stage but it worked itself out. Ms, Ann, since you and SLC have been reading my blog, you know I have a hard time with a "blog"/"artistic" voice and the voice I would use in public. So you both are probably right. I have to move away from entertaining the crowd with a "blog" voice. Plus, there will be children there and I know the children of the "groom". So even though (SLC) your jokes were pretty smooth, I now wonder how the children will feel about them. But here's a liitle secret about some gay couples. There's usually one that plays a dominant role. In this case (this couple) I know who cuts the grass and takes out the trash. Thanks for the feedback! I'm still looking for proper names. Like bride and groom or what? P***** said... *Love* the jokes SLC suggested! Also love the idea about sticking to relationship humor. Also, if you know any funny stories about your friend's daughter from when she was younger. You might be OK working some of these jokes in by telling a story about the process you went to in order to arrive at an appropriate humor topic--kind of put the focus on yourself and your own lack of precedence. Just remember that this is their special day: More special because they have family and friends who are risking, perhaps, their own not-so-comfortable feelings to be there to share it with them. One more idea: Why don't you just ask the couple what they are comfortable with? Maybe they were looking for Kat Williams and pimp jokes and would be disappointed if you played it safe. LOL! March 8, 2010 6:20 AM March 8, 2010 6:58 AM CareyCarey said... P*****, I think you are on the mark. "Just remember that this is their special day: More special because they have family and friends who are risking, perhaps, their own not-so-comfortable feelings to be there to share it with them" Yes, this whole thing has kind of split her family. Some are very uncomfortable about even coming to this affair, but they are coming. And therefore, there is a need to lighten the moment. The other woman's mother didn't even know of the marriage, or her daughters sexual preference until 1 month ago. The daughter was very hesitant to tell her mother. In fact, the mother was told by someone else. There was tears but everyone is cool now. Well, as much as they can be. You might have something, ******. "telling a story about the process you went to in order to arrive at an appropriate humor topic--kind of put the focus on yourself and your own lack of precedence" Now, I don't know about Kat Williams type pimp stories :-), but I will ask the couple a few questions before I make a fool of myself and embarrass everyone. Stop it with the Kat Williams, LMBAO. SLC is right, they do know me and they did ask me to run with this. But I don't think they really knew what they were asking for. Well, they've seen me on a different stage, so I'd better keep fielding questions & answers. March 8, 2010 8:04 AM Post a Comment Links to this post The Old Black Church!: Are The Owners Of Christian Bookstores ... March 8, 2010 6:58 AM CareyCarey said... ******, I think you are on the mark. "Just remember that this is their special day: More special because they have family and friends who are risking, perhaps, their own not-so-comfortable feelings to be there to share it with them. March 8, 2010 8:04 AM Yes Cynique, my approach may be tacky, or was going to be tacky, but I am trying to work things out. There's going to be a lot of tension in that room and the bride and groom are not scheduled to arrive at the reception hall until 1 hour after the wedding. My thang starts before the bride and groom arrive, And then yes, when the introductions (and toasts) start jumping off, it will be business as un-usual. But even that will be "different". The "daddy" of one, does not want to say a thang. The mother of the other is still in shock, and therefore will not say a thang. The "court" will all make a grand entrance(the grooms court, will all be wearing tuxedos (although women) and doing their best pimp-stride). There's nothing traditional about these individuals. In fact, that is one reason why I was chosen to do the thang. It's gonna require a bit of adlibing. But wait, did I spell that right? *chuckle*

"Why you keep doubting me is the question?" Well man, I am trying to keep you from being a poor hustler. I mean, your head is big enough and with all that new gray hair, it could be an ugly sight. But then again, I've been reading your book reviews (on AALBC's home page) and those of Kam's (movies)and I might be getting them confused. I mean, ol'boy could use your help. In particular, those interviews of celebrities. That stuff is dry. I could feel the uncomfortable feelings of him and the guests. Also, his movie picks are... well, he could use your help... imo. But Thump, if I didn't keep you in check, who would? I mean, you might start believeing your own hype. I know it's a po' frog that doesn't brag on it's own lilly pad, but I'm just saying...

Definitely a Cyniquian style review. I like it! And will share it on my social networks. I also really like Dan Brown's novel Davinci Code. The movies sucked and honestly I straying from Brown's next novels prejudging them on the weakness of the movies. My bad, I'll down load Brown's latest based upon your 4 start recommendations. Cynique, did you really sit under a pyramid? Dan Brown's The lost Symbol

So LiLi, is that what it is? I mean, I don't know how to do what? Use Twiiter? Come on Scare Crow... I mean LiLi, admit it, you’re just lost in a Poppy Field. I mean, you're doing what? Following? What's with "follow me on Twitter"??!! That sounds like something Dorothy would say to the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion... "follow me down the Twitter (yellow brick) road". See, I've been called a dog but I am not Toe-Dough or Toto. I mean, follow you where? Listen, Twitter ain’t nothing but a Drive-by shooting. They should call it Jitter because any ol'crackhead could say "Hi, whatcha doing, catch ya later". I mean, WTH is going on? Really, isn't that system like a drive-by shooting.... BANG BANG, you're dead -see you later. If a clown calls me on the phone and says, "Whats up man, am going to the movies tonight"... and then hangs up, I am done with his ass. I mean, really, they could have missed me with that one. Who wants to read twitter, I mean, a "drive-bye" (140 characters) shout out? Don't get me wrong, I love the give and take of a good conversation (even Cynique’s) but Damn, isn't Twitter akin to somebody knocking on your door, and then punching you in the face. Then,they're off to punch another idiot. I mean, who drops by your house and says 10 words and then leaves? What's that mess about? Don't get me wrong, on some occasions a short reply is just what the doctor ordered, but am just saying... For real, is there a rewards program for short bursts of "hello, am gone"? Really, I need to know because I can use a plastic key chain. Maybe it's just this new generation of X-boxers and BET-ers? Maybe I should blame it on Rap music - that's it...... "BOOM BOOM BOOM.... grab my nuts... am gone" WTH? To tell the truth, I am really pissed off because I should have invented that mess. I mean, the advertising slogan wouldn't be that complicated... "TWITTER! Come on by. You don't have to say a goddam thang and you can't stay long - just drive-by" Twitter is like pissing in the river. A whole lot of swinging pricks could release their streams down the bank of the river, and the tide wouldn't rise, Cuz, that steam is going to stop in about 20 seconds. I mean, come on, WTH is Twitter? Jitter Bug - Twitter Bug - Tweety Bird - LiLi Bird. What kind of bird don't fly? What kind of people tweet? Granted, Twitter seems to be a way to catch groupies, but I am talking about them pimp or die tweet-sweets. Now I ain't talking about nobody, but is strictly tweet for dead heads? Maybe it's for people that watch porn flicks by themselves? I don't know, am just asking. I mean, who watches porn flicks for the sound?? I mean, ain't that just like Twitterettes, they ain't sayin a goddam thang? I know...... I know, “Carey, STFU!” but at least I’m saying it long & loud... like I’m fat and proud. You show me a trench coat wearing flasher and I'll show you a Tweet Sweet. Of course I am kidding about them being sweet, but I bet most of them can be found trolling on the Internet and Twitterland, for underage girls... "hello, my name is Johnny, how old are you - tweeeeeet?" If you ever see me tweeting, call the loony wagon because I 've lost my F**kin' mind. Nawl Miss LiLi, you got me all messed up. Ain’t no shame in my thang. I just ain’t prone to follow (or sniff) some negroes behind.

Xeon, if we were standing next to each other, I would first ask you, why did you ask the question? Well, because, I think it would have saved a lot of my following reply. You are a good writer. I mean, your posts are well written. Therefore, that tells me something about the person. Consequently, I will assume you asked the question with good intentions. Having said that, my reply is long. So please bare with me. First, I think it’s important for would-be writers to have a defined purpose. I mean, many are in it for the money and yet others do it for a myriad of reasons. To each his own. Well, the following is what I am presently doing (as far as writing goes). Well, let me back up. I originally started writing in my journal as a way to ease my pain. Through that experience (and after) I found a love of expressing myself on paper. I am a “talker” by trade (part-time). Writing is somewhat of an extension of that. So, I dabble, which takes me here.... A call out, some time ago: [newspaper]We asked readers with something to say to make a bid to be one of our regular columnist. Boy, did you. Thanks. We're pleased to say that once again judging the competition was stiff for publisher Kenneth Taylor, managing editor Roger Ruppert and editorial page editor Ken Rows. While many of those who entered would have been excellent additions to our pages, we're pleased with the collection of writers whose work ....< > They are: u Peter Hotle, 27, was born and raised in Rockford and still lives there. He's the middle of five children and his parents still live in the house in which he grew up. A graduate of Rockford High School, he attended *****College and graduated from ***** College with a degree in history. He is pursuing a master's in business administration at St. Cloud University and works at *****research. His interests: Young professionals who are committed to staying here and being leaders in our community. This Wednesday’’s offering, a call to action to help keep young people in our community. u Susan is an author, historian and quilting aficionado. Her research, writings and photographs about the history of quilts and textiles have been widely published. One of the founders of the Illinois Quilt Study Group in lona, Iowa, you can find her Web site, Quilt History: Quilt from the Midwest, at She also writes a blog called the Needle: History Conversation from the Midwest and another about movies and literature. She lives on a grain farm in Atkin with her husband and a rescued red beagle-mix. She writes, "I could be your grandmother, your mother, your sister, your Auntie, your friend, or your next door neighbor." u Carey < > u Steve **** is a name with which most of our readers are no doubt familiar, and not just because a new park rising on the city's North Shore bears his name. Besides practicing law in the area for the past 34 years, he was the mayor of Iowa ****. He cut his teeth on politics, first as alderman from 1981-1989 before taking the mayor's seat, from which he retired last year. He knows the area and he's also intimately familiar with the assets and challenges of all the region. He's served and/or chaired the Bi-State Regional Commission, ******** Task Force, and the ***** City Development Group. His leadership on the ***** panel has earned him particularly high marks. Politics, however, is just one of side of his character. He is a talented painter and an avid student of history who will bring a unique perspective to our pages. u Terry **** of Champaign has lived in the area since 1975. The graduate of the University of Illinois has been a committee chair for the *****Classic (and its other incarnations) for two decades. He's a two-time Senior Olympics gold medalists in the trivia competition and has run the Mile High for the past 28 years. He has 30 years in human resources, most recently at the Metropolitan Medical Laboratory who, for a brief time 30 years ago, worked as a stringer for The Daily Monitor. He is married to a nurse, and adds, "I enjoy movies and reading and I love dogs." That's evident in his offering, a salute to the family's Maltese, Daisy. Thanks to all who took the considerable time we know it takes to enter... < >. Once again, the quality and quantity of entries surprised us and narrowing the field to just five was a challenge. So, if you weren't picked, please, don't be discouraged. We'll do this again. In the meantime, please enjoy offerings of this round's winners in Viewpoints. Xeon, the above muckety mucks that I am included with, write sh*t that I don’t even read. And apparently, my view is shared by many others. Well, the “hits” and “comments” tell the story. My foolishness/column swamps theirs. So, with that encouragement, I continue to write. But see, I am not a writer but I like telling stories. So here we are. I asked for help in writing a memior/book, because even though some people like reading my material, and my “voice” is okay, my structure sucks. Take for instance the following piece. I have a friend that has her masters in English. She shifts and shapes my pieces before I send them to the publisher. The voice is mine, and so are most of the words, but I am going to show you the finished product and then the mess as it was originally written by me. In my column, I try to stay with a personal theme. Oh, I am suppose to stay under 800 words, which is very hard to do (for me). So sometimes I have to do a 2-3 part series. Part I Is Twitter A “Drive-By, Say Hi”? My mother never learned how to drive! I have so much to say in so little time. However, if I can borrow a tag line from an old cigarette commercial...“I’d rather fight than switch”. Well, if I were Twittering or texting, I’d be limited to 140 characters, or less. But, those limitations are not the sole reasons behind my discontent. I’ve often wondered if the world is nurturing a generation of “Drive-By, Say Hi” robots? Could we be ushering a generation of individuals that lack the interaction skills that are necessary to build great character? Since I do not know the evil that lurks in the hearts of all men, I have to bring this story to my doorstep. My mother is 85 years old and she has never driven a car. If that’s not something that rings your bell, how would you feel if your family did not have a car or a telephone! Well, for many years, our family had neither. Needless to say, Twitter, Text Message, Face Book, or any hook, did not grace our palms. But look, do not feel sorry for us, because as the sayings go “one man’s garbage is another man’s treasure” and “everything that glitters is not gold” My mother was a stay at home mom. When my father went to work, she prepared his lunch at home. He worked at American Container Corporation. As soon as the fresh and delicious morsels came out of the pot, skillet or oven, mom put them in a paper bag, and I scurried down to my dad’s place of employment. Although it was a hit and miss occurrence, when dad received it, he appreciated everyone’s effort. I usually received a nickel or a dime, and a big smile. Plus, I had the great opportunity to sit with him and the rest of the men. It was one of my first glimpses at role models and how they, as men, interacted with each other. One of those men was the Quad Cities renowned fast-pitch softball instructor and coach, Dale Mattlick. Dale, who was also the pitcher for the company softball team, lived on the outer fringes of the Tri Cities as did many of the other players. Therefore, after the games, the team came to our home to have a few beers and talk about their victory or loss. My uncle Lavance and his family are Catholics. They were members of St Joseph, a small Catholic church in the West End of Blue Island. At that time, we were members of Second Baptist Church, and we walked there. As both families left their homes on Sunday morning, each passed by the Jewish Synagogue that was located on 9th street, between 5th and 6th avenue. Unlike some Baptist churches that can be heard from blocks away, the Jewish members were a quiet lot. However, when they were around, they always gave a tip of the hat or a respectful nod. When I look back on my life, I am reminded in so many ways, that I am a product of my environment. Sometimes I sit and wonder... Who would I be if the softball team didn’t come by our home? They came, and I was afforded the opportunity to see that people who lived in the outlying areas of the Quad Cities, like many of them, were no different than me. They may have come from a different culture, but they drank beer, talked about their wives, ate too much and passed gas, just as all men are prone to do. If we had a phone, we may have called our church to inform them that my father and I wouldn’t be coming to fulfill our roles as ushers, and thus, missed the fellowship that’s an integral part of the development of any man. And, if we had a car, it’s possible, we wouldn’t have stopped to talk to our neighbors, like the old Jewish gentlemen. Their religion, as my uncle’s religion, was different than ours, but they were just men, just like my father. If we had a car, would I have the memories of the pride on my father’s face and the smell of the fried lunchmeat sandwiches, meat loaf, fried chicken, or thinly sliced spam, that permeated from the bags that I protected as if they were gold? I’ve received many serendipitous rewards from a world without Twitter and the other social internet connections, but Oh boy, look at the time, I may have over-extended my stay . That’s why I do not Twitter, my friends! It’s hard to kiss and say goodbye. Real love is not a fleeting glance. To be cont.... ~Carey Xeon, this post is getting long. I will post the “before” or unedited copy of that whimsical piece (maybe), but if you answer my original question, I will continue to try to answer yours (if you still desire me to do so). I told you this post was long :-)

Finally a poem I get! homage to my hips by Lucille Clifton these hips are big hips they need space to move around in. they don't fit into little petty places. these hips are free hips. they don't like to be held back. these hips have never been enslaved, they go where they want to go they do what they want to do. these hips are mighty hips. these hips are magic hips. i have known them to put a spell on a man and spin him like a top!

( ALL go out and see my nephew!) http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/entertainment/movies/curtiss-cook-100224