Friday, September 30, 2011
Brooklyn man sentenced to 2 to 4 years for mowing down teens
A Brooklyn man was sentenced to prison today for mowing down a pair of teenage lovebirds while he was drunk.
Oliver Black, 55, ran into Brian Rosario and Elizabeth Lopez as they ran across Ocean Parkway against the light in December 2009.
Lopez suffered head injuries and Rosario’s leg was broken in the Coney Island crash.
Black, through his attorney Jay Schwitzman told Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Suzanne Mondo that he was sorry for the accident.
She sentenced him to two to four years in prison as part of a plea deal hammered out earlier this month.
“Clearly the kids ran into the six-lane parkway when the light was red against them,” Schwitzman told The Post. “He [Black] didn’t see them until they were right in front of his car.”
But, Schwitzman said, Black is “sorry for [hurting] the children. He has children of his own.”
Read more: Newyork Post
Oliver Black, 55, ran into Brian Rosario and Elizabeth Lopez as they ran across Ocean Parkway against the light in December 2009.
Lopez suffered head injuries and Rosario’s leg was broken in the Coney Island crash.
Black, through his attorney Jay Schwitzman told Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Suzanne Mondo that he was sorry for the accident.
She sentenced him to two to four years in prison as part of a plea deal hammered out earlier this month.
“Clearly the kids ran into the six-lane parkway when the light was red against them,” Schwitzman told The Post. “He [Black] didn’t see them until they were right in front of his car.”
But, Schwitzman said, Black is “sorry for [hurting] the children. He has children of his own.”
Read more: Newyork Post
Knight and Shining Amor
"Sometimes a girls 'knight in shining armor' is just a big jerk in tin foil" ~Author Tameka Newhouse
Book Review Coming Soon....
Book review for "I Rather Be Single" will be added on Monday. In the interim, check out the novel. It's the boooooooooomb! :-)
Purchase My E-Books On Lulu
Hey, folks! Are you looking for a good short read? Say no more! All four of my ebooks are on sale and they're available at your disposal. Thanks a bunch! :)
My Sherry Amor
Payback is an S.O.B
Lloyd Tube
Ebony the Beloved
My Sherry Amor
Payback is an S.O.B
Lloyd Tube
Ebony the Beloved
The Truth About Religion
"Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by rulers as useful" ~ Seneca the Younger
I'll be Attending Another Avon Event Tomorrow
Tomorrow I'll be attending another Avon event, which will be held at a different location. I look forward to selling more copies of my book this time and hopefully I'll make a connection. As some of you already know, I'm an Avon consultant. So, if you're looking to purchase something nice for yourself or someone you love, visit my store today. It's available 24/7 :)
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Living Single...
In a few years, I'll be 30 years old. And sometimes, I find myself wondering if I'll be in a committed relationship by then. I often contemplate about getting married and having children. But is it really apart of the creator's plans? I don't know what it really feels like to be a real relationship and I've never given myself the opportunity to explore that option. Although, I have one answer for that: I'm scared to death! I don't even know how or where to begin. But I do know how to be alone. lol. It's funny my mother told me that I can't be alone forever. But what if isn't meant to be? I don't mind being alone and there are so many things I'm trying to learn about myself. I haven't even secured my independence yet. There are so many questions that are hopping around in my head, that sometimes, I keep asking myself, what, where, when, and how? I'd love to have kids someday, but it can't be with just anyone. Before, I have kids with a low-life, I'd rather continue living single....
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
Wow: Ex-Porn Star Danielle Williams Book "From Porn to the Pulpit" Now Available
This is something I'll be adding to my wish list. It's available on Amazon.
Break News: My Internet Crush Is Married LOL
Ok, so.... I asked one of the guys who personally knows my crush and I was told that he's married. So much for that. LOL! Welp, it looks I'll be fantasizing about the R&B singer Lloyd longer than I planned. LOL! (Shrugs)
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
Interesting: Homosexuality and the Effeminization of Afrikan Males by Mwalimu K. Bomani Baruti
Here's the synopsis
Homosexuality and the Effeminization of Afrikan Males begins with an Afrikan Centered investigation into the origins and historical evolution of homosexuality. This elemental study expands into a detailed analysis of the most important part of this work, the growing gender confusion of Afrikans socialized into European culture and society. The historical relationship of white supremacy, based in the real and perceived threat of Afrikan males, to European global cultural imperialism/hegemony provides the foundation for these arguments. In plain terms, there is a direct relationship between the forced enslavement of Afrikan males into European society, the ongoing fear of Afrikan men by European men, the racist economic order that has gradually but systematically reduced its need for Afrikan labor since the official end of the Afrikan’s physical enslavement and the subsequent growing effeminization of a significant number of Afrikan males in this Western society. The process and desired result of this effeminization process is a significant part of the means by which European society seeks to reduce/eliminate the potential expression of a righteous rage by Afrikan men. This methodical demasculinization manifests itself in numerous ways and rationales, from within the prison system to higher education to single parenting to the labor market to the church to the media, all of which are thoroughly discussed in this book. At the base of this assault is the historical confusion and cultural alienation of Afrikans themselves. If people act toward any problem without historical awareness, for all problems are located in history, then in all probability they act wrongly or, as many prefer to say, they do no more than react. Therefore, many of us who are alarmed over this growing sexual confusion are mostly reacting to what is being done to our sons. And, because of this, we are unable to effectively arrest the European psychosexual assault on them. We do not see ourselves as powerful enough to stop others from turning our sons into their daughters. In the Western cultural context, men fear men, not women. And European men fear Afrikan men for many good reasons. They understand that the best way to significantly reduce this threat is to turn your enemy’s males into females so that they make themselves into non-threats. Blame for powerlessness in the face of assault falls on the victim. That undeniable truth is what this book attempts to explain in as great a detail as possible so that Afrikans can act on a deeply informed Afrikan interpretation, and not a European fiction, of Afrikan traditions.
Found here: Akoben House
Homosexuality and the Effeminization of Afrikan Males begins with an Afrikan Centered investigation into the origins and historical evolution of homosexuality. This elemental study expands into a detailed analysis of the most important part of this work, the growing gender confusion of Afrikans socialized into European culture and society. The historical relationship of white supremacy, based in the real and perceived threat of Afrikan males, to European global cultural imperialism/hegemony provides the foundation for these arguments. In plain terms, there is a direct relationship between the forced enslavement of Afrikan males into European society, the ongoing fear of Afrikan men by European men, the racist economic order that has gradually but systematically reduced its need for Afrikan labor since the official end of the Afrikan’s physical enslavement and the subsequent growing effeminization of a significant number of Afrikan males in this Western society. The process and desired result of this effeminization process is a significant part of the means by which European society seeks to reduce/eliminate the potential expression of a righteous rage by Afrikan men. This methodical demasculinization manifests itself in numerous ways and rationales, from within the prison system to higher education to single parenting to the labor market to the church to the media, all of which are thoroughly discussed in this book. At the base of this assault is the historical confusion and cultural alienation of Afrikans themselves. If people act toward any problem without historical awareness, for all problems are located in history, then in all probability they act wrongly or, as many prefer to say, they do no more than react. Therefore, many of us who are alarmed over this growing sexual confusion are mostly reacting to what is being done to our sons. And, because of this, we are unable to effectively arrest the European psychosexual assault on them. We do not see ourselves as powerful enough to stop others from turning our sons into their daughters. In the Western cultural context, men fear men, not women. And European men fear Afrikan men for many good reasons. They understand that the best way to significantly reduce this threat is to turn your enemy’s males into females so that they make themselves into non-threats. Blame for powerlessness in the face of assault falls on the victim. That undeniable truth is what this book attempts to explain in as great a detail as possible so that Afrikans can act on a deeply informed Afrikan interpretation, and not a European fiction, of Afrikan traditions.
Found here: Akoben House
BofA Finds New Way of Making Money: $5 Debit Card Charge
By Shira Ovide
Well, at least banks have found fresh ways of making money, since that whole mortgages and loans thing isn’t working out so well.
According to our Dow Jones Newswires colleague Andrew Johnson, BofA plans to charge customers a $5 monthly fee for making purchases with their debit cards.
Remember that BofA and other big banks are trying to offset expected lost revenue now that the Fed has capped the fees they can charge for each debit card purchase.
So that means banking customers can expect to be nickel-and-dimed, just like in the airline industry. Two bucks for peanuts, $5 for earphones, $1 for each trip to the bathroom (extra if you want toilet paper). Remember that J.P. Morgan’s Chase bank has been testing ATM fees of as much as $5 a pop for people who use a Chase ATM and aren’t a bank customer. “Free” checking accounts aren’t so free anymore, either.
You are now the piggy bank, dear bank customer.
S/N I'll be taking my money out of my bank account this week. Thanks in advance Bank of America.
Cited here: WSJ
Well, at least banks have found fresh ways of making money, since that whole mortgages and loans thing isn’t working out so well.
According to our Dow Jones Newswires colleague Andrew Johnson, BofA plans to charge customers a $5 monthly fee for making purchases with their debit cards.
Remember that BofA and other big banks are trying to offset expected lost revenue now that the Fed has capped the fees they can charge for each debit card purchase.
So that means banking customers can expect to be nickel-and-dimed, just like in the airline industry. Two bucks for peanuts, $5 for earphones, $1 for each trip to the bathroom (extra if you want toilet paper). Remember that J.P. Morgan’s Chase bank has been testing ATM fees of as much as $5 a pop for people who use a Chase ATM and aren’t a bank customer. “Free” checking accounts aren’t so free anymore, either.
You are now the piggy bank, dear bank customer.
S/N I'll be taking my money out of my bank account this week. Thanks in advance Bank of America.
Cited here: WSJ
“MOTHER OF HIP HOP” SYLVIA ROBINSON DEAD AT 75
(blackmediaSCOOP) Sylvia Robinson has passed away at the age of 75. Sylvia Vanterpool Robinson, known as the Mother of Hip-Hop, died earlier this morning from congestive heart failure.
Sylvia who was born on March 6, 1936 was a singer, musician, music producer, and record label executive, most notably known for her work as founder/CEO of the seminal hip hop label Sugar Hill Records.
Cited here: Black Media Scoop
Sylvia who was born on March 6, 1936 was a singer, musician, music producer, and record label executive, most notably known for her work as founder/CEO of the seminal hip hop label Sugar Hill Records.
Cited here: Black Media Scoop
TEACHER YANKS OUT KID’S HAIR & USES IT ON VOODOO DOLL
(blackmediaSCOOP) I don’t even know where to start with this mess! A teacher who told a special needs pupil she put a voodoo curse on him and that she could drown him has been banned from teaching for four years. ONLY 4 YEARS?!
49 year old Roslyn Holloway pulled out some of a child’s hair and wrapped it around a voodoo doll before telling her horrified students that if she dropped the doll in water the student would drown!
The teacher also yanked out clumps of a child’s hair when he wouldn’t stop talking and told another she would never kiss him because he was a ‘big hairy frog’ a General Teaching Council panel heard.
Just days after the voodoo incident, she threatened to pull out some of another student’s hair if he did not stop talking and followed through with the threat when he would not be quiet, before threatening to put a voodoo curse on him.
The teacher was formally charged for battery following the incidents but allegedly kept the charges a secret from her employers. Holloway has now moved from Shropshire to Yell, Shetland, after being dismissed from Lord Silkin Trust School.
Do you think 4 years probation is enough time?
Cited here: Black Media Scoop
49 year old Roslyn Holloway pulled out some of a child’s hair and wrapped it around a voodoo doll before telling her horrified students that if she dropped the doll in water the student would drown!
The teacher also yanked out clumps of a child’s hair when he wouldn’t stop talking and told another she would never kiss him because he was a ‘big hairy frog’ a General Teaching Council panel heard.
Just days after the voodoo incident, she threatened to pull out some of another student’s hair if he did not stop talking and followed through with the threat when he would not be quiet, before threatening to put a voodoo curse on him.
The teacher was formally charged for battery following the incidents but allegedly kept the charges a secret from her employers. Holloway has now moved from Shropshire to Yell, Shetland, after being dismissed from Lord Silkin Trust School.
Do you think 4 years probation is enough time?
Cited here: Black Media Scoop
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Tainted cantaloupes linked to 13 deaths, public health officials say
(CNN) -- Thirteen people have died from consuming bacteria-tainted cantaloupe in what has become the deadliest U.S. outbreak of a food-borne illness since 1998, according to records from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The outbreak -- blamed on the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes -- was first reported September 12, when the CDC said 15 people in four states had been infected. The illnesses were traced to consumption of Rocky Ford cantaloupes grown at Jensen Farms' fields in Granada, Colorado.
As of Monday morning, the latest statistics available, it had grown to 18 states, 72 illnesses and 13 deaths, according to the CDC.
In 1998, 21 people died from consuming tainted hot dogs, according to a CDC database.
In the current outbreak, four people who ate contaminated cantaloupes died in New Mexico, two each in Colorado and Texas, and one each in Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
Public health officials also have reported illnesses in California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
On September 14, Jensen Farms voluntarily recalled Rocky Ford whole cantaloupes shipped between July 29 and September 10. The cantaloupes were distributed in 17 states -- Illinois, Wyoming, Tennessee, Utah, Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
The cantaloupes bear a green-and-white sticker that reads: Product of USA-Frontera Produce-Colorado Fresh-Rocky Ford-Cantaloupe or a gray, yellow, and green sticker that says: Jensen Farms-Sweet Rocky Fords.
Unlabeled whole cantaloupe should be taken to the retailer for sourcing information, the Food and Drug Administration said.
"Jensen Farms continues to stay committed to the highest levels of food safety and maintains many third-party safety audits, as we have for many years," said Ryan Jensen, a partner at Jensen Farms. "We continually look for ways to enhance our protocol."
Frontera Produce, the supplier, issued a statement September 14 saying it was "working with FDA and state health officials to determine where along the supply chain the Listeria contamination may have occurred."
The 1998 tainted hotdog outbreak sickened 101 people and left 21 dead, according to the CDC's Foodborne Outbreak Online Database.
Listeriosis causes fever, muscle aches, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. It is rarely a serious concern for healthy children and adults, according to the CDC, but it is particularly dangerous for older adults, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women, in whom it can cause miscarriages, stillbirth and premature delivery, or bring on a life-threatening infection in a newborn.
About 1,600 people become seriously ill because of the bacteria each year, the CDC reports. About 260 die, according to the agency.
Four families affected by the outbreak have filed lawsuits, said attorney Bill Marler, who is representing them. The suits include two in Colorado, one in Texas and one in Oklahoma. A fifth will be filed this week in Maryland, Marler said.
The cases in Oklahoma and Maryland involve relatives of people who have died in the outbreak, Marler said. The other cases involve people who have been sickened.
At least 10 other people have retained Marler's firm, he said.
Jensen Farms and Frontera Produce are listed as the defendants. An attorney for Jensen Farms and an official with Fontera Produce did not immediately return calls from CNN for comment Wednesday.
Marler said the opportunity to "put people under oath and have subpoena power" allows information to come to light about how such an outbreak happens.
He said he expects a court in Colorado to issue an order within days allowing his legal team to go onto the farm and the processing facility.
"My obligation is to try to figure out a way to compensate people who have gone through what these people have gone through," he said.
Cited here: CNN
The outbreak -- blamed on the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes -- was first reported September 12, when the CDC said 15 people in four states had been infected. The illnesses were traced to consumption of Rocky Ford cantaloupes grown at Jensen Farms' fields in Granada, Colorado.
As of Monday morning, the latest statistics available, it had grown to 18 states, 72 illnesses and 13 deaths, according to the CDC.
In 1998, 21 people died from consuming tainted hot dogs, according to a CDC database.
In the current outbreak, four people who ate contaminated cantaloupes died in New Mexico, two each in Colorado and Texas, and one each in Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
Public health officials also have reported illnesses in California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
On September 14, Jensen Farms voluntarily recalled Rocky Ford whole cantaloupes shipped between July 29 and September 10. The cantaloupes were distributed in 17 states -- Illinois, Wyoming, Tennessee, Utah, Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
The cantaloupes bear a green-and-white sticker that reads: Product of USA-Frontera Produce-Colorado Fresh-Rocky Ford-Cantaloupe or a gray, yellow, and green sticker that says: Jensen Farms-Sweet Rocky Fords.
Unlabeled whole cantaloupe should be taken to the retailer for sourcing information, the Food and Drug Administration said.
"Jensen Farms continues to stay committed to the highest levels of food safety and maintains many third-party safety audits, as we have for many years," said Ryan Jensen, a partner at Jensen Farms. "We continually look for ways to enhance our protocol."
Frontera Produce, the supplier, issued a statement September 14 saying it was "working with FDA and state health officials to determine where along the supply chain the Listeria contamination may have occurred."
The 1998 tainted hotdog outbreak sickened 101 people and left 21 dead, according to the CDC's Foodborne Outbreak Online Database.
Listeriosis causes fever, muscle aches, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. It is rarely a serious concern for healthy children and adults, according to the CDC, but it is particularly dangerous for older adults, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women, in whom it can cause miscarriages, stillbirth and premature delivery, or bring on a life-threatening infection in a newborn.
About 1,600 people become seriously ill because of the bacteria each year, the CDC reports. About 260 die, according to the agency.
Four families affected by the outbreak have filed lawsuits, said attorney Bill Marler, who is representing them. The suits include two in Colorado, one in Texas and one in Oklahoma. A fifth will be filed this week in Maryland, Marler said.
The cases in Oklahoma and Maryland involve relatives of people who have died in the outbreak, Marler said. The other cases involve people who have been sickened.
At least 10 other people have retained Marler's firm, he said.
Jensen Farms and Frontera Produce are listed as the defendants. An attorney for Jensen Farms and an official with Fontera Produce did not immediately return calls from CNN for comment Wednesday.
Marler said the opportunity to "put people under oath and have subpoena power" allows information to come to light about how such an outbreak happens.
He said he expects a court in Colorado to issue an order within days allowing his legal team to go onto the farm and the processing facility.
"My obligation is to try to figure out a way to compensate people who have gone through what these people have gone through," he said.
Cited here: CNN
Four keys to getting consistent freelance work
by Erika-Marie Geiss
If your goal is to Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer (to borrow Jenna Glatzer’s title) there are four keys to getting consistent freelance work: planning, research, patience and networking
Set yourself up for success
Start with a business plan. It doesn’t need to be formal and it doesn’t have to be for anyone’s eyes but your own. In it, state your goals — whether it’s a specific number of new clips, number of new clients, certain publications, a dollar amount — that you set as goals and benchmarks. Write out how you plan to achieve those goals along with why you are a professional freelance writer, and within your niche, where your strengths and skills are.
Also, keep a running list or spreadsheet of where you submitted/applied with the following:
Date of submission/application
Name of the person, company or publication
Contact information for the person, company or publication
How you submitted/applied (snail mail or e-mail)
When to expect a response (if the company or publication indicates this)
What you sent as part of the application/submission)
A spot for the ultimate result of the submission/application
A spot for additional notes that you might want to make along the way
These are good ways to stay organized and keep on top of your goals.
Be ready by also having a cover letter template that you can tailor for each possible job/individual that you are applying for. Make sure that your résumé and clips are always up-to-date. And, as with any other bricks-and-mortar job, be ready to provide references in case you are asked to supply them. The employer might not mention the need for references in their job description and requirements, but if you get to the stage where you are speaking with someone either in-person, by telephone or via e-mail, it could come up.
Now that you’ve done that, you can set about the task of finding work or getting new clients.
Research your options
Of course, since you’re here at FWJ, you already know about reading daily job postings, but ask yourself, am I using them and the job boards at other locations for creative freelancers wisely? That is, to your best advantage? Even if you are up at dawn, checking the daily posts and have subscribed to all of the feeds, a bit of research can be the difference between wasting your time and finding a good fit (or two or three). In other words, don’t just submit blindly and right away. Not all job postings will give full disclosure about a company, so it might be tricky. But when the information is available, don’t hesitate to use it. Remember, just as much as they are going to be screening you as an applicant or candidate, you should be screening them as a good company or person to work with. The last thing you want is to end up with a gig where you are constantly banging your head and thinking, “why did I take this position/assignment?” (Yeah, we’ve all been there. And even if they do make great cocktail party horror stories, they’re not worth it.)
When you’ve established that four of the seven postings for which you are qualified will also be a good fit for you, apply with a cover letter and by following the requirements/guidelines to a “T.” (Don’t forget to be courteous and professional. Even in the freelance world, using proper business etiquette is still important.) If clips are requested, use the ones that best match the job. Beyond money, it’s also important to know why you want to work for that person or company or on that specific project. The employer is going to want someone who is as enthusiastic and committed to their project, venture or company as they are. (If you’re a mercenary, you can pretend.)
Sit and wait … and wait
This is where patience comes in. Remember that you are one of hundreds (sometimes thousands) of people who have responded for the call for a freelance writer. It takes time to triage the applications, so while you’re waiting, continue to apply for other jobs and network. Why network? You might find that someone is looking for your skills right now and with the recommendation from a friend or colleague, that person could be you. (If that does happen, don’t forget to thank the person who recommended you.)
Hooray! You’ve landed the gig
There you are with this short-term project. The money is good. The relationship with your client is good. The project is coming to an end. But does it need to? Not necessarily. Find out if there are other projects available—after all, you’ve already established a relationship with the client, which if it has been mutually beneficial, could turn into more work. If most of your assignments are very short term (such as writing for a publication) keep submitting and establish a positive working relationship with the editor(s). Get to know the publications that you write for so that you can think like they think, speak like they speak and be a voice that their audiences want to hear repeatedly. These will not only help you land the gig, but keep you from losing potential new ones.
By doing your homework, being prepared and remembering to network well, you may find yourself in the strange and wonderful position of needing to turn down jobs. (Of course, when that happens, don’t forget to refer your fellow freelance writers.)
What are some of your best practices for finding work and achieving your goals as a freelance writer?
Cited here: FLJ
If your goal is to Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer (to borrow Jenna Glatzer’s title) there are four keys to getting consistent freelance work: planning, research, patience and networking
Set yourself up for success
Start with a business plan. It doesn’t need to be formal and it doesn’t have to be for anyone’s eyes but your own. In it, state your goals — whether it’s a specific number of new clips, number of new clients, certain publications, a dollar amount — that you set as goals and benchmarks. Write out how you plan to achieve those goals along with why you are a professional freelance writer, and within your niche, where your strengths and skills are.
Also, keep a running list or spreadsheet of where you submitted/applied with the following:
Date of submission/application
Name of the person, company or publication
Contact information for the person, company or publication
How you submitted/applied (snail mail or e-mail)
When to expect a response (if the company or publication indicates this)
What you sent as part of the application/submission)
A spot for the ultimate result of the submission/application
A spot for additional notes that you might want to make along the way
These are good ways to stay organized and keep on top of your goals.
Be ready by also having a cover letter template that you can tailor for each possible job/individual that you are applying for. Make sure that your résumé and clips are always up-to-date. And, as with any other bricks-and-mortar job, be ready to provide references in case you are asked to supply them. The employer might not mention the need for references in their job description and requirements, but if you get to the stage where you are speaking with someone either in-person, by telephone or via e-mail, it could come up.
Now that you’ve done that, you can set about the task of finding work or getting new clients.
Research your options
Of course, since you’re here at FWJ, you already know about reading daily job postings, but ask yourself, am I using them and the job boards at other locations for creative freelancers wisely? That is, to your best advantage? Even if you are up at dawn, checking the daily posts and have subscribed to all of the feeds, a bit of research can be the difference between wasting your time and finding a good fit (or two or three). In other words, don’t just submit blindly and right away. Not all job postings will give full disclosure about a company, so it might be tricky. But when the information is available, don’t hesitate to use it. Remember, just as much as they are going to be screening you as an applicant or candidate, you should be screening them as a good company or person to work with. The last thing you want is to end up with a gig where you are constantly banging your head and thinking, “why did I take this position/assignment?” (Yeah, we’ve all been there. And even if they do make great cocktail party horror stories, they’re not worth it.)
When you’ve established that four of the seven postings for which you are qualified will also be a good fit for you, apply with a cover letter and by following the requirements/guidelines to a “T.” (Don’t forget to be courteous and professional. Even in the freelance world, using proper business etiquette is still important.) If clips are requested, use the ones that best match the job. Beyond money, it’s also important to know why you want to work for that person or company or on that specific project. The employer is going to want someone who is as enthusiastic and committed to their project, venture or company as they are. (If you’re a mercenary, you can pretend.)
Sit and wait … and wait
This is where patience comes in. Remember that you are one of hundreds (sometimes thousands) of people who have responded for the call for a freelance writer. It takes time to triage the applications, so while you’re waiting, continue to apply for other jobs and network. Why network? You might find that someone is looking for your skills right now and with the recommendation from a friend or colleague, that person could be you. (If that does happen, don’t forget to thank the person who recommended you.)
Hooray! You’ve landed the gig
There you are with this short-term project. The money is good. The relationship with your client is good. The project is coming to an end. But does it need to? Not necessarily. Find out if there are other projects available—after all, you’ve already established a relationship with the client, which if it has been mutually beneficial, could turn into more work. If most of your assignments are very short term (such as writing for a publication) keep submitting and establish a positive working relationship with the editor(s). Get to know the publications that you write for so that you can think like they think, speak like they speak and be a voice that their audiences want to hear repeatedly. These will not only help you land the gig, but keep you from losing potential new ones.
By doing your homework, being prepared and remembering to network well, you may find yourself in the strange and wonderful position of needing to turn down jobs. (Of course, when that happens, don’t forget to refer your fellow freelance writers.)
What are some of your best practices for finding work and achieving your goals as a freelance writer?
Cited here: FLJ
This Is One Of The Reasons Why I Chose To Lock My Hair
The woman in this picture isn't me, but her hair is an inspiration. :-)
Deputies Investigating Possible Murder-Suicide At A Jurupa Valley High School
JURUPA VALLEY (CBS) — Authorities are investigating a possible murder-suicide at a Riverside County high school.
Initial reports say that a shooting happened around 10:40 a.m. Radio broadcasts indicated a male and female may have been shot dead in front of the administration building at Patriot High School, 4355 Camino Real in Jurupa Valley.
The victims’ names or ages have not been released, but officials say neither person was a student at Patriot High School.
The high school was placed on lock down.
Cited here: CBS Los Angeles
Initial reports say that a shooting happened around 10:40 a.m. Radio broadcasts indicated a male and female may have been shot dead in front of the administration building at Patriot High School, 4355 Camino Real in Jurupa Valley.
The victims’ names or ages have not been released, but officials say neither person was a student at Patriot High School.
The high school was placed on lock down.
Cited here: CBS Los Angeles
Here's A Photograph Of My Internet Crush
Here's a picture of my internet crush, Melek Benji. I hope he doesn't find it creepy LMAO! I know he's a Hebrew Israelite and all, but I just don't understand why the hell he's in Egypt. In the interim, what do you ladies think? :-)
This is....Inexplicable...:-(
All she wanted to do, was have long flowing mane. I am so glad I stopped relaxing my hair a few years ago. Praise YAH! Warning: Viewer discretion is STRONGLY advised.
E. coli scare prompts Tyson to recall ground beef
EMPORIA, Kan. (AP) -- Tyson Fresh Meats Inc. is recalling about 131,300 pounds of ground beef because a family in Ohio fell ill after eating meat produced by the company that was contaminated with E. coli, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported Wednesday.
The recall involves Kroger, Butcher's and generic beef products that the South Dakota-based company produced at its plant in Emporia, Kan., on Aug. 23, the USDA said in a news release.
Tyson sold the beef to Kroger and Butcher. Company spokesman Gary Mickelson told The Associated Press that he did not have information readily available to determine which customer bought the generic brand of beef.
Four family members in Butler County, Ohio, became ill in the second week of September, said Butler County Health Department director Pat Burg, who declined to release the family's name.
One person was hospitalized for a week with severe diarrhea, Burg said. Ground beef from the family's home tested positive for the bacteria. No other cases have been reported in the southwest Ohio county, Burg said.
The products being recalled include 5-pound packages of Kroger-brand ground beef packed in 40-pound cases, with a product code of D-0211 QW, which was distributed in Tennessee and Indiana; 3-pound packages of Butcher's Brand beef packed in 36-pound cases with the code D-0211 LWIF, which was distributed in North and South Carolina; and 3-pound packages of generic labeled beef packed in 36-pound cases with a product code D-0211 LWI, which was sold in Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
The beef, all 73/27 lean to fat ratio, had a "best before" date of Sept. 12 and the number 245D inked on the packages.
Mickelson said in a news release that the ground beef was sold in pre-packaged printed tubes that are put directly into retail meat cases. He said it is likely that most of the affected product has already been consumed but urged consumers to check their freezers and return or discard any beef listed in the recall.
The beef was distributed to The Kroger Co., Food Lion, Inc.; SAV-A-LOT, Spectrum Foods, Inc., Supervalu and the Defense Commissary Agency.
Cited here: AP NEWS
The recall involves Kroger, Butcher's and generic beef products that the South Dakota-based company produced at its plant in Emporia, Kan., on Aug. 23, the USDA said in a news release.
Tyson sold the beef to Kroger and Butcher. Company spokesman Gary Mickelson told The Associated Press that he did not have information readily available to determine which customer bought the generic brand of beef.
Four family members in Butler County, Ohio, became ill in the second week of September, said Butler County Health Department director Pat Burg, who declined to release the family's name.
One person was hospitalized for a week with severe diarrhea, Burg said. Ground beef from the family's home tested positive for the bacteria. No other cases have been reported in the southwest Ohio county, Burg said.
The products being recalled include 5-pound packages of Kroger-brand ground beef packed in 40-pound cases, with a product code of D-0211 QW, which was distributed in Tennessee and Indiana; 3-pound packages of Butcher's Brand beef packed in 36-pound cases with the code D-0211 LWIF, which was distributed in North and South Carolina; and 3-pound packages of generic labeled beef packed in 36-pound cases with a product code D-0211 LWI, which was sold in Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
The beef, all 73/27 lean to fat ratio, had a "best before" date of Sept. 12 and the number 245D inked on the packages.
Mickelson said in a news release that the ground beef was sold in pre-packaged printed tubes that are put directly into retail meat cases. He said it is likely that most of the affected product has already been consumed but urged consumers to check their freezers and return or discard any beef listed in the recall.
The beef was distributed to The Kroger Co., Food Lion, Inc.; SAV-A-LOT, Spectrum Foods, Inc., Supervalu and the Defense Commissary Agency.
Cited here: AP NEWS
Blogsvertise Have Approved My Blog
This blog has been approved by Blogsvertise! YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYY! (Having a confetti party) This is the second blog they approved by me. :-)
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
I Don't Speak for Shock Value Because I'm Good At What I Do. :-)
I never speak for shock value because it comes organically. I'm just good at what I do. And quite obviously, my blog numbers are ascending higher and higher per day. And please don't forget that I'm an entertaining story and truth teller. I was born for this. And that's why you're still riding my blog like a jockey, Miss thang! LOL! Why you don't subscribe to my blog, you know you can't get enough of Boss Lady Writer. LMAO! Girl, you know you're an undercover aficionado. Don't even front! Welp, I'll add more content to my blog tomorrow. And I'm glad that you're enjoying the blog. It reminds me how I well I'm doing my job. That's why I cherish what I do. Thanks a bunch. :-)
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
Avon is My Best Friend!!!!
I love Avon products! In fact, I love it so much, I opened up my own online store. Browse my store and I'm sure you'll find something you love. Hannah's Avon Store.
Here's Another Way You Can Monetize Your Blog
Blog Better ATL
WHAT: Blog Better ATL
WHEN: Friday, October 14
WHERE: Urban Oasis Bed & Breakfast
PRICE: $499 (registration ends October 8)
ASB members receive discount
What is Blog Better ATL?
An 8 hour intensive on how to...you guessed it...blog better. We'll cover everything from presentation, professionalism, Photoshop and putting it all together. We're gonna take the whole day to break everything down in an incredible space - Urban Oasis - and have one of the best blogging experiences ever. Lunch will be provided by Lotta Frutta - so delish! - and there will be a few treats here and there as well :) Get excited. We're gonna have a blast! REMEMBER: Registration ends October 8. If you have any additional questions, email them to info@fortheloveofblog.com.
Visit this website for details: For the Love of Blogging
WHAT: Blog Better ATL
WHEN: Friday, October 14
WHERE: Urban Oasis Bed & Breakfast
PRICE: $499 (registration ends October 8)
ASB members receive discount
What is Blog Better ATL?
An 8 hour intensive on how to...you guessed it...blog better. We'll cover everything from presentation, professionalism, Photoshop and putting it all together. We're gonna take the whole day to break everything down in an incredible space - Urban Oasis - and have one of the best blogging experiences ever. Lunch will be provided by Lotta Frutta - so delish! - and there will be a few treats here and there as well :) Get excited. We're gonna have a blast! REMEMBER: Registration ends October 8. If you have any additional questions, email them to info@fortheloveofblog.com.
Visit this website for details: For the Love of Blogging
I'd Rather Be Single (The Novel)
It has taken me two days to read this book. I enjoyed every page and I'll be adding a review this week. Stay tuned and in the interim, you can review the book and excerpt on Amazon (Click link)
Interested In Becoming A Celebrity Gossip Blogger?
I find celebrity gossip blogs rather overrated and ridiculous. They aren't my cup of tea, but too each his/her own. So, someone passed me some information about an online company that is hiring celebrity gossip writers. If you're a celebrity gossip person who has a knack for gossip and media circus, you can inquire here: Feministas (click link)
Recipe for Crock Pot Candy
* 1 (16 ounce) jar dry roasted unsalted peanuts
* 1 (16 ounce) jar dry roasted salted peanuts
* 1 cup cocktail peanuts
* 1 (12 ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 (4 ounce) German chocolate bars (broken)
* 3 lbs white almond bark (broken)
1. put all ingredients into a 4 - 5 quart crock-pot in the order listed. cover and cook for 3 hours on low (do not open) turn off and cool for 30 minutes. mix well until all chocolate is dissolved and then pour onto buttered cookie sheets or drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper. cool. if you pour onto cookie sheets use a spatula to lift and then break into pieces.
Read more: Food.com
* 1 (16 ounce) jar dry roasted salted peanuts
* 1 cup cocktail peanuts
* 1 (12 ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 (4 ounce) German chocolate bars (broken)
* 3 lbs white almond bark (broken)
1. put all ingredients into a 4 - 5 quart crock-pot in the order listed. cover and cook for 3 hours on low (do not open) turn off and cool for 30 minutes. mix well until all chocolate is dissolved and then pour onto buttered cookie sheets or drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper. cool. if you pour onto cookie sheets use a spatula to lift and then break into pieces.
Read more: Food.com
This Crock Pot Candy Looks Delicious!
I wish I could come through the screen and snatch the bowl. Now, I see how Yogi Bear felt when he stole those picnic baskets. LOL!
20 Unhealthiest Frozen Meals
The freezer section’s premade concoctions may be convenient—but many are trans-fat and sodium bombs. The Daily Beast ranks the unhealthiest, from Stouffer’s to Lean Cuisine.
Cited here: The Daily Beast
Cited here: The Daily Beast
Supporters Raise Money for Troy Davis’ Funeral
Parishioners collected funds during a Sunday service for the memorial service expected to take place next Saturday.
By Danielle Wright
Posted: 09/26/2011 05:32 PM EDT
Filed Under Troy Davis
Anti-death penalty activists still have not lost their desire to seek justice in the case of Troy Davis, and now they’re raising money so that he can be properly laid to rest.
On Sunday, Reverend Raphael Warnock, pastor of Atlanta’s prominent and historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, called on his congregants to offer the Davis family help with funeral costs.
"The fact that the state of Georgia managed to execute Troy Davis in the face of this lingering doubt does not mean that that was the right answer, it simply means that we have a whole lot more work to do," Warnock said.
The donations were collected during this past Sunday’s service for the expected memorial, to be held next Saturday in Savannah.
Warnock said he believed that Davis was innocent, but even if he were not, the pastor said that the execution did not allow for mercy and that the Board of Pardons did not do what was right.
Troy Davis was executed Sept. 21 for the 1989 murder of off-duty Georgia police officer Mark MacPhail. His case received national support and attention from protestors who urged that he did not deserve to die and that his case had “too much doubt.”
“We have to move past that pain and do justice,” Warnock said. “The death penalty is still wrong.”
To contact or share story ideas with Danielle Wright, follow and tweet her at @DaniWrightTV.
Cited here: BET
By Danielle Wright
Posted: 09/26/2011 05:32 PM EDT
Filed Under Troy Davis
Anti-death penalty activists still have not lost their desire to seek justice in the case of Troy Davis, and now they’re raising money so that he can be properly laid to rest.
On Sunday, Reverend Raphael Warnock, pastor of Atlanta’s prominent and historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, called on his congregants to offer the Davis family help with funeral costs.
"The fact that the state of Georgia managed to execute Troy Davis in the face of this lingering doubt does not mean that that was the right answer, it simply means that we have a whole lot more work to do," Warnock said.
The donations were collected during this past Sunday’s service for the expected memorial, to be held next Saturday in Savannah.
Warnock said he believed that Davis was innocent, but even if he were not, the pastor said that the execution did not allow for mercy and that the Board of Pardons did not do what was right.
Troy Davis was executed Sept. 21 for the 1989 murder of off-duty Georgia police officer Mark MacPhail. His case received national support and attention from protestors who urged that he did not deserve to die and that his case had “too much doubt.”
“We have to move past that pain and do justice,” Warnock said. “The death penalty is still wrong.”
To contact or share story ideas with Danielle Wright, follow and tweet her at @DaniWrightTV.
Cited here: BET
S.W.O.T
S=strengths W=weaknesses O=opportunities T=threats
Ultimately you want to keep your strengths and opportunities in tact and turn your weaknesses and threats into strengths and opportunities. ~Clorissa Wright of Wrightway Public Relations
Ultimately you want to keep your strengths and opportunities in tact and turn your weaknesses and threats into strengths and opportunities. ~Clorissa Wright of Wrightway Public Relations
Looking to Monetize Your Blog?
You can gain revenue and more traffic through your blog just by registering your blog with Blogsvertise. I've been with them since last year and I receive simple assignments, which are usually blog posts. You can earn quick cash. The more you blog, the more assignments you'll receive. The only thing I don't like about Blogsvertise is, they pay every 30 days. Otherwise, it's extra income. Happy blogging! :-)
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
This Dude Has Me Feenin'
The more I think about my internet crush, the more I'd like to know more about him. Not only have I been told that he has a great sense of humor, I know he's into the Hebrew Israelite faith like I am, he's handsome, and his dome is screwed on tight. I pray that he and I speak to each over the phone or internet someday. But then again, he's not an internet aficionado. (Sighs) Perhaps we'll met in person someday and have bible study together. I have never felt this way about anyone. Could it be that I am falling for this guy without an introduction? It's scary...welp, if Yah's willing, we'll meet someday. Shout outs to Melek Benji! *Winks*
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
Ebony is Awaiting Your Purchase
Purchase your copy today, folks! Ebony is waiting. :-)
Available on Amazon (click link)
Available on Amazon (click link)
You Are Infamous NOT Famous
All I'm going to say is, this "editor" doesn't have enough magnanimity to express her rebuttals on her own website. Of course some of you already know who I'm alluding to. Any who, she accuses of me making her "famous" no, my dear, I'm not making you famous, because you've made yourself INFAMOUS. There's a difference. You may be famous in a sense but the community is talking. I seldom say anything about someone that isn't true. And I for one, have enough decency and civility to express my personal thoughts on MY blog, not in an open literary group. But you're welcome to stand on your soap box and collect all public sympathy you want, but you remember this, the creator isn't mocked. So continue putting your vagina on a pedestal, smelling yourself, and singing your negro spiritual. You're the one who's still dragging this issue, because you know it's true. All I'm doing is protracting it on MY blog. And let me ask you this, if you find me so "irrelevant", why do you continue following my blog? LOL! Better yet, you don't have to answer that question. I'd be delighted to answer that for ya, dear. The reason you follow my blog is because 1.) Since I haven't consorted with you in over five months, you still give a shit about what I have to say. Even after you had subliminally denounced me in that literary group. LOL. 2.) You met someone who is unafraid to expose the foul putrid shadiness that you exude as an editor. And you know the truth is devouring your soul like a flesh eating bacteria. You don't have to voice it because your actions speak for their self lol. If anything, you should try to quash the matter that's encircling your reputation and purify your soul of the evilness, thievery, whoredom, and opportunism that has put you this predicament in the first place. LOL! My heart doesn't bleed for you, but my ASS does. Whatever issue I have with a person, I openly express it here. I don't have time e-thugging in people's inboxes and hurling "threats" at them all day. So, I suggest you apologize to the people you raped (Which you won't) because at the end of the day, we ALL are aware of our faults, and the truth shall prevail. And I know the smile you're wearing isn't a genuine one. I digress....:-)
Bossladywriter
Bossladywriter
Monday, September 26, 2011
The Only Woman Electrocuted in Georgia's Electric Chair
Such is the story of Lena Baker, an African-American mother of three, who was electrocuted at the Georgia State Prison in Reidsville.
She was convicted for the fatal shooting of E. B. Knight, a white Cuthbert, Georgia mill operator she was hired to care for after he broke his leg. She was 44 and the only woman ever executed in Georgia’s electric chair. For Baker, a Black maid in the segregated south in the 1940’s, her story was a tough sell to a jury of 12 white men. And rumors that she was romantically involved with victim E. B. Knight did not help.
Her murder trial lasted just a day, without a single witness called by her court-appointed lawyer. She was convicted and sentenced to death. John Cole Vodicka, director of an Americus-based inmate advocacy program known as the Prison and Jail Project, said Knight had kept Ms. Baker as his "virtual sex slave." She was his paramour, she was his mistress, and, among other things, his drinking partner. If you read the transcript and have any understanding of black-white relations, Black women were often subjected to the sexual whims of their white masters, their white bosses, or some white man who had control over their lives or the lives of their families. "Here is one who resisted and paid the price.”
The undertaker who brought her body back to Cuthbert buried her in a grave that went unmarked for five decades, until the congregation of Mount Vernon Baptist Church raised $250 for a concrete slab and marker. Relatives are still trying to clear her name with the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole.
Lena Baker, who had a sixth-grade education, stated publicly her innocence to the very end. “What I done, I did in self-defense," she said in her final statement. "I have nothing against anyone. I am ready to meet my God.”
A novel, The Lena Baker Story, authored by Lela Bond Phillips, chronicles her life. This book was the basis for a screenplay by actor/director Ralph Wilcox filmed in 2007 in Southwest Georgia. The film, also entitled "The Lena Baker Story," stars Tichina Arnold in the title role, Peter Coyote, Beverly Todd and Michael Rooker and is due for theatrical release in Spring 2009.
Cited here: Flickr
She was convicted for the fatal shooting of E. B. Knight, a white Cuthbert, Georgia mill operator she was hired to care for after he broke his leg. She was 44 and the only woman ever executed in Georgia’s electric chair. For Baker, a Black maid in the segregated south in the 1940’s, her story was a tough sell to a jury of 12 white men. And rumors that she was romantically involved with victim E. B. Knight did not help.
Her murder trial lasted just a day, without a single witness called by her court-appointed lawyer. She was convicted and sentenced to death. John Cole Vodicka, director of an Americus-based inmate advocacy program known as the Prison and Jail Project, said Knight had kept Ms. Baker as his "virtual sex slave." She was his paramour, she was his mistress, and, among other things, his drinking partner. If you read the transcript and have any understanding of black-white relations, Black women were often subjected to the sexual whims of their white masters, their white bosses, or some white man who had control over their lives or the lives of their families. "Here is one who resisted and paid the price.”
The undertaker who brought her body back to Cuthbert buried her in a grave that went unmarked for five decades, until the congregation of Mount Vernon Baptist Church raised $250 for a concrete slab and marker. Relatives are still trying to clear her name with the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole.
Lena Baker, who had a sixth-grade education, stated publicly her innocence to the very end. “What I done, I did in self-defense," she said in her final statement. "I have nothing against anyone. I am ready to meet my God.”
A novel, The Lena Baker Story, authored by Lela Bond Phillips, chronicles her life. This book was the basis for a screenplay by actor/director Ralph Wilcox filmed in 2007 in Southwest Georgia. The film, also entitled "The Lena Baker Story," stars Tichina Arnold in the title role, Peter Coyote, Beverly Todd and Michael Rooker and is due for theatrical release in Spring 2009.
Cited here: Flickr
Juanita "Jezebella" Bynum
Do you guys remember Juanita Bynum? LOL! I almost forgot about her! After she was publicly humiliated by her then husband, Bishop Eddie Weekes, a few years ago, she's been "Incognegra" not that I condone domestic violence, because I'm totally against it. I just find it comical that a pulpit vulture such as Juanita "Jezebella" Bynum, still manages to thrive LAVISHLY off her followers after she splurged millions of dollars on her extravagant wedding and spent $600.00 on a funky ass writing utensil. Not that I'm singling her out, because there's a horde of pulpit vultures like her. I'm just making an observation. And let's not forget about her lengthy Repunzel hair extensions and plastic surgeries. Here you people are, handing this woman all of your money and you're on the brink of pauper-hood. Do you really think she and the rest of the pimps and pimpettes give a damn about your problems? Just continue sowing a seed (Feeding her pocket book) and watch your blessings fall out of the sky and into your lap. (Sardonically chuckling). But hey, how one can wholly blame this Procuress when they're allowing her to tickle their ears. Hell, it's a recession. She's got to get in where ever she fits in! Even if she has to pimp domestic violence organizations and domestic violence victims. I have a question for you Juanita "Jezebella" Bynum, did you sell your $600.00 pen to compensate your lawyer after your husband flogged you? (Sipping tea and filing my finger nails, while patiently awaiting your response)
Now, this calls for Three-Six Mafia's "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" I dedicate this song to you, Juanita "Jezebella" Bynum and all the other pimps and whores in the WOOORRLLD!
Now, this calls for Three-Six Mafia's "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" I dedicate this song to you, Juanita "Jezebella" Bynum and all the other pimps and whores in the WOOORRLLD!
My Internet Crush
I was told that my internet crush is Trinidadian, he's 36, he's a Brooklynite, and he's an English teacher. And I don't think he's spoken for. But it's too bad he resides in Cairo, Egypt. SMH (Shakes My Head)
Beauty Escape Make-Up Bar
Atlanta Ladies ~ Another super fab event you don't want to miss! I'll be a Vendor here too! Sweet packages available -- Martinis & Makeovers! You can still get tickets for 50% off from Half Off Depot!
Click link: Facebook
Click link: Facebook
He was 14 yrs. 6mos. and 5 days old --- and the youngest person executed in the United States in the 20th Century
George Junius Stinney, Jr.,
[b. 1929 - d. 1944]
In a South Carolina prison sixty-six years ago, guards walked a 14-year-old boy, bible tucked under his arm, to the electric chair. At 5' 1" and 95 pounds, the straps didn’t fit, and an electrode was too big for his leg.
The switch was pulled and the adult sized death mask fell from George Stinney’s face. Tears streamed from his eyes. Witnesses recoiled in horror as they watched the youngest person executed in the United States in the past century die.
Now, a community activist is fighting to clear Stinney’s name, saying the young boy couldn’t have killed two girls. George Frierson, a school board member and textile inspector, believes Stinney’s confession was coerced, and that his execution was just another injustice blacks suffered in Southern courtrooms in the first half of the 1900s.
In a couple of cases like Stinney’s, petitions are being made before parole boards and courts are being asked to overturn decisions made when society’s thumb was weighing the scales of justice against blacks. These requests are buoyed for the first time in generations by money, college degrees and sometimes clout.
“I hope we see more cases like this because it help brings a sense of closure. It’s symbolic,” said Howard University law professor Frank Wu. “It’s not just important for the individuals and their families. It’s important for the entire community. Not just for African Americans, but for whites and for our democracy as a whole. What these cases show is that it is possible to achieve justice.”
Some have already achieved justice. Earlier this year, syndicated radio host Tom Joyner successfully won a posthumous pardon for two great uncles who were executed in South Carolina.
A few years ago Lena Baker, a black Georgia maid sent to the electric chair for killing a white man, received a pardon after her family pointed out she likely killed the man because he was holding her against her will.
In the Stinney case, supporters want the state to admit that officials executed the wrong person in June 1944.
Stinney was accused of killing two white girls, 11 year old Betty June Binnicker and 8 year old
Mary Emma Thames, by beating them with a railroad spike then dragging their bodies to a ditch near Acolu, about five miles from Manning in central South Carolina. The girls were found a day after they disappeared following a massive manhunt. Stinney was arrested a few hours later, white men in suits taking him away. Because of the risk of a lynching, Stinney was kept at a jail 50 miles away in Columbia.
Stinney’s father, who had helped look for the girls, was fired immediately and ordered to leave his home and the sawmill where he worked. His family was told to leave town prior to the trial to avoid further retribution. An atmosphere of lynch mob hysteria hung over the courthouse. Without family visits, the 14 year old had to endure the trial and death alone.
Frierson hasn’t been able to get the case out of his head since, carrying around a thick binder of old newspaper stories and documents, including an account from an execution witness.
The sheriff at the time said Stinney admitted to the killings, but there is only his word — no written record of the confession has been found. A lawyer helping Frierson with the case figures threats of mob violence and not being able to see his parents rattled the seventh- grader.
Attorney Steve McKenzie said he has even heard one account that says detectives offered the boy ice cream once they were done.
“You’ve got to know he was going to say whatever they wanted him to say,” McKenzie said.
The court appointed Stinney an attorney — a tax commissioner preparing for a Statehouse run. In all, the trial — from jury selection to a sentence of death — lasted one day. Records indicate 1,000 people crammed the courthouse. Blacks weren’t allowed inside.
The defense called no witnesses and never filed an appeal. No one challenged the sheriff’s recollection of the confession.
“As an attorney, it just kind of haunted me, just the way the judicial system worked to this boy’s disadvantage or disfavor. It did not protect him,” said McKenzie, who is preparing court papers to ask a judge to reopen the case.
Stinney’s official court record contains less than two dozen pages, several of them arrest warrants. There is no transcript of the trial.
The lack of records, while not unusual, makes it harder for people trying to get these old convictions overturned, Wu said.
But these old cases also can have a common thread.
“Some of these cases are so egregious, so extreme that when you look at it, the prosecution really has no case either,” Wu said. “It’s apparent from what you can see that someone was railroaded.”
And sometimes, police under pressure by frightened citizens jumped to conclusions rather than conducting a thorough investigation, Wu said.
Bluffton Today - 'Crusaders look to right Jim Crow justice wrongs' by Jeffrey Collins
Cited here: Flikr
[b. 1929 - d. 1944]
In a South Carolina prison sixty-six years ago, guards walked a 14-year-old boy, bible tucked under his arm, to the electric chair. At 5' 1" and 95 pounds, the straps didn’t fit, and an electrode was too big for his leg.
The switch was pulled and the adult sized death mask fell from George Stinney’s face. Tears streamed from his eyes. Witnesses recoiled in horror as they watched the youngest person executed in the United States in the past century die.
Now, a community activist is fighting to clear Stinney’s name, saying the young boy couldn’t have killed two girls. George Frierson, a school board member and textile inspector, believes Stinney’s confession was coerced, and that his execution was just another injustice blacks suffered in Southern courtrooms in the first half of the 1900s.
In a couple of cases like Stinney’s, petitions are being made before parole boards and courts are being asked to overturn decisions made when society’s thumb was weighing the scales of justice against blacks. These requests are buoyed for the first time in generations by money, college degrees and sometimes clout.
“I hope we see more cases like this because it help brings a sense of closure. It’s symbolic,” said Howard University law professor Frank Wu. “It’s not just important for the individuals and their families. It’s important for the entire community. Not just for African Americans, but for whites and for our democracy as a whole. What these cases show is that it is possible to achieve justice.”
Some have already achieved justice. Earlier this year, syndicated radio host Tom Joyner successfully won a posthumous pardon for two great uncles who were executed in South Carolina.
A few years ago Lena Baker, a black Georgia maid sent to the electric chair for killing a white man, received a pardon after her family pointed out she likely killed the man because he was holding her against her will.
In the Stinney case, supporters want the state to admit that officials executed the wrong person in June 1944.
Stinney was accused of killing two white girls, 11 year old Betty June Binnicker and 8 year old
Mary Emma Thames, by beating them with a railroad spike then dragging their bodies to a ditch near Acolu, about five miles from Manning in central South Carolina. The girls were found a day after they disappeared following a massive manhunt. Stinney was arrested a few hours later, white men in suits taking him away. Because of the risk of a lynching, Stinney was kept at a jail 50 miles away in Columbia.
Stinney’s father, who had helped look for the girls, was fired immediately and ordered to leave his home and the sawmill where he worked. His family was told to leave town prior to the trial to avoid further retribution. An atmosphere of lynch mob hysteria hung over the courthouse. Without family visits, the 14 year old had to endure the trial and death alone.
Frierson hasn’t been able to get the case out of his head since, carrying around a thick binder of old newspaper stories and documents, including an account from an execution witness.
The sheriff at the time said Stinney admitted to the killings, but there is only his word — no written record of the confession has been found. A lawyer helping Frierson with the case figures threats of mob violence and not being able to see his parents rattled the seventh- grader.
Attorney Steve McKenzie said he has even heard one account that says detectives offered the boy ice cream once they were done.
“You’ve got to know he was going to say whatever they wanted him to say,” McKenzie said.
The court appointed Stinney an attorney — a tax commissioner preparing for a Statehouse run. In all, the trial — from jury selection to a sentence of death — lasted one day. Records indicate 1,000 people crammed the courthouse. Blacks weren’t allowed inside.
The defense called no witnesses and never filed an appeal. No one challenged the sheriff’s recollection of the confession.
“As an attorney, it just kind of haunted me, just the way the judicial system worked to this boy’s disadvantage or disfavor. It did not protect him,” said McKenzie, who is preparing court papers to ask a judge to reopen the case.
Stinney’s official court record contains less than two dozen pages, several of them arrest warrants. There is no transcript of the trial.
The lack of records, while not unusual, makes it harder for people trying to get these old convictions overturned, Wu said.
But these old cases also can have a common thread.
“Some of these cases are so egregious, so extreme that when you look at it, the prosecution really has no case either,” Wu said. “It’s apparent from what you can see that someone was railroaded.”
And sometimes, police under pressure by frightened citizens jumped to conclusions rather than conducting a thorough investigation, Wu said.
Bluffton Today - 'Crusaders look to right Jim Crow justice wrongs' by Jeffrey Collins
Cited here: Flikr
Would You Fire Someone for Planking?
A GameStop employee posts a photo of himself planking, and gets himself and the co-worker who took the picture, fired.
By Courtney Rubin | Sep 2, 2011
GameStop's business is entertainment, but the company made it clear that those on the clock shouldn't be partaking in the fun and games.
The Grapevine, Texas-based company fired an employee who went planking on the job, as well as the fellow employee who snapped the photo of him doing so between two in-store kiosks.
John Mazzocchi, a four-year GameStop employee, planked in what looked like an empty store in Long Island, New York. He Tweeted two photos of himself: one from behind the register, planking between the back and front counters, and another between two merchandise displays. Along with the photos, he Tweeted, "When I go #planking I go hardcore."
Planking is an online craze—started in Australia and New Zealand—where people post pictures of themselves laying flat as a board on Twitter and Facebook. The stranger/weirder/riskier the place you plank, the more online props you get. (Yes, planking can be dangerous: In May, a 20-year-old Australian died trying to show himself planking off the side of an apartment building roof.)
GameStop is known for aggressively monitoring employees' social media activity, and the company has a clause in its employment contract saying employees can be terminated for what they say online about the company.
Mazzocchi, a "senior game adviser," was fired for misconduct. A letter he posted about being denied unemployment benefits noted: "You were employed in a supervisory position and were expected to follow and uphold the employer's policies. Your intentional act to share your on-duty actions via social networking media shows complete disregard for your employer and it is considered a rise to the level of gross negligence."
Cited here: INC
By Courtney Rubin | Sep 2, 2011
GameStop's business is entertainment, but the company made it clear that those on the clock shouldn't be partaking in the fun and games.
The Grapevine, Texas-based company fired an employee who went planking on the job, as well as the fellow employee who snapped the photo of him doing so between two in-store kiosks.
John Mazzocchi, a four-year GameStop employee, planked in what looked like an empty store in Long Island, New York. He Tweeted two photos of himself: one from behind the register, planking between the back and front counters, and another between two merchandise displays. Along with the photos, he Tweeted, "When I go #planking I go hardcore."
Planking is an online craze—started in Australia and New Zealand—where people post pictures of themselves laying flat as a board on Twitter and Facebook. The stranger/weirder/riskier the place you plank, the more online props you get. (Yes, planking can be dangerous: In May, a 20-year-old Australian died trying to show himself planking off the side of an apartment building roof.)
GameStop is known for aggressively monitoring employees' social media activity, and the company has a clause in its employment contract saying employees can be terminated for what they say online about the company.
Mazzocchi, a "senior game adviser," was fired for misconduct. A letter he posted about being denied unemployment benefits noted: "You were employed in a supervisory position and were expected to follow and uphold the employer's policies. Your intentional act to share your on-duty actions via social networking media shows complete disregard for your employer and it is considered a rise to the level of gross negligence."
Cited here: INC
Niceeee! :-)
This young lady is too cute for words! You'll have to click on the photo or click this link to see the entire picture: ATL PROFILE :-)
Saturday, September 24, 2011
These Are So Beautiful
Stormy Weather, Rain & Snow Cloud Earrings, 16K Gold Plated
Esty.com
Fashion Alloy Owl Earrings, Dangle Earrings, Ancient Silver And Ancient
AliXpress.com
Esty.com
Fashion Alloy Owl Earrings, Dangle Earrings, Ancient Silver And Ancient
AliXpress.com
My First Novel Review! :-)
You can visit all the platforms my book is cataloged in to read the review. Shout outs to Danielle Taylor! Thanks, love! Purchase your copy today and leave a review! Click the the links below. :-)
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Shelfari
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Shelfari
Place Order Today, Folks! :-)
Browse and place your order through my Avon store today! :-)
And my novel "Ebony the Beloved" is available on Amazon :-)
And my novel "Ebony the Beloved" is available on Amazon :-)
Friday, September 23, 2011
US: Thousands of white bass turn up dead in Arkansas River
Wildlife officials have discovered thousands of dead fish along the Arkansas River in Little Rock and were still counting carcasses on Tuesday, a day after an angler reported seeing dozens of dead white bass.
"We are on the river trying to determine the extent of the fish kill," said Keith Stephens, public information coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Wildlife investigators said the dead fish were mainly white bass, which are common in the river, and were between 5 and 8 inches long. Most were found near the foot of the Two Rivers Bridge, an 80-foot pedestrian bridge that opened in July.
An Arkansas Department of Pollution Control and Ecology official said toxins had not been eliminated as a potential cause and that oxygen levels had tested normal so far. Other test results for disease and parasites could take a month to conclude.
In late December, thousands of freshwater drum and yellow bass died in the Arkansas River. A month later, 500 more drum died. Officials later determined that the fish kills were likely caused by increases in atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen in the water after spillway gates were opened.
The massive winter fish kill had appeared especially alarming because it occurred around the same time thousands of red-winged blackbirds dropped dead from the sky on New Year's Eve near Beebe, Arkansas.
Studies later concluded that the birds died from blunt force trauma possibly caused by unusually loud noises.
Fish kills are not uncommon, according to the game and fish officials, and are often caused by reduced oxygen in the water, algae bloom or overpopulation. Infectious disease, parasites and toxicity can also cause fish kills.
Stephens said that because Monday's discovery was in a different location from the fish kills last winter, the white bass deaths were unlikely to be caused by gas bubble trauma.
Seasonal changes in water temperature can also cause such deaths, officials said.
Cited here: Scott.net
"We are on the river trying to determine the extent of the fish kill," said Keith Stephens, public information coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Wildlife investigators said the dead fish were mainly white bass, which are common in the river, and were between 5 and 8 inches long. Most were found near the foot of the Two Rivers Bridge, an 80-foot pedestrian bridge that opened in July.
An Arkansas Department of Pollution Control and Ecology official said toxins had not been eliminated as a potential cause and that oxygen levels had tested normal so far. Other test results for disease and parasites could take a month to conclude.
In late December, thousands of freshwater drum and yellow bass died in the Arkansas River. A month later, 500 more drum died. Officials later determined that the fish kills were likely caused by increases in atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen in the water after spillway gates were opened.
The massive winter fish kill had appeared especially alarming because it occurred around the same time thousands of red-winged blackbirds dropped dead from the sky on New Year's Eve near Beebe, Arkansas.
Studies later concluded that the birds died from blunt force trauma possibly caused by unusually loud noises.
Fish kills are not uncommon, according to the game and fish officials, and are often caused by reduced oxygen in the water, algae bloom or overpopulation. Infectious disease, parasites and toxicity can also cause fish kills.
Stephens said that because Monday's discovery was in a different location from the fish kills last winter, the white bass deaths were unlikely to be caused by gas bubble trauma.
Seasonal changes in water temperature can also cause such deaths, officials said.
Cited here: Scott.net
John Walsh: 'Barbie was based on a cartoon prostitute who'd do anything for money'
Tales of the City
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
Next month should be fun for the people at Mattel Corp, the global toy-maker. They're about to inaugurate a year of jolly events to celebrate the 50th birthday of Barbie, the doll whose unfeasibly long legs are matched by the unfeasibility of her huge bosom. Now a writer called Jerry Oppenheimer is all set to pee on their fireworks by publishing Toy Monster: The Big Bad World of Mattel, in which the designer who came up with Barbie, one Jack Ryan, is revealed as a bit of a perve.
Much married (once to Zsa Zsa Gabor) and voraciously omnisexual, Ryan liked to hang out with busty prostitutes and high-class call girls who reminded him of his creation. He seems to have conducted real Seventies orgies (like the ones in The Joy of Sex) at his Bel-Air home with several Barbie-alikes, and took an unsavoury interest in the woman who provided the voice of Barbie in a series of talking dolls. He didn't have the doll's voice-box adjusted to say, "Give it to me right now, big boy," but he seems to have had trouble distinguishing extruded plastic women from ones made of flesh.
Are we surprised by Ryan's obsession? Mattel has for years stressed the healthy, clean-living, elegant, professional-career-woman side of their most lucrative toy, her importance as a role-model for girls, her function as a dream of successful womanhood (Engineer Barbie, Consultant Surgeon Barbie, but not Washed-Up Single Mother On Council Estate Barbie) and her utter lack of sexual identity. Despite the vast bosom, she never possessed nipples or genitalia; despite her boyfriend Ken (based on the son of the founder of Mattel, who turned out to be gay), she was never likely to become Pregnant Barbie or Hackney Slapper Barbie. But when we read Ryan's former friend Stephen Gnass explaining how, "when Jack talked about creating Barbie, it was like listening to somebody talking about a sexual episode... It was almost like listening to a sexual pervert," we could be forgiven for wondering: what's been going on in the nursery all these years? Can it be that Barbie, instead of being for 50 years a limber, apple-cheeked, sporty tomboy with a big future in the boardroom, had always been an emblem of the female playthings Ryan so casually enjoyed for cash? And have their little-girl owners always realised?
A trawl of the internet brings the alarming news that Barbie was modelled on a German doll, a three-dimensional representation of a fictional prostitute called Lilli in the comic-strip of a German newspaper, Bild Zeitung. She serviced German businessmen and was cheeky to the cops. Platinum-haired and tarty, she would do anything with sweaty clients, provided the money was right. This was the doll Ryan encountered in 1955, and he adjusted it for the consumption of American children, by tidying up her lips and filing off her nipples. You can just see the thin smile on his leery face as he turned her into his kinda girl. Yeesh.
In the new Harlot magazine (I get it for the agony column), Tracy Quan, the author of Confessions of a Manhattan Call-Girl, claims Barbie as a role-model for her generation of prostitutes, because of the way she concealed her murky past beneath Attorney Barbie respectability. "Marketed as a harmless plaything, the all-American prom queen turns out to have been a foreign whore on the run," Quan writes. "Somehow, the kind of girl your brother couldn't take home to Mom became a role model for millions of young girls." Elsewhere in the magazine, a San Franciscan writer called Cintra Wilson shockingly recalls how she used to arrange for her Barbie doll to have sex with a gruff and violent GI Joe. "Barbie is no unconscious sexual icon to children," she writes. "Even at seven, we knew she was a wanton, submissive bimbo."
OhMiGod. What have I allowed into the children's innocent lives over the years? Has the presence of 15 or 20 Barbies in the nursery been an unconscious replaying of one of Ryan's orgies? Have the dolls been transmitting messages of sexual compliance into the children's cerebral cortices? I think, guiltily, of the party where I talked to an acquaintance who'd never been to my house before. "It's lovely," he said, "to meet your beautiful daughter." I pointed out that I have two – which did he mean? "The one that's dressed like a hooker," he replied. I thought about it. "Sorry," I said. "Could be either."
Cited here: The Independent Columnist
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
Next month should be fun for the people at Mattel Corp, the global toy-maker. They're about to inaugurate a year of jolly events to celebrate the 50th birthday of Barbie, the doll whose unfeasibly long legs are matched by the unfeasibility of her huge bosom. Now a writer called Jerry Oppenheimer is all set to pee on their fireworks by publishing Toy Monster: The Big Bad World of Mattel, in which the designer who came up with Barbie, one Jack Ryan, is revealed as a bit of a perve.
Much married (once to Zsa Zsa Gabor) and voraciously omnisexual, Ryan liked to hang out with busty prostitutes and high-class call girls who reminded him of his creation. He seems to have conducted real Seventies orgies (like the ones in The Joy of Sex) at his Bel-Air home with several Barbie-alikes, and took an unsavoury interest in the woman who provided the voice of Barbie in a series of talking dolls. He didn't have the doll's voice-box adjusted to say, "Give it to me right now, big boy," but he seems to have had trouble distinguishing extruded plastic women from ones made of flesh.
Are we surprised by Ryan's obsession? Mattel has for years stressed the healthy, clean-living, elegant, professional-career-woman side of their most lucrative toy, her importance as a role-model for girls, her function as a dream of successful womanhood (Engineer Barbie, Consultant Surgeon Barbie, but not Washed-Up Single Mother On Council Estate Barbie) and her utter lack of sexual identity. Despite the vast bosom, she never possessed nipples or genitalia; despite her boyfriend Ken (based on the son of the founder of Mattel, who turned out to be gay), she was never likely to become Pregnant Barbie or Hackney Slapper Barbie. But when we read Ryan's former friend Stephen Gnass explaining how, "when Jack talked about creating Barbie, it was like listening to somebody talking about a sexual episode... It was almost like listening to a sexual pervert," we could be forgiven for wondering: what's been going on in the nursery all these years? Can it be that Barbie, instead of being for 50 years a limber, apple-cheeked, sporty tomboy with a big future in the boardroom, had always been an emblem of the female playthings Ryan so casually enjoyed for cash? And have their little-girl owners always realised?
A trawl of the internet brings the alarming news that Barbie was modelled on a German doll, a three-dimensional representation of a fictional prostitute called Lilli in the comic-strip of a German newspaper, Bild Zeitung. She serviced German businessmen and was cheeky to the cops. Platinum-haired and tarty, she would do anything with sweaty clients, provided the money was right. This was the doll Ryan encountered in 1955, and he adjusted it for the consumption of American children, by tidying up her lips and filing off her nipples. You can just see the thin smile on his leery face as he turned her into his kinda girl. Yeesh.
In the new Harlot magazine (I get it for the agony column), Tracy Quan, the author of Confessions of a Manhattan Call-Girl, claims Barbie as a role-model for her generation of prostitutes, because of the way she concealed her murky past beneath Attorney Barbie respectability. "Marketed as a harmless plaything, the all-American prom queen turns out to have been a foreign whore on the run," Quan writes. "Somehow, the kind of girl your brother couldn't take home to Mom became a role model for millions of young girls." Elsewhere in the magazine, a San Franciscan writer called Cintra Wilson shockingly recalls how she used to arrange for her Barbie doll to have sex with a gruff and violent GI Joe. "Barbie is no unconscious sexual icon to children," she writes. "Even at seven, we knew she was a wanton, submissive bimbo."
OhMiGod. What have I allowed into the children's innocent lives over the years? Has the presence of 15 or 20 Barbies in the nursery been an unconscious replaying of one of Ryan's orgies? Have the dolls been transmitting messages of sexual compliance into the children's cerebral cortices? I think, guiltily, of the party where I talked to an acquaintance who'd never been to my house before. "It's lovely," he said, "to meet your beautiful daughter." I pointed out that I have two – which did he mean? "The one that's dressed like a hooker," he replied. I thought about it. "Sorry," I said. "Could be either."
Cited here: The Independent Columnist
Dawah Yisrael "Definition of Broke Ass"
Last night, my father showed me this video and I all to say is, I was disgusted while nearly laughing my lungs out. Dawah Yisrael gave a straight face as he spoke against homosexuality and how it derives from European sodomy.
DISCLAIMER: The images in this video are disturbing and graphic. And some of you may find his no chaser approach affronting. You are viewing this video at your own discretion. This video is not appropriate for young viewers or the work place.
DISCLAIMER: The images in this video are disturbing and graphic. And some of you may find his no chaser approach affronting. You are viewing this video at your own discretion. This video is not appropriate for young viewers or the work place.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
The Unedited Excerpt From My Second Novel: "The Bold and the Ugly Truth"
Chapter 1.) In Jesus’ Name……. Amen…
Samuel looked straight into the camera lenses. His posture was straight, ands he stared into the eyes of America. He looked rather distinguished in his navy blue pinstripe suit. His processed hair was sleek like Duke Ellington’s, and his stoned facial expression lent him a mysterious air. As soon as he opened his mouth, one would think Billy Dee Williams had died and reincarnated himself inside of him. Samuel sounded precisely like him—cool, calm, and collected. When he spoke, it was like the whole atmosphere came to a standstill.
“To all the soldiers in the Middle East, I’m going to pray for your safe return. I take my hat off to all of you for selflessly defending our beautiful nation. My heart also goes out to the families of those soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty. I want to take this God sent opportunity to praise our Father. Let us all pray.” Samuel closed his eyes and put both of his hands together.
“Dear Lord, I ask that you lay your hands on the brave soldiers who are sacrificing their lives for this wonderful nation. I ask that you bring every last one of them back home in one piece so that they can reunite with their loved ones. As for those who aren’t fortunate enough to still be alive, I know it was in your will. They are now in your hands and they will forever live on through their families. You are the reason for the season and I love you more than I love myself. I will lay my life down for you. In Jesus’ name…Amen.”
“Amen,” the congregation repeated in unison. Samuel finally opened his eyes. His prayers were always powerful and heartfelt. His members always commended him for his epic sermons, but they had no clue that his prayers and sermons weren’t genuine. If they had been mind readers, they would have been shocked by the thoughts that were jumping around in his head. Because all the while he was thinking,“Christianity really makes my balls itch!”
Chapter 2.) Overbearing Father
Samuel was glad to finally be home. He sat in his La-Z-Boy and removed his shoes; he was pooped. “I sure could use a can of Miller Light,” he thought. Samuel hadn’t consumed alcohol since he took the pastoral oath at the World Faith Missionary Baptist Church nine years ago. He released a frustrated sigh. His wife Pauline was in the kitchen preparing supper while his daughter Chastity was upstairs watching “That’s So Raven.” By this time, he was normally in his office working on his sermon, but he didn’t feel like doing anything that night. All he wanted to do was get his mind off of church,. So he planned to eat dinner, watch a movie, make love to his wife and call it a night. He was flipping through the channels until he saw the infamous pastor Kerney Thomas acting like a world class fool. Pastor Thomas’s sermons were so devised and comical, that he could have won a Tony award for “Best Fraudulent Pastor.” The way Pastor Thomas was whooping and hollering, people had to be out of their wits to take him seriously.
“This nigga is a fool ass clown, but he’s funny as hell,” Samuel thought.
He felt a laugh coming on; Pastor Thomas’s performance wasn’t going to allow him
to sit in his La-Z-Boy and watch without laughing his head off. As soon as Pastor Thomas screamed, “Gawwwwddd!” Samuel almost fell out of his seat. He was laughing so hard, he nearly choked on his tongue. His laughter and cough alarmed Pauline, and she quickly stormed into the living room to see what was going on.
“Are you okay, Sweetie?” she asked. Samuel finally sat up and cleared his throat.
“Yes Baby, everything is fine. I’m just laughing at this silly pastor on television.,” he replied. Pauline screwed up her face as if she had caught Samuel watching pornography.
“Lord have mercy. What on earth are you doing watching that no good clown preacher?
The network should pull the plug on his ministry; because he’s got a lot of nerve behaving the way he does. I ought to call that network and complain about his so-called ministry. He ought be ashamed of himself; , but the Lord is going to strike the fakeness out of him,” she huffed.
Whenever Pauline got upset, her nose would turn red like a beet. “I couldn’t agree with you more Baby, but I give the man props for being a good comedian.” Samuel laughed again, but Pauline wasn’t the least bit amused. She walked over to the television and turned it off.
“What did you do that for?!” he complained. What he really wanted to say was, “Bitch, have you lost your damn mind?!”, but he didn’t want to incite an argument. Pauline was two months pregnant with their second child, and the last thing he wanted to do was upset her.
“Samuel Lee Baker, you are a man of the cloth. Watching other pastors mock the Lord is just wrong. You’re a best-selling author with over 40,000 church minions and a seven-year-old daughter. You should be setting a better example than this. What do you have to say for yourself?” she asked.
Samuel loved when Pauline frowned. It made her look even more stunning. Whenever she got mad, she would wiggle her sharp nose and poke out her pouty lips. She stood at 5 feet 9 inches tall, with a cocoa butter complexion, full pouty lips, and striking yellow-brown eyes. People constantly reminded her that she looked like Jada Pinkett-Smith and Kerry Washington. Samuel felt his shaft rise like a biscuit. Her sexy frown was turning him on. He stared at her and remained silent. She was very familiar with that seductive look.
“Oh no, Mister! You aren’t getting off the hook that easily. Undressing me with your eyes isn’t going to work this time,” she said. Samuel continued ignoring her and stood to approached her.
“Samuel, I’m serious,” she said as she tried to muster up the most serious face possible, but it didn’t work. Samuel slowly walked towards her and finally said,
“I know Baby, and I’m sorry.” His Billy Dee Williams-like voice was enough to give her nipples goose bumps.
“Samuel, I’m not playing with you.,” she said, but Pauline was finding it difficult to resist a smileing.
“You look so sexy when you pout.,” Hhe said as he wrapped his strong arms around her small waist and began showering her with kisses.
He started kissing on her neck and nibbling on her right earlobe. She released a moan and forgot about the way she’d scolded him earlier for watching Pastor Thomas. The scent of Samuel’s cologne was intoxicating. She and Samuel could have embraced each other all night long in that same spot without moving. They stared into each other’s eyes and began kissing. Samuel parted her lips with his tongue; he picked her up and was about to carry her upstairs when he heard the door bell ring.
“Ain’t this about a son of a bitch?!” he thought.
Whoever was ringing his door after 7 p.m. had better have a good damn excuse for derailing his love making plans. Samuel wanted to cuss out whoever the uninvited visitor was. He really wanted to ignore the visitor, but the determined visitor rang the doorbell three more consecutive times.
“Sweetie, let me go see who it is,” Pauline said.
“Come on, Baby; I’m sure it’s probably only one of the girl scouts again,” Samuel replied.
“What if it’s something important, Samuel? It could be a life or death situation,” Pauline pointed out. Samuel sucked his teeth and finally put Pauline down. She walked to the door to see who it was.
“Who is it?” she asked.
“It’s Woodrow. Open up the door!” The deep voice demanded.
“Just a minute, Papa Woodrow!” Pauline said.
Woodrow was Samuel’s overly religious father. He was a proud and righteous man.
You see, Woodrow was a God fearing perfectionist who lived vicariously through the Bible. No matter how hard Samuel tried to please him, it just wasn’t sufficient enough.
“It’s your daddy,” Pauline whispered.
“Well, don’t just stand there. Let him in!” Samuel hissed.
He wasn’t necessarily hissing at Pauline; he was really mad at his father for inflicting himself upon him and his family at an inconvenient time. As soon as Pauline opened the door, Woodrow rudely zipped past her without acknowledging her presence.
“Hey Pop. What can I do for ya?” Samuel dryly asked.
“Son, I need a favor from you!” Woodrow replied.
Samuel looked at his father as if he’d told him he was dying from prostate cancer, because he wasn’t used to his father asking him for favors. He was used to his father’s harsh criticisms. Therefore, being asked a favor by his father was very foreign.
“I need you to visit Sista Rosetta at the nursing home tomorrow morning, because I plan to go fishing with two of the deacons from Holy Mary’s Catholic Church.” Woodrow’s request sounded more like an order.
“Pop, I have a sermon to do tomorrow and I plan to take Pauline and Chastity out for dinner afterwards. Pauline and I haven’t been spending enough quality time together lately. Shouldn’t your visit with Rosetta take priority over fishing with the other pastors?”
Samuel was shocked himself withby his last sentence, because he never questioned his father. Even though Samuel was a grown man with his own family, he was somewhat intimidated by his father. Woodrow was a no nonsense disciplinarian and a pastor. Samuel’s mother had died when he was born and Woodrow had had to raise him on his own. Woodrow made sure that his son was in church every single day. Whenever Samuel misbehaved, his father would beat him with switches, punch him, and force him to read and recite the whole Bible to him. Samuel wasn’t allowed to have friends, and his father only made him listen to gospel music. Samuel loved his father, but he hated him for every punishment he’d subjected him to. He still had welt scars on his back from the switches beatings his father had inflicted upon him.
“Are you sassing me boy?!” Woodrow railed.
“No sir,” Samuel replied. “Young man, you are never too old to be disciplined. As long as I’m breathing, I’m still your father. Remember the scriptures, honor thy father and honor thy mother? Well you better act like you know! Tomorrow you’re going down to that nursing home after church, and you’re going to say a prayer for Sista Rosetta. Do I make myself clear boy?” he asked.
Woodrow’s eyes were so wide, they looked like they were going to fall out of their sockets. He wasn’t taking “Nno” for answer. Samuel just stood there looking defeated. No one said anything for two seconds., That was wthen Pauline finally broke the ice.
“Daddy Woodrow, what Samuel’s trying to say is that he works very hard, and he needs to spend time with me and our daughter. Honestly, it isn’t fair for you to renege on your promise to Sista Rosetta by making Samuel pick up the slack.”
“Umm, with all due respect Pauline, my boy is the one I’m talking to, not you. So, I really see no reason for you to voice your opinion. I mean, he is the bread winner and the man.,” Woodrow replied.
“I beg your pardon?” Pauline snapped.
“I’m sure you heard me clearly, Pauline. Perhaps you need me to use sign language to get my point across,” Woodrow retorted.
“Let me tell you one thing…” Pauline began. Samuel intervened,
“Pauline, why don’t you go into the kitchen and continue preparing supper.”
Just before Pauline could protest, Samuel cut her off to prevent her from getting a word in edgewise.
“Pauline please! I’ll handle it. Just go into the kitchen and continue preparing our meal, okay?”
When Samuel gave her a reassuring look, she shot a scowl at Woodrow, who was smirking like a Cheshire cat. She cut her eyes at him and stomped off into the kitchen mumbling incoherently under her breath.
“Pop, you didn’t have to be so mean to her,” Samuel said.
“Look here boy, you are the man of this house, and she’s the woman of this house. Her duty is to serve and obey you, not question you or get into your manly business.”
As Woodrow spoke, spit flew out of his mouth and specks of it landed on Samuel’s upper lip. Samuel wiped it off with the cuff of his sleeves. He wanteds trying to choose his words wisely., because Hhe didn’t want to say anything that would fuel his father’s anger.
“I love my wife. She is my rib, and I treat her as an equal because she’s an important aspect to our marriage. I love her and our daughter very much.,” he finally said.
“Boy, let me tell you something. As soon as you give a woman too much power, she’ll start bossing you around as if she’s the one with a twig and berries between her thighs. It’s bad enough these women think they can do anything a man can do,” his father replied.
Samuel was about to speak up, but Woodrow silenced him before he could utter another word.
“Boy, do not interrupt me while I’m talking.”
“Sorry sir,” Samuel said and dropped his head like he used to do whenever his father scolded him for being disobedient.
“Now, as I was saying, every since these women were granted the constitutional right to vote and be treated equally, they’ve wanted to take over the world! If I had my way, they’d be at home, bare foot, pregnant, tending to their men and in church every day. That’s how it was during the biblical times, son. You of all people should know that. A woman should always know her place. Don’t ever let your woman forget that. I ain’t raise no wimp. I raised a man. Understood?” his father asked as he ended his lecture. Samuel didn’t appreciate how his father pigeonholed women as servants. Listening to his father’s chauvinistic views about women being inferiors was enough to make him want to strangle him. It wasn’t like Samuel wasn’t physically capable of doing so either. He was five inches taller than his father and he outweighed him by a hundred pounds. Samuel was built like a gladiator on the outside, but he felt like the same timid little boy on the inside. “Boy, look at me when I’m talking to you!” his father demanded. Samuel obliged and gave his father full eye contact like a soldier in training. It was times like these that Samuel despised his father for his callous and controlling behavior. Getting his manhood crushed by his father felt like a spit in the face. Woodrow’s blunt words cut straight through the bone marrow. The best thing Samuel could say was, “Yes sir.” Woodrow changed the subject as if nothing had ever happened.
“Where’s my precious grand baby?” he asked.
“She’s upstairs watching TV,” Samuel replied. Woodrow shouted for Chastity as if he lived there.
“Chastity, come downstairs young lady. Your paw-paw is here!” Chastity was downstairs within 20 seconds.
“Paw-Paw!” she exclaimed as she ran to him and wrapped her skinny arms around his wide pot belly.
You would have thought she’d seen Santa Claus. In a sense. Woodrow was like Santa Claus to her, because whenever he saw her, he would always give her money or lollipops.
“How’s my only grand baby doing?” Woodrow asked and smiled so wide, you could see every last one of his teeth. “I’m doing fine Paw-Paw,” Chastity replied. She was adorable with her two thick long pigtails. She was a ray of sunshine and she was the spitting image of her mother.
“Are you reading your Bible everyday, young lady?” he asked.
“Yes, Paw-Paw” she innocently answered.
“Good girl! Your paw-paw’s got something for you,” he said. Woodrow reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. He fished out 10 dollars out and handed it to her.
“Thank you Paw-Paw” she said happily.
“You’re welcome, Doll.” Woodrow gave Chastity a bear hug and kissed her on the forehead.
“You be good!” he said.
“Ok, Paw-Paw!” she replied.
Chastity was as happy as a lark as she skipped up the stairs. It broke Samuel’s heart to watch his father exhibit so much affection to his granddaughter., because Woodrow had never been that affectionate to Samuel when he was Chastity’s age. All he’d ever done was beat him and belittle him. He never even called him by his first name. He always referred to him as “Boy” or “Son”. He called him “Boy” when he was mad at him, and called him “Son” when he was happy about something or wanted Samuel to do something for him. So, as a child, Samuel promised himself he would never mistreat his future children the way his father mistreated him.
“When is your wife dropping that little rascal she’s carrying?” Woodrow dryly inquired.
“She’s two months pregnant. The baby is due to arrive on April 15th.,” Samuel replied. Woodrow released a grunt. Samuel wasn’t sure what his father meant by that.
“Well, she’d better have a boy this time, because males are already outnumbered by females in this country. I mean, don’t get me wrong. I love my granddaughter, but I’ll be completely happy when I have a grandson. On my father’s side, there were all nothing but males. We Baker men only produce males. You and Pauline are going to have a boy!” he exclaimed.
Woodrow just wouldn’t let up. He was talking as if he had the authority to decide which gender the baby was going to be. He was way out of line, and Samuel was hoping he would leave as soon as possible. Fortunately, his prayers were answered.
“Welp, like I said before, you’ll be visiting Sista Rosetta while I’ll be fishing with the fellas, and I’ll make sure that you did what I told you to do. I’m going home to read my Bible. I won’t be having dinner with you tonight. That wife of yours is pretty, but her cooking ain’t worth feeding to the roaches.” Woodrow chuckled at his own obnoxious comment. Samuel wasn’t amused.
“Good riddance.” Samuel thought.
“See ya later, Son.,” Woodrow said as he left.
“See ya, Pop.”
Samuel was crushed. He always allowed his father to get the best of him. In spite of him being one of the most richest, prominent and influential televangelists of his time, his father still had a way of making him feel like a squished centipede. Yep! Woodrow was a bona fide mood killer, because Samuel had lost his appetite for dinner and sex. Those painful childhood memories sent chills down his spine. All he wanted to do was, forget about his father’s impromptu visit and go straight to bed.
Samuel looked straight into the camera lenses. His posture was straight, ands he stared into the eyes of America. He looked rather distinguished in his navy blue pinstripe suit. His processed hair was sleek like Duke Ellington’s, and his stoned facial expression lent him a mysterious air. As soon as he opened his mouth, one would think Billy Dee Williams had died and reincarnated himself inside of him. Samuel sounded precisely like him—cool, calm, and collected. When he spoke, it was like the whole atmosphere came to a standstill.
“To all the soldiers in the Middle East, I’m going to pray for your safe return. I take my hat off to all of you for selflessly defending our beautiful nation. My heart also goes out to the families of those soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty. I want to take this God sent opportunity to praise our Father. Let us all pray.” Samuel closed his eyes and put both of his hands together.
“Dear Lord, I ask that you lay your hands on the brave soldiers who are sacrificing their lives for this wonderful nation. I ask that you bring every last one of them back home in one piece so that they can reunite with their loved ones. As for those who aren’t fortunate enough to still be alive, I know it was in your will. They are now in your hands and they will forever live on through their families. You are the reason for the season and I love you more than I love myself. I will lay my life down for you. In Jesus’ name…Amen.”
“Amen,” the congregation repeated in unison. Samuel finally opened his eyes. His prayers were always powerful and heartfelt. His members always commended him for his epic sermons, but they had no clue that his prayers and sermons weren’t genuine. If they had been mind readers, they would have been shocked by the thoughts that were jumping around in his head. Because all the while he was thinking,“Christianity really makes my balls itch!”
Chapter 2.) Overbearing Father
Samuel was glad to finally be home. He sat in his La-Z-Boy and removed his shoes; he was pooped. “I sure could use a can of Miller Light,” he thought. Samuel hadn’t consumed alcohol since he took the pastoral oath at the World Faith Missionary Baptist Church nine years ago. He released a frustrated sigh. His wife Pauline was in the kitchen preparing supper while his daughter Chastity was upstairs watching “That’s So Raven.” By this time, he was normally in his office working on his sermon, but he didn’t feel like doing anything that night. All he wanted to do was get his mind off of church,. So he planned to eat dinner, watch a movie, make love to his wife and call it a night. He was flipping through the channels until he saw the infamous pastor Kerney Thomas acting like a world class fool. Pastor Thomas’s sermons were so devised and comical, that he could have won a Tony award for “Best Fraudulent Pastor.” The way Pastor Thomas was whooping and hollering, people had to be out of their wits to take him seriously.
“This nigga is a fool ass clown, but he’s funny as hell,” Samuel thought.
He felt a laugh coming on; Pastor Thomas’s performance wasn’t going to allow him
to sit in his La-Z-Boy and watch without laughing his head off. As soon as Pastor Thomas screamed, “Gawwwwddd!” Samuel almost fell out of his seat. He was laughing so hard, he nearly choked on his tongue. His laughter and cough alarmed Pauline, and she quickly stormed into the living room to see what was going on.
“Are you okay, Sweetie?” she asked. Samuel finally sat up and cleared his throat.
“Yes Baby, everything is fine. I’m just laughing at this silly pastor on television.,” he replied. Pauline screwed up her face as if she had caught Samuel watching pornography.
“Lord have mercy. What on earth are you doing watching that no good clown preacher?
The network should pull the plug on his ministry; because he’s got a lot of nerve behaving the way he does. I ought to call that network and complain about his so-called ministry. He ought be ashamed of himself; , but the Lord is going to strike the fakeness out of him,” she huffed.
Whenever Pauline got upset, her nose would turn red like a beet. “I couldn’t agree with you more Baby, but I give the man props for being a good comedian.” Samuel laughed again, but Pauline wasn’t the least bit amused. She walked over to the television and turned it off.
“What did you do that for?!” he complained. What he really wanted to say was, “Bitch, have you lost your damn mind?!”, but he didn’t want to incite an argument. Pauline was two months pregnant with their second child, and the last thing he wanted to do was upset her.
“Samuel Lee Baker, you are a man of the cloth. Watching other pastors mock the Lord is just wrong. You’re a best-selling author with over 40,000 church minions and a seven-year-old daughter. You should be setting a better example than this. What do you have to say for yourself?” she asked.
Samuel loved when Pauline frowned. It made her look even more stunning. Whenever she got mad, she would wiggle her sharp nose and poke out her pouty lips. She stood at 5 feet 9 inches tall, with a cocoa butter complexion, full pouty lips, and striking yellow-brown eyes. People constantly reminded her that she looked like Jada Pinkett-Smith and Kerry Washington. Samuel felt his shaft rise like a biscuit. Her sexy frown was turning him on. He stared at her and remained silent. She was very familiar with that seductive look.
“Oh no, Mister! You aren’t getting off the hook that easily. Undressing me with your eyes isn’t going to work this time,” she said. Samuel continued ignoring her and stood to approached her.
“Samuel, I’m serious,” she said as she tried to muster up the most serious face possible, but it didn’t work. Samuel slowly walked towards her and finally said,
“I know Baby, and I’m sorry.” His Billy Dee Williams-like voice was enough to give her nipples goose bumps.
“Samuel, I’m not playing with you.,” she said, but Pauline was finding it difficult to resist a smileing.
“You look so sexy when you pout.,” Hhe said as he wrapped his strong arms around her small waist and began showering her with kisses.
He started kissing on her neck and nibbling on her right earlobe. She released a moan and forgot about the way she’d scolded him earlier for watching Pastor Thomas. The scent of Samuel’s cologne was intoxicating. She and Samuel could have embraced each other all night long in that same spot without moving. They stared into each other’s eyes and began kissing. Samuel parted her lips with his tongue; he picked her up and was about to carry her upstairs when he heard the door bell ring.
“Ain’t this about a son of a bitch?!” he thought.
Whoever was ringing his door after 7 p.m. had better have a good damn excuse for derailing his love making plans. Samuel wanted to cuss out whoever the uninvited visitor was. He really wanted to ignore the visitor, but the determined visitor rang the doorbell three more consecutive times.
“Sweetie, let me go see who it is,” Pauline said.
“Come on, Baby; I’m sure it’s probably only one of the girl scouts again,” Samuel replied.
“What if it’s something important, Samuel? It could be a life or death situation,” Pauline pointed out. Samuel sucked his teeth and finally put Pauline down. She walked to the door to see who it was.
“Who is it?” she asked.
“It’s Woodrow. Open up the door!” The deep voice demanded.
“Just a minute, Papa Woodrow!” Pauline said.
Woodrow was Samuel’s overly religious father. He was a proud and righteous man.
You see, Woodrow was a God fearing perfectionist who lived vicariously through the Bible. No matter how hard Samuel tried to please him, it just wasn’t sufficient enough.
“It’s your daddy,” Pauline whispered.
“Well, don’t just stand there. Let him in!” Samuel hissed.
He wasn’t necessarily hissing at Pauline; he was really mad at his father for inflicting himself upon him and his family at an inconvenient time. As soon as Pauline opened the door, Woodrow rudely zipped past her without acknowledging her presence.
“Hey Pop. What can I do for ya?” Samuel dryly asked.
“Son, I need a favor from you!” Woodrow replied.
Samuel looked at his father as if he’d told him he was dying from prostate cancer, because he wasn’t used to his father asking him for favors. He was used to his father’s harsh criticisms. Therefore, being asked a favor by his father was very foreign.
“I need you to visit Sista Rosetta at the nursing home tomorrow morning, because I plan to go fishing with two of the deacons from Holy Mary’s Catholic Church.” Woodrow’s request sounded more like an order.
“Pop, I have a sermon to do tomorrow and I plan to take Pauline and Chastity out for dinner afterwards. Pauline and I haven’t been spending enough quality time together lately. Shouldn’t your visit with Rosetta take priority over fishing with the other pastors?”
Samuel was shocked himself withby his last sentence, because he never questioned his father. Even though Samuel was a grown man with his own family, he was somewhat intimidated by his father. Woodrow was a no nonsense disciplinarian and a pastor. Samuel’s mother had died when he was born and Woodrow had had to raise him on his own. Woodrow made sure that his son was in church every single day. Whenever Samuel misbehaved, his father would beat him with switches, punch him, and force him to read and recite the whole Bible to him. Samuel wasn’t allowed to have friends, and his father only made him listen to gospel music. Samuel loved his father, but he hated him for every punishment he’d subjected him to. He still had welt scars on his back from the switches beatings his father had inflicted upon him.
“Are you sassing me boy?!” Woodrow railed.
“No sir,” Samuel replied. “Young man, you are never too old to be disciplined. As long as I’m breathing, I’m still your father. Remember the scriptures, honor thy father and honor thy mother? Well you better act like you know! Tomorrow you’re going down to that nursing home after church, and you’re going to say a prayer for Sista Rosetta. Do I make myself clear boy?” he asked.
Woodrow’s eyes were so wide, they looked like they were going to fall out of their sockets. He wasn’t taking “Nno” for answer. Samuel just stood there looking defeated. No one said anything for two seconds., That was wthen Pauline finally broke the ice.
“Daddy Woodrow, what Samuel’s trying to say is that he works very hard, and he needs to spend time with me and our daughter. Honestly, it isn’t fair for you to renege on your promise to Sista Rosetta by making Samuel pick up the slack.”
“Umm, with all due respect Pauline, my boy is the one I’m talking to, not you. So, I really see no reason for you to voice your opinion. I mean, he is the bread winner and the man.,” Woodrow replied.
“I beg your pardon?” Pauline snapped.
“I’m sure you heard me clearly, Pauline. Perhaps you need me to use sign language to get my point across,” Woodrow retorted.
“Let me tell you one thing…” Pauline began. Samuel intervened,
“Pauline, why don’t you go into the kitchen and continue preparing supper.”
Just before Pauline could protest, Samuel cut her off to prevent her from getting a word in edgewise.
“Pauline please! I’ll handle it. Just go into the kitchen and continue preparing our meal, okay?”
When Samuel gave her a reassuring look, she shot a scowl at Woodrow, who was smirking like a Cheshire cat. She cut her eyes at him and stomped off into the kitchen mumbling incoherently under her breath.
“Pop, you didn’t have to be so mean to her,” Samuel said.
“Look here boy, you are the man of this house, and she’s the woman of this house. Her duty is to serve and obey you, not question you or get into your manly business.”
As Woodrow spoke, spit flew out of his mouth and specks of it landed on Samuel’s upper lip. Samuel wiped it off with the cuff of his sleeves. He wanteds trying to choose his words wisely., because Hhe didn’t want to say anything that would fuel his father’s anger.
“I love my wife. She is my rib, and I treat her as an equal because she’s an important aspect to our marriage. I love her and our daughter very much.,” he finally said.
“Boy, let me tell you something. As soon as you give a woman too much power, she’ll start bossing you around as if she’s the one with a twig and berries between her thighs. It’s bad enough these women think they can do anything a man can do,” his father replied.
Samuel was about to speak up, but Woodrow silenced him before he could utter another word.
“Boy, do not interrupt me while I’m talking.”
“Sorry sir,” Samuel said and dropped his head like he used to do whenever his father scolded him for being disobedient.
“Now, as I was saying, every since these women were granted the constitutional right to vote and be treated equally, they’ve wanted to take over the world! If I had my way, they’d be at home, bare foot, pregnant, tending to their men and in church every day. That’s how it was during the biblical times, son. You of all people should know that. A woman should always know her place. Don’t ever let your woman forget that. I ain’t raise no wimp. I raised a man. Understood?” his father asked as he ended his lecture. Samuel didn’t appreciate how his father pigeonholed women as servants. Listening to his father’s chauvinistic views about women being inferiors was enough to make him want to strangle him. It wasn’t like Samuel wasn’t physically capable of doing so either. He was five inches taller than his father and he outweighed him by a hundred pounds. Samuel was built like a gladiator on the outside, but he felt like the same timid little boy on the inside. “Boy, look at me when I’m talking to you!” his father demanded. Samuel obliged and gave his father full eye contact like a soldier in training. It was times like these that Samuel despised his father for his callous and controlling behavior. Getting his manhood crushed by his father felt like a spit in the face. Woodrow’s blunt words cut straight through the bone marrow. The best thing Samuel could say was, “Yes sir.” Woodrow changed the subject as if nothing had ever happened.
“Where’s my precious grand baby?” he asked.
“She’s upstairs watching TV,” Samuel replied. Woodrow shouted for Chastity as if he lived there.
“Chastity, come downstairs young lady. Your paw-paw is here!” Chastity was downstairs within 20 seconds.
“Paw-Paw!” she exclaimed as she ran to him and wrapped her skinny arms around his wide pot belly.
You would have thought she’d seen Santa Claus. In a sense. Woodrow was like Santa Claus to her, because whenever he saw her, he would always give her money or lollipops.
“How’s my only grand baby doing?” Woodrow asked and smiled so wide, you could see every last one of his teeth. “I’m doing fine Paw-Paw,” Chastity replied. She was adorable with her two thick long pigtails. She was a ray of sunshine and she was the spitting image of her mother.
“Are you reading your Bible everyday, young lady?” he asked.
“Yes, Paw-Paw” she innocently answered.
“Good girl! Your paw-paw’s got something for you,” he said. Woodrow reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. He fished out 10 dollars out and handed it to her.
“Thank you Paw-Paw” she said happily.
“You’re welcome, Doll.” Woodrow gave Chastity a bear hug and kissed her on the forehead.
“You be good!” he said.
“Ok, Paw-Paw!” she replied.
Chastity was as happy as a lark as she skipped up the stairs. It broke Samuel’s heart to watch his father exhibit so much affection to his granddaughter., because Woodrow had never been that affectionate to Samuel when he was Chastity’s age. All he’d ever done was beat him and belittle him. He never even called him by his first name. He always referred to him as “Boy” or “Son”. He called him “Boy” when he was mad at him, and called him “Son” when he was happy about something or wanted Samuel to do something for him. So, as a child, Samuel promised himself he would never mistreat his future children the way his father mistreated him.
“When is your wife dropping that little rascal she’s carrying?” Woodrow dryly inquired.
“She’s two months pregnant. The baby is due to arrive on April 15th.,” Samuel replied. Woodrow released a grunt. Samuel wasn’t sure what his father meant by that.
“Well, she’d better have a boy this time, because males are already outnumbered by females in this country. I mean, don’t get me wrong. I love my granddaughter, but I’ll be completely happy when I have a grandson. On my father’s side, there were all nothing but males. We Baker men only produce males. You and Pauline are going to have a boy!” he exclaimed.
Woodrow just wouldn’t let up. He was talking as if he had the authority to decide which gender the baby was going to be. He was way out of line, and Samuel was hoping he would leave as soon as possible. Fortunately, his prayers were answered.
“Welp, like I said before, you’ll be visiting Sista Rosetta while I’ll be fishing with the fellas, and I’ll make sure that you did what I told you to do. I’m going home to read my Bible. I won’t be having dinner with you tonight. That wife of yours is pretty, but her cooking ain’t worth feeding to the roaches.” Woodrow chuckled at his own obnoxious comment. Samuel wasn’t amused.
“Good riddance.” Samuel thought.
“See ya later, Son.,” Woodrow said as he left.
“See ya, Pop.”
Samuel was crushed. He always allowed his father to get the best of him. In spite of him being one of the most richest, prominent and influential televangelists of his time, his father still had a way of making him feel like a squished centipede. Yep! Woodrow was a bona fide mood killer, because Samuel had lost his appetite for dinner and sex. Those painful childhood memories sent chills down his spine. All he wanted to do was, forget about his father’s impromptu visit and go straight to bed.
Snakes in the Pulpit
I will be purchasing my copy soon! Such an inspiration! :-)
Available on Amazon! :-)
"Crooks and Homos in the Pulpit" also by Reuben Armstrong
Available on Amazon! :-)
"Crooks and Homos in the Pulpit" also by Reuben Armstrong
Killer spared from death hours before execution
By Matthew Bigg
ATLANTA | Thu May 22, 2008 7:49pm EDT
(Reuters) - The parole board in the state of Georgia spared a convicted killer from execution hours before he was due to die by lethal injection on Thursday and commuted his sentence to life in prison.
The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles made its decision less than three hours before Samuel David Crowe, 47, was to be executed, according to a spokeswoman for the state's prisons.
"After careful and exhaustive consideration of the requests, the board voted to grant clemency. The board voted to commute the sentence to life without parole," the parole board said.
Crowe's death would have marked the third execution since the U.S. Supreme Court lifted an unofficial moratorium on the death penalty last month.
Crowe was not present at the parole board hearing in Atlanta. He had already eaten his last meal and was preparing to enter the execution chamber at the prison in Jackson, Georgia, Mallie McCord of the Georgia Department of Corrections said.
In March 1988, Crowe killed store manager Joseph Pala during a robbery at the lumber company in Douglas County, west of Atlanta. Crowe, who had previously worked at the store, shot Pala three times with a pistol, beat him with a crowbar and a pot of paint.
Crowe pleaded guilty to armed robbery and murder and was sentenced to death the following year.
"David (Crowe) takes full responsibility for his crime and experiences profound remorse," according to Georgians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, an advocacy group, who welcomed the board's decision.
At Thursday's hearing, his lawyers presented a dossier of evidence attesting to his remorse and good behavior in jail, according to local media reports. The lawyers also said he was suffering from withdrawal symptoms from a cocaine addiction at the time of the crime.
The U.S. Supreme Court on April 16 rejected a challenge to the three-drug cocktail used in most U.S. executions, which opponents claimed inflicted unnecessary pain. Georgia then conducted an execution on May 5.
Georgia has executed 41 men since the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1973 and this week it had 109 prisoners on death row.
(Editing by Tom Brown) Cited here: Reuters
ATLANTA | Thu May 22, 2008 7:49pm EDT
(Reuters) - The parole board in the state of Georgia spared a convicted killer from execution hours before he was due to die by lethal injection on Thursday and commuted his sentence to life in prison.
The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles made its decision less than three hours before Samuel David Crowe, 47, was to be executed, according to a spokeswoman for the state's prisons.
"After careful and exhaustive consideration of the requests, the board voted to grant clemency. The board voted to commute the sentence to life without parole," the parole board said.
Crowe's death would have marked the third execution since the U.S. Supreme Court lifted an unofficial moratorium on the death penalty last month.
Crowe was not present at the parole board hearing in Atlanta. He had already eaten his last meal and was preparing to enter the execution chamber at the prison in Jackson, Georgia, Mallie McCord of the Georgia Department of Corrections said.
In March 1988, Crowe killed store manager Joseph Pala during a robbery at the lumber company in Douglas County, west of Atlanta. Crowe, who had previously worked at the store, shot Pala three times with a pistol, beat him with a crowbar and a pot of paint.
Crowe pleaded guilty to armed robbery and murder and was sentenced to death the following year.
"David (Crowe) takes full responsibility for his crime and experiences profound remorse," according to Georgians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, an advocacy group, who welcomed the board's decision.
At Thursday's hearing, his lawyers presented a dossier of evidence attesting to his remorse and good behavior in jail, according to local media reports. The lawyers also said he was suffering from withdrawal symptoms from a cocaine addiction at the time of the crime.
The U.S. Supreme Court on April 16 rejected a challenge to the three-drug cocktail used in most U.S. executions, which opponents claimed inflicted unnecessary pain. Georgia then conducted an execution on May 5.
Georgia has executed 41 men since the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1973 and this week it had 109 prisoners on death row.
(Editing by Tom Brown) Cited here: Reuters
Are You Looking For An Upstanding Graphic Designer?
Hey, folks!
This lady's name is Donna Osbourn Clark. She's a reputable and respectable graphic designer and she's proficient at what she does. I'm giving her a shout out, because she's all about assisting new authors and watching them grow into literary sensations. So, if you're in dire need of a graphic designer, Donna Osbourn Clark is the appropriate person to contact. You can visit her website, where you can review her designs and testimonials: Creation by Donna (click link). She can also be reached on Facebook and here: Contact form
This lady's name is Donna Osbourn Clark. She's a reputable and respectable graphic designer and she's proficient at what she does. I'm giving her a shout out, because she's all about assisting new authors and watching them grow into literary sensations. So, if you're in dire need of a graphic designer, Donna Osbourn Clark is the appropriate person to contact. You can visit her website, where you can review her designs and testimonials: Creation by Donna (click link). She can also be reached on Facebook and here: Contact form
R & B Singer Lloyd is One of The Underdogs of R&B
I find it hilariously sickening when I see these groupies on Lloyd's penis like fleas and flies on bison shit. Can't these BLIND heifers see that this man is the UNDER DOG of R&B? Lloyd may be the king of hearts, but all the countless voting on BET and Singersroom aren't going to make him the king of charts. His music is great and he's very fortunate-looking to stare at, but let's face it, he's an underdog. I think he'll never get the props he's entitled too. I admit I'm not crazy about this newly released "videographed" single "Dedication to My Ex (Miss that Pussy)" It's too raunchy for my fancy. But that's my opinion and yes, groupies, I'm entitled to my opinions and druthers. So, if any of you are reading this blog post and you dislike it, TOUGH HOG MAWS! This is my blog and I say what mean and I mean what I say. I didn't purchase Lloyd's latest album because 1.) I'm gearing up for my book signings and I need the money to set up shop to help him out. 2.) His sophomore album, "Street Love" is his best album to date. Hands down. 3.) I'll buy his fourth album when I'm ready to buy it.
Any who, as I was saying, most of these voting polls are rigged. And these Lloyd stans and groupies are wasting their valuable time voting the way they do. I'm a fan, sure enough, but I'm also a realistic fan. Lloyd has been raped by his previous record label (Which I refuse to name) but you guys know who I'm alluding to: PERV Fatti (Irv Gotti) that's right! Lloyd has never had a dependable solid promotional team with that dirt napping record label. The same with his current record label: Interscope. His 4th album was pushed back a couple of times and when it was released, many people stated they didn't know he released an album. All his album had to show for it was 26,000 copies on the first week of being release. CATACLYSMIC MASSIVE EPIC FAAAAAAIIIIIL! Even I knew his album wasn't promoted sufficiently. And that it wasn't going to get the recognition it deserves. On the night of the EBT Awards, this man wasn't admitted into the main show. He was only allowed to perform at the pre-show. And when the Patty Labelle tribute commenced, he wasn't allowed to perform on stage with her! Keep in mind, he recorded a duet with her on the remix of "Lay it Down" come on now! Now, people think he's going to be nominated for a Grammy! What the funky smelly gym socks?! SMGDH (Shakes my goddamn head).
These stans and groupies are so consumed with delirium, they don't even know their tongue from their left nostril! I can't wait to see what they're going to do when this man doesn't get nominated for a Grammy next year. Let alone receive a Grammy! LOL Any who, I support Lloyd in everything he does, but he needs to cull out his professional circle. Because the lack of attention he's getting is unjust. And don't get me started with that pseudo ass fan club of his. Cuz' it's been over two years and they STILL haven't scratched the surface. LMAO! I'm only speaking about the people are getting PAID to promote this man while not doing shit for him. That's why he needs to hire me and cut the check! Because I'm one thousand times better at what I do. That is why I mentioned his name a few times in my book, which is available on Amazon. (Click link) And I'm sure it's going to surpass his fourth album sales and catapult his career. Purchase your copy today! IT'S YOUNG GOLDIE BABYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!! :-)
Any who, as I was saying, most of these voting polls are rigged. And these Lloyd stans and groupies are wasting their valuable time voting the way they do. I'm a fan, sure enough, but I'm also a realistic fan. Lloyd has been raped by his previous record label (Which I refuse to name) but you guys know who I'm alluding to: PERV Fatti (Irv Gotti) that's right! Lloyd has never had a dependable solid promotional team with that dirt napping record label. The same with his current record label: Interscope. His 4th album was pushed back a couple of times and when it was released, many people stated they didn't know he released an album. All his album had to show for it was 26,000 copies on the first week of being release. CATACLYSMIC MASSIVE EPIC FAAAAAAIIIIIL! Even I knew his album wasn't promoted sufficiently. And that it wasn't going to get the recognition it deserves. On the night of the EBT Awards, this man wasn't admitted into the main show. He was only allowed to perform at the pre-show. And when the Patty Labelle tribute commenced, he wasn't allowed to perform on stage with her! Keep in mind, he recorded a duet with her on the remix of "Lay it Down" come on now! Now, people think he's going to be nominated for a Grammy! What the funky smelly gym socks?! SMGDH (Shakes my goddamn head).
These stans and groupies are so consumed with delirium, they don't even know their tongue from their left nostril! I can't wait to see what they're going to do when this man doesn't get nominated for a Grammy next year. Let alone receive a Grammy! LOL Any who, I support Lloyd in everything he does, but he needs to cull out his professional circle. Because the lack of attention he's getting is unjust. And don't get me started with that pseudo ass fan club of his. Cuz' it's been over two years and they STILL haven't scratched the surface. LMAO! I'm only speaking about the people are getting PAID to promote this man while not doing shit for him. That's why he needs to hire me and cut the check! Because I'm one thousand times better at what I do. That is why I mentioned his name a few times in my book, which is available on Amazon. (Click link) And I'm sure it's going to surpass his fourth album sales and catapult his career. Purchase your copy today! IT'S YOUNG GOLDIE BABYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!! :-)
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