Saturday, February 21, 2009

Sometimes Words are Hard to Say

I'm discovering that as I get older, I have to use the word NO more frequently. Have you discovered that? Is it an age thing, or is it simply a phase that I'm going through - I haven't decided yet.

Well, today is a new day, and moving forward, if there is something that you simply do not want to do, just say NO. And mean it!...

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Our Authors Study Club Black History Tour 2009

It was pouring down raining this morning when Shirley Smith and I got up and got ready for the Annual Black Historical Tour of Los Angeles.
We had to be at Consolidated Realty at 7:30am, to get aboard Dr. Genevieve Shepherd's bus! If one can get the opportunity to take the tour - which occurs every year on the first Saturday in February - count yourself very fortunate! http://www.lausd.k12.ca.us/Tom_Bradley_EL/DrShepbio.html
Today we saw several groups perform - the youth of today sang so eloquently. Professor Toni had several people recite different quotes from historical figures(Biddy Mason, Princess Calafia, etc.) and it was lovely!
There were a few bumps in the road today, but we overcame them and won't even mention them...
We also took a trip to the second oldest Fire Station -
Fire Engine Co. # 30, located at 14th and Central. It is now a Fire Station Museum.


Captain Brent Burton gave an eloquent lecture w/ slides dating back to the 1850's regarding Men & Women of Color Fire Fighters. http://www.lacostentorians.org/.
You owe it to yourselves to stop by the Fire Station. It's open to the public!


Dr. Shepherd, I'd like to thank you, once again, for all of the love that you continue to shower upon your people. You are truly a remarkable woman, and I say hats off to you lady!

Sincerely,
Carla

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

LA Black Historical Tour 2009 - This Saturday

It's already February and it is absolutely beautiful here in Southern California. Today it was 75 (Fahrenheit).
This is the weekend that Dr. Shepard conducts her Annual Black History Tour.
Dr. Shepard is kind enough to reach out to the Community and take 6 bus loads of people from all walks of life - starting from 3725 Don Felipe Dr., Los Angeles, CA - Consolidated Realty - to some of the most interesting places throughout Southern California. If you get a chance, get up early, Google the location and meet me there!http://beverlyhillsbusinessexcellence.blogspot.com/2008/02/black-history-tour-of-los-angeles-feb-2.html

Peace & Blessings,
C

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Midway - Written by Naomi Long Madgett in 1958

This is a poem that my Grand Mother would ask me to recite to her, when I was a teen-ager. It was very inspiring to her.

I've come this far to freedom and I won't turn back
I'm climbing to the highway from my old dirt track
I'm coming and I'm going
And I'm stretching and I'm growing
And I'll reap what I've been sowing or my skin's not black
I've prayed and slaved and waited and I've sung my song

You've bled me and you've starved me but I've still grown strong
You've lashed me and you've treed me
And you've everything but freed me
But in time you'll know you need me and it won't be long.
I've seen the daylight breaking high above the bough

I've found my destination and I've made my vow;
so whether you abhor me
Or deride me or ignore me
Mighty mountains loom before me and I won't stop now.

I miss you Sweety.
Carla