Wednesday, March 19, 2008

DAYUM CHARLIE ROSE, YOU BUSTED

I am watching my evening News shows before I either hit the bed or pull another one of my traditional all night writing rampages when I flip the channel to PBS to check out Tavis Smiley and Charlie Rose. I check the schedule and see that Charlie Rose will be talking about the Barak Obama speech giver earlier today. I decide to stay up a little longer. I figure I haven't gotten enough over saturation of the media attention and over abundance of opinions for my blog, Charlie’s opinion would have been the punctuation I needed to complete my view point when, “DAYUM!!!, what the FUQ happen to you!?!?” My boy Charlie Rose got a BEAT DOWN.

He was sitting there talking to Jon Meacham, Editor of Newsweek and Author and Reverend Floyd Flake, Pastor and Former US Congressman on the importance of Barak Obama and how his position in American history plays well on the psyche of voters, Black and White, and all the while the the only thing I kept seeing was how Charlie Boy got YOKED.

I don’t know how Jon and Floyd got threw it, my professionalism would have broken down and in the middle of taking apart Obama’s speech detailing the REAL OF AMERICA, I would have stopped and ask, “Yo, did someone put a hit on you or did you yell Viva la Hillary in a crowd of Obamaholics?

I got through the interview and jumped on the Internet because I know someone had to put his business out there. I mean if we can get ex-Governor John McGreevy and his wife having threesomes with their chauffeur after eating at Friday’s and calling them FRIDAY NIGHT SPECIALS online, I know Charlie Rose’s ass kickin’ would be there. Possibly a YouTube video too. Come to find out, Charlie Boy got busted up trying to save his MacBook Air. Charlie Boy was about to drop his Mac Computer? DAYUM, I can’t believe Charlie Boy went out like that.

Don’t get me wrong, I LOVES ME SOME MAC. Best piece of technology on the PLANET. I wish the rest of the World would catch on to this bit of REALITY. Then again, some people still think the economy is in good standing so GO FIGURE. But a Mac Attack?

According to the SPIN report:

“The host, whom Arrington says is a gadget-hound, was carrying his new MacBook Air, and thus he had a big decision to make: Protect his face, or the beautiful machine? In the split-second before he kissed the pavement, Rose chose to save the computer.

"In doing so, he pretty much hit the pavement face first, unfortunately," producers told Arrington.

Producers say the MacBook Air was undamaged, save for the blood stains.”

You know, my PROPS go out to Charlie Boy, I don’t know if I’d take a dive like that if I was making Charlie Rose money. I mean, with my tight pockets, I’d have to decide, do I get my face busted up and not have enough medical coverage to get healed, or do I loose a portion of my life savings and loose my MAC (cause you know those things cost as much as a FIRST BORN)? You might as well ask me to take Crystal Meth, get naked and go swimming in the Artic Sea High Winter.

I think Charlie Boy is missing a GOLDEN opportunity to get a new MacBook Air for free. His agent ain't doing the right thing. He needs to call me up so I can work it for him. I can see the Ad Campaign now; “I’ll Die For A MacBook Air” Better yet, “You Should Have Seen The Other Computer.” Then I'd have a busted up Dell laptop and Charlie Boy all bandaged up with is nice and perfect Mac. MAN, I am in the wrong business!!

Hey Charlie Rose, get bet.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

NOTE TO POLITICIANS: STOP HAVING SEX

It was only a matter to time. What? Less than 24 Hours before the digging into the background of NEW Governor David Peterson and already we know that he has had Sex. Not only with his wife, Michelle Peterson (the first Black First Lady of the State of New York) but BE DAMNED with another woman.

There are some events were I can be swept up into the wave of excitement and then there are others that are just too good to be true. David Peterson was one of them and for the most part, the People in Harlem gave off that same energy. Black folk were patiently waiting for that other shoe to drop. Call it a deeply rooted suspicion, call it a tie to Black History, maybe a residual effect of a Conspiracy Theory that the downfall of Eliot Spitzer was an inside job from his Republican rivals but regardless the source of the communities foreboding, there was a time period on calm before the storm and in record time it reared its NASTY HEAD, the next day. After David Peterson received a stand ovation from his acceptance speech, a gracious introduction of both sides of the aisle, his call for working together, his focus in fixing the economy of the State of New York, his inclusion of Black, Latino, Asian, White, Men, Women, Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Northern New York, Southern New York, the Wealthy and the Homeless, his message was clear and direct, as a Republic, as a State within the Union, New York’s States challenges can no longer be about ego but solutions because if it is not NOW, it will be NEVER. Peterson’s healing song were the words, "There's trust that needs to be restored." In all relationships, this is the last and binding step for healing and moving forward.

What Peterson forgot to do with let the people know that he is having Sex. Although he alluded to it when he introduced his WIFE and CHILDREN to the State Congress. He let the entire State know this because he had a variety of guests such as three past New York City Mayors (Ed Kotch, David Dinkins and Michael Bloomberg), two State Senators (Hillary Clinton and Charles Schumer) and ex-Governor Pataki. His State representative list was a Who’s Who of delegates and Super delegates. A party that Obama’s teams would loose sends over and yet with all the players at the PARTY, they all were witnesses that at some point, their REPLACEMENT Governor was having Sex in some shape or form.

So now that we know he’s having it in his immediate family structure, it up to the media’s to have a purposeful intention to look for any hookers, prostitutes, girlfriends on the side, past affairs, gay, bisexual, sex toys, porn, nude or semi-nude pictures, Internet memberships, rapes, blowjobs, STD’s, illegitimate children, aborted children, previous husbands, previous wives, past groups sex offers, tattoos, medicines to improve Sex and or breast enlargements for that the PEOPLE should know. You figure, if you can get one New York Governor why not try and get TWO for the price of ONE.

I posted in just the past few days Blog entries on the issues of how SEX takes too much of the forefront in our conscious thought on matters that are not important (American Dirty Girl, Spitzer's Shame Blame and a Woman's Fame). How sex and the United States puritan views for pretending the actions does not exist, how in our actions to make it hidden, SEX actually becomes the very nature of American's obsession, especially in Politics. I am not diminishing the bizarre aspects of what some have done, like playing footsy in Public bathrooms, but the private matters of sex in modern families should not be exploited as a weakness in one's political character here or in the World.

The positive fallout about this story is, most New Yorkers don’t even care. If anything, they are frustrated that it is even an ISSUE so soon after the Peterson’s Inauguration. I mean it was less than 24 hours ago. Looking at written reactions to this hit on the public, I read the following responses from The New York Times, March 18, 2008:

“What is the problem in New York that there should be such a shortage of saints available for public office?” – Posted by Nat

“WHO CARES?” – posted by Jennifer

“Do we really need to know this? I sure don’t. What’s next? A "mia culpa" of impure thoughts? Spitzer didn’t have an affair - he broke the law by buying sex and laundering money to cover up his illegal transaction. An old affair in the ancient history of a long marriage is no one’s business but theirs.” – Posted by Amanda, New York

“Well THAT was a short honeymoon . . . .” – Posted by Bettye Underwood

Then again, the "Affair" happened years prior to David and Michelle Peterson being part of State Government, which like many Married Couples, they decided to work in their resources, a way into a solution, which made the Peterson Family stronger.

“This was a marriage that appeared to be going sour at one point, but I went to counseling and we decided we wanted to make it work. Michelle is well aware of what went on.

We have a marriage like many Americans, maybe even many of you. And the fact is that we work through our marriage and want our children to see that we could make a difficult situation work. We’re very much in love with each other when we got married, we’re very much in love with each other now. I was in love with Michelle even when I knew the marriage was in grave danger. The fact is, for my own actions, I was angry, I was jealous and I exercised poor judgment. One day I realized it and I just decided I would go to counseling and have tried to work through these problems with Michelle and …you are seeing the real relationship, the day when we got married, the one we have now, maybe, maybe even a little bit enhanced by much better communication.”
-David Peterson

Only those addicted to finding scandal or just have issues with Peterson will enjoy this titillation for Political Dirt. Some would even see this release of information as a positive PR event. Much like an Obama, we get all the dirt out in the open first and then exhaust any possible conflicts for the future. I just might agree with this tactic but HONESTLY, I rather not have known at all. That was and still is a private matter for David Peterson and his family.

What is in our best interest? Well, I guess there should be a check list of things a Politician can and can not do or have done before running for any position, call it an honor code if you like. The interesting thing about it is that to do this, would eliminate practically all the World Leaders all over. American’s need for the perfect Politician has never existed. Including American’s first President, George Washington. Sex isn’t an illegal act. Affairs are moral issues which depending on the circumstances (like a Spitzer/Prostitution felony inquiry case), aren’t areas the PEOPLE need to be involved in or need to regulate a person or a person political. I read in a Blog entry where someone asking if the People in Harlem were dancing in the streets knowing that one of its own, David Peterson, was going to be Governor of New York. Well, I can actually answer that question now. NO we weren’t. We are watching from the sidelines for any illegal plays from the aisles, the referees, the rules committees, the coaches, advertisers, cheerleaders and the media covering the GAME. It would appear, the MEDIA has made it's first move.

Monday, March 17, 2008

DROPPING MORE THAN THE BALL

I can't imagine sitting home watching television or starting an evening dinner early, being on the phone getting friends together for a movie, better yet, folding laundry in the bedroom when a Construction Crane crashes threw the roof and brings down your entire building.

GOD has a way of showing me sometimes that as bad as my life can be, someone is far worst. I am sitting on the futon flipping channel on the television, stewing in deep emotions about an on and off situation that I am trying to pull together in a MOST diplomatic way when my "normally scheduled program is interrupted by the News of a Crane breaking and falling on a building in Manhattan. When the helicopter arial view focuses in, I see that the crane didn't just fall, it crushes the building.

The crane, snapped in two, partially lays on one building while the other is crawled over by New York's finest looking for survivors I say to myself, "What survivors? That building is gone." Just on the main level, street level, there was a restaurant Tubar. I can only guess it was a down time for weekend eating. Then again, with the unusually warm weather, maybe just this day, there were a few extra people looking to be wined and dined and ultimately dead and dying.

I know from the reports that prior to the accident, there were several reports or violations and on site reprimands This noted, we know that this construction site was not on the up and up. Now we have to wait if the laborer were all legit and or ordered to compromise safety for expediency.




To often New Yorkers hear how Construction Workers heir non-Union and un-certified laborers, forcing laborers to work under unsafe conditions with recent deaths occurring throughout the city, how Developers are trading safety standards for bonuses and here just might (and I believe it is) another example of the same.

There is always a cursed blessing story in a tragedy like this. There is a woman who lived in this building who left to run to the store, only to return minutes later to see her home gone. What does she collect in blessing? The fact that she missed being crushed to death or the fact that she has her life and now has to survive with loosing a home she has had all her life and neighbors dead and or dying while she stands outside with her tears?

I still can't get over the fact that this whole event was due to a lack of OVERSIGHT. In Developers bid to beat the clock, cut corners and save money, another life if gone. not only are the laborers dying from these bad decisions but now the people around them are paying the price as well.

Sunday, March 16, 2008

WEBS



It started out as a drive of nature
A blue print from a small thought
to design an existence to capture All.
One second,
to one move,
to one point,
from one beginning
to copy that which can’t be understood
yet locked within.
Me.
Deep.
And so I begin.
I take a step and grab at the closest thing.
It was a small achievement.
A non-choice.
A force.
Without question.
Never questioning because I would be part of the design.
This design, the source of who I am.

Carrying body and soul I move to point two.
This was a thought.
A step that would be the design of a decade.
Made real.
Made true.
Made strong.
I think,
do I take to the flower or the weed,
the rose or the dandelion?
The tree,
the thorn?
My love
or my knowledge?
In choice I live in my moment of perfection.
A solo love
A solo wisdom.
A vision of solitude.
So I stretch and I pull
and I journey past my self.
Beyond myself.
Back upon myself
From small steps greater than my conscious mind.
Movement without assumed purpose,
to fashion scenery, magnificence.
GOD’s seed planted within me
My design.
My mind.
At its center.
Reaching out to capture it.
All.

Webs by Shazza Nakim
Copyright © by Peace of Mind Publishings and with permission by Shazza Nakim

Friday, March 14, 2008

THE AMERICAN DIRTY GIRL

A few years back, I don’t recall the talk show, the host had asked Queen Latifah, (aka Dana Owens ) what was her take on the state of female Rappers today. This being in the mid-1990’s when the question was asked, Queen Latifah responded in her deeply wise yet cautious way, “Any person that has to get to where they want to be using the couch or using their body to get there probably doesn’t need to be there at that time. If you are talented, you are talented. If you do things the right way, you will get there when you are meant to be. But it’s all about the work, not short cuts.”

It was obvious the question and the response to the question was in reaction to the two artist who were the “IT” girls of the Rap and Hip Hop scene; Foxy Brown and 'lil Kim but regardless of what side of the argument you were on about the role of Women in Rap, we all know that like any true dichotomy, you will have extremes, especially in entertainment and marketing.

Queen Latifah’s response has stayed on my conscious mind for years because it is such a simple rule that speaks volumes to not only about Fame but to all things in life. We can list the many sensational downfalls of people in entertainment, business, politics, family, education, the rule that "cheaters never win and winner never cheat" can be found in every religious text on the planet, and yet we still struggle with the vices of wealth and prosperity achieved in quick doses with little to no work involved. Even Capitalism has within it subtle components of "short cutting" within its basic premise of Maximum Work with Minimum Pay for laborers thus having nothing being equal about its practice at all. One would even argue that Humanity is inherently lazy which makes lying, cheating and stealing expected and acceptable. I would argue this to be true when you observe Corporations spending Billions of dollars annually in training and upgrading employee supervision, management and monitoring efficiency in order to improve profits. We even have within our annual reporting of America the amount of labor dollars lost just on people stuck in traffic daily on our Nation’s highways. The SPIN: "If we could only have the American labor force balled and chained to the Corporate Plantation, businesses can make more profits, so fix those damn highways since I can't."

With this said, what have I to vent about if "a Prostitute named Kristen or Ashley or whatever transformation she has chosen for herself" wanted to use her Body for commercial gain and success? To be honest, it sparks serious consideration and understanding to supporting the reasons why those in the Middle East do not want America in their country. "Yes I did say this, that there could possibly be a place in the world that would and has a legitimate right to REJECT what America has to offer and or represents. America's over saturation of decadence and perversion to Fame, Success, Money and Power is seen as a cultural virus to those living outside of the United States thus KNOWING that if introduced into their cultures/countries, it would fundamentally destroy the wholeness of their Nation's Spirituality; the respect for family values, and the balance of gender roles for Men and Women. This is deep and maybe a little too Black and White for those Pro-America Patriots but the reality is true, many countries do not have this in their countries and don't WANT it.

Of course there are those Third World countries that exist involved in the trafficking of prostitution; women, men and children and many of these counties also cater to a large number of Western patrons exclusively. Those Westernized Middle Eastern nations have noted (once exposed and accepting to cultural compromises for Western influences) dabble in the western practice of buying the company of prostitutes (although the women would respectfully like to be called Call-Girls; the World respectfully calls them Whores), I find it hard to believe that Men of wealth in places like Saudi Arabia and Dubai will pay over $3 million dollars to have you sit next to them watching camels race each other. Then again, I never had 3 million of anything close to it to make that judgment either but I think I’m right on this matter; the prostitute is taking something off for a minimum of $1 million. The way my finances are these days during this American recession, you can get me to show NECK for $20,000.

So imagine me walking outside to handle my daily business and what do I see, on the cover of the daily RAG, New York Post, I see naked, "a Prostitute Kristen-Ashley or whatever transformation she has chosen for herself" big and bright in front of me. Just as I predicted, this Hooker had been elevated to Rock-Star statues. Sadly, she is, or should I now say WAS a struggling Rock-Star. The sales of her online music is crashing severs. Radio Stations are pumping the lead single like it’s the latest release of a new artist. Some have compared her to a Christina Aguilera with a “deeper” voice (how the Hell that makes any sense with that description I don’t know). Playboy and Hustler as begging for nude spreads offering Millions (like she now needs a reason to take her clothes off again), the talk show exclusives, clothing line offers and you want to know something, the Ho is actually a talented singer. Talented as well as Attractive. THAT IS WHAT PISSES ME OFF THE MOST! This "short cut" in life is rewarded as those that struggle to have Faith, Dedication, Pride and an once of Respect goes to the back of the line to be forgotten. The Drama that comes with the struggle for success is now replaced with the Drama that comes with a stopwatch counting down a BAD GIRL'S minutes in the spotlight. "The candle that burns twice as bright burns half as long." And how BRIGHTLY "a Prostitute Kristen-Ashley or whatever transformation she has chosen for herself" is burning. We just have to live and endure the clock and count down how long we experience THE SHOW.

This "a Prostitute Kristen-Ashley or whatever transformation she has chosen for herself", had all the right things going except PATIENCE and a FAITH that she would be taken care of. I have yet to experience an individual that has made her journey this way come out with any form of longevity. Even Monica Lewinsky tried to capitalize on here 15 minutes of SEX into a fashion line of designer bags. Bottom line, "if the Asians ain’t bootleggin’ yo shyt and Black Folk and buyin’ it and havin’ it in a video or two, not even Entertainment Tonight can save yo ass".

When you are World traveled, it is an American’s responsibility to experience how other people view the United States. True, many want to come to the United States but their reasons are not as self-serving as we’d like to assume. Many desire to come to the United States for work. To make a living that can sustain their families. To have the simple things, which we call The American Dream; a job, a home, and family, and the freedom to maintain their culture without being bothered. That last point is the most PROMISING. Those people outside of the United States see living in another country and not being prosecuted for their cultural practices as being paramount to living in the United States, which is why those that immigrate into the country tend to stay within their collective groups for years before venturing out to sample the diversity that makes up America. I like speaking with Koreans, Chinese, Africans and Middle Easterners about their views on living in the United States and in every case they all say living in America is hard not because of the language or the work or even religion, it is hard due to the over-exposure of the decadence that they are bombarded with everyday and in every fiber of the society. “You can’t escape it, even if you try. It is even in our homes if we don’t protect our families from it”, and with this said, we have to look at ourselves and agree.

Change isn't just Political, it is also a state of MIND, a change in CULTURE, what the effects of our economics, or social behavior, our images of ourselves and the opening up of real dialogue. If we don't, we are just going through the motions and we all end up buying some of "a Prostitute Kristen-Ashley or whatever transformation she has chosen for herself".

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

SPITZER'S SHAME BLAME AND A WOMAN'S FAME

I don’t have a very close relationship with my Mother. I mean I do have a connection with her. We talk and laugh; I am concern for her health and her peace of mind. Did I tell you we laugh? I can make her laugh in a heartbeat. All I need to do is remind her of my childhood escapades and the tears of joy and embarrassment will fall. She loves those moments. My mother loves our conversations about politics. You don’t want to get into a debate on Politics with her. At times I am held at bay and I have made Politics and Community part of my life. My mother’s history and experiences in the 1960’s makes her a wealth of knowledge and I think because of that, we connect on a cerebral level  and yet I feel that my Mother is more of a friend than anything else. If I had to analyze the reasons, it would most likely be due to my independent spirit. Compared to my younger siblings (me being the oldest), I never was a needy person, even for parents. Since 13 years old, I have worked, traveled, explored the World around me and when I would return home, it was understood that I was just being me having my space and privacy. My siblings seemed to need more of my parent’s attention and for me; I never wanted that type of attention.

Recently I spent some quality time with my Mother. I have noticed that there is a significant change in our relationship. It’s more “personal”. From what I am sensing, it’s more of an acceptance of getting old, the journey into the ending of one’s life and making the proper spiritual acknowledgment of it. Then there is me, the oldest, the one child that was there first, born and independent enough to be Son, Friend and Private.

Recently we walked and talked while doing our traditional exchanging of life stories when my Mother decided to tell me something very private. A family secret that she felt I was old enough to handle and accept. The news was unsettling and yet I wished that I was told the story years earlier but in my Mother’s collective wisdom, she may have been correct. Only GOD knows if she was right but in the event of that moment, my Mother asked, “Do you now understand?” I did and I assured her that I did but only on the surface. Deep down I struggled with this newfound information about my family and then I thought about how it wasn’t so much the information but the denial of that information for so long.

Several days later I see New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer standing before the press apologizing for his indiscretions with a prostitute. Now it wasn’t that he was standing before me looking POLITICALLY DUMB nor was it major news since in the past 2 years SEX SCANDALS were common place so one more politician getting his SEX on was old News. Also, when the breaking News prior was how the American Water system is contaminated with pharmaceutical drugs and hours later we are talking about BLOW JOBS, I am initially suspect about the timing, especially since WATER is Humanity's Lifeline. Then I heard asked from a woman Reporter that dreded question, “Why would Eliot Spitzer’s wife stay with him after what he’s done to her?”

I then gave long pause to her question of Mrs. Spitzer’s commitment to her husband and vows. I also recall that very same question asked of NJ’s Gov. McGreevey, NBA Player Kobe Bryant, President Bill Clinton, Comedian and Educator Bill Cosby and Sen. Larry “Wide Stance” Craig wives. I look back at all the comments and conversations surrounding the women of these men and what stood out the most were the comments from other Women. I found that Women are harder on other Women than Men and overall the uber ruthlessness sex of a society to condemn a relationship of sexual impropriety, a force often moved by the Women of society; especial if that relationship is tied to Money, Power and Influence.

As I flip the channel looking for follow up stories on the chemical poisoning of America’s drinking water, I get stories of how sad it is for the wife and children to go through THIS. The “THIS”, meaning a husband that is having SEX outside of the marriage. A common refrain, CHEATING, within relationships, is an act documented around the World and throughout History. The AFFAIR, just in American society alone, is a multi-billion dollar industry for entertainment's movie, television, talk shows, print media and song. It is the type of drama that jump starts our passions and pulsates the blood into overdrive. I am counting the days before I see advertised on a "girlfriend" couch session with Oprah Winfrey or a Barbra Walters special, both women jockeying on who can pull down the most tears for that exclusive with Silder Spitzer as she pushes her book on how her marriage was a LIE (because America really wants to know how another Woman was victimized by a Man of Power).

The media’s push to get an explosive reaction out of WOMEN, the on record voices of "The Sisterhood of Scorned Womens Club" gathering in Space and Cyber-space, the mounting of the Feminist Movement gathering their forces to trumpet their Independence and Free Will from Men and in my Man's Chair (the beat up old reclining chair) and you have me sitting quietly asking one question, “Isn’t this all a private moment between the Spitzer’s?”

I can speak personally on the subject of a family scorned. I am a survivor of divorce. As much as I hate saying that, it’s the best and only way to state that as a child, my parents separated and went their separate ways, me going with my Mother. Why I dislike saying that I am a survivor is that I never saw myself as a VICTIM.  To say that would mean I was in a state of mind of being helpless; which I wasn’t. I knew then as I know now, I had nothing to do with my parents separation. Sometimes a split can be a good thing, based upon circumstances and yet the seed left in my mind to contemplate is WHAT IF? What if things were different and my parents had stayed together? Would I have been the same person or different? Would my current relations or past relations had been different? As personalities are defined, we are a totality of our past experiences and physical makeup. We can never say we have no Past Experiences; it’s the unhealthy tweaking of those experiences that soft minds, not mature enough to handle those real events of their past, that can play havoc on people unless there is a structured lifestyle to balance it out. Since I had balance, I never felt held back from becoming a "normal", sane and productive individual.

I look at Silder Spitzer and I don’t even care how the media portrayed her as the wounded victim, how “drained” of life and how she looked (which I think is a shallow and weak politically correct way of stating that she is old and beat down looking), shocked and weak or how mentally she has live an illusion of self-determination, how fate has put her in this position, the sadness of being part of the Political Cheaters Club. No, I look at her and say to myself, "How do you address the breakdown in your family?"

It's obvious that the real PROBLEM in Silder Spitzer’s family isn’t the cheating or the prostitutes, but the nature of the MAN, her husband, Eliot Spitzer. It is apparent that his come uppings in Political Power is a HIGH for him, which required a prize for Conquest. The conquest or the quenching of that subjugation of his Power High which for Men is  SEX. Call it an "addiction", call it a "warrior's" ideology, call it just being a MAN, society has shown throughout history, religion, psychology, a ring full of gladiators or the innate nature of mankind, that this is how FIGHTERS are hardwired. Anyone knowing Eliot Spitzer, his background, his many conquests and accomplishments, a man who was on a FAST TRACK to the United States Presidency (with credentials far better than both Hillary Clinton and Barak Obama) is/was a Man of Power. Being the wife of a Man of Power, any woman should know that with Great Power, come Great Ambition and Great Ambition comes Greater Conquests … this including Women (or Boys for those that swing that way). It is no strange term to hear that someone was "Drunk with Power", will rise up too quickly, stubble and fall to soon have their significant other come with aid as the designated drive to bring them home. As the wife, it is her duty to be an enabler of that intoxicated behavior or risk loosing the benefits that come with Power. This is what the average Woman fail to understand and also is equally as hard for them to understand WHY THEY STAY.

My conversation with my Mother that day of sharing family secrets made this point REAL for me. Some people cannot sell their Soul for that type of POWER, to excuse Personal Responsibility and looking forward to teaching lessons of Accountability to her children. Some women can. Silder Spitzer in hindsight knew this although she was always uncomfortable with it. SHE KNEW this could happen. The question is what did she do to PREPARE and what will they do NOW?

It is often known that in matters of infidelity; Women are more forgiving than Men. This is due to how each view SEX in relation to the infidelity and the historical role of the woman in society. Women attach more ownership to emotion and Sex than Men so when an issue of cheating occurs, the most frequent question asked from a woman is, “Did you love her?” It is within the answer that a Women will build the determining “IF” the relationship can be salvaged. This is the real News and the area where most Women are interested in. Those MILIONS of women whom have been scorned by CHEATING Men have their scorecards ready. Some are hoping Silder can get through this affair for the family; others want her to get half. No matter how the Spitzer family resolves this highly publicized issue, the person who will get the most criticism will be the WIFE. Society will split their viewpoint of her being straight down the middle. She will forever be a DUMB VICTIM for staying and honoring her marriage vows by doing the following:

1. Accessing the Damage
2. Communicate (deviling deeper into what was said and not said)
3. Determine what’s missing in the Marriage and making changes (therapy)
4. The Children and what is best for them using the first three steps
4. Forgiveness (in order to move forward)
5. Trust

If Silder decides to Leave then she will be CHAMPIONED into the SHE WOMAN’S HATE MENS CLUB and go on to sell books, do lectures, talk shows, commentary for the next Politician’s Wife who is cheated on, a Victims Tour and just maybe she will RE-INVENT herself and become an individual separate from the embarrassment of Politics and yet she will still maintain the stigmata of a Woman who married for Power and lost it. Damned if you do Damned if you don’t. And to think that this is all about SEX. I know others will argue it’s about integrity, political harmony, the IRS, hypocrisy or maybe a little revenge but take away all the frosting on the issue and it is still about SEX. Politicians aren’t supposed to have SEX … not even with their WIVES. If this is the case Silder Spitzer’s reputation was doomed from the moment she married. Some families can handle this in private, as part of a family secret, some are cursed to live it in the public eye, I can honestly say for me, some family secrets, in a perfect World, can wait until you are ready.

By the way, I am still looking for the NEWS on the contamination of AMERICA’S DRINKING WATER. I haven’t forgotten.

Monday, March 10, 2008

RUSH LIMBAUGH HAD NO POWER IN TEXAS

I think people have given Rush Limbaugh too much credit. Based upon Exit Polls and media coverage of the people in the rural areas of Texas, neither Rush nor his Talk Radio Show was a major or even deciding factor of the election result. Contrary to the “Volunteer”, Robert Swann , whom worked for the Hillary Clinton Texas Campaign, there is this deep belief that a small percentage of Republican banded together, to throw the State’s election as a direct protest against John McCain, the Republican front-runner then and now Presidential Nominee. The truth is the matter us what made the difference in Texas was the last Debate between Sen. Barak Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton, the small but significant scandal with Obama and the Revko case which took center stage in Chicago that same week (where the media's perception of Obama was that of his avoiding answering questions of his direct connection to the case) and the fact that Texas is a Pro-War, Military and Veteran State which worked in Clinton's favor especially since she has a Liberal-Conservative viewpoint to War, Clinton’s 3 AM Political Ad and lastly, Obama’s complacency in campaigning in Texas. This meaning that although Texans like all things BIG, when it come to their politics, a “flesh to palm” and door-to-door works better that the star, stage and stadium approach. The populations of older voters do not turn on and turn out to the types of campaigning that Young Voters gravitate to.

Contrary to all assumptions, the issue with Race, Religion and Ads played very little into the whole voting issue since the deciding factor for Hillary's victory was that Obama did not cut ENOUGH into the Latino Vote. He did get a fair number of the Latin Youth vote but he was an estimated 3200 votes shy of their projections. With 83% of the Black vote, Obama needed 40% of the Latin Vote to even command a 50 plus 1% overall. Rush Limbaugh could not affect that many people (within the Democratic party) even on his BEST DAY. To consider that Ultra-Conservatives would vote for Hillary Clinton as a political stratagem to give Obama “FALSE HOPE” is almost laughable, more so it ranks up there with the Best of … The Texan Conspiracy Theories. There is no evidence and to be honest, no one is even researching all that hard to find out.

Another thing, the Religious Vote (Catholics) came out strong. Catholics voted more for Clinton in Texas than all her other State victories. For Obama, his projections were even with Clinton prior to Tuesday. Obama hit all his Urban Areas, the Middle-class and Wealthy, College age and Black Americans but his exception were those OLDER LATIN VOTER, which consistently keep missing. His camp made the same MAJOR MISTAKE in Ohio as well. It was in Obama’s campaign complacency and lack of presence in those Southern Texan districts, the people saw his lack of interest and in that black hole, Hillary’s campaign took charge. Those people watch TELAMUNDO; they saw a significant amount of that Clinton Ad. Like it or not, THE AD WORKED on the right people.

There was also this point as well, TEXAS did not have a record turn out in "Registered" Republican votes which would kind of make the Rush Limbaugh argument suspect. There was no major turnout of Republicans or Independents voting for Hillary Clinton. If anything, those borderline Independents and Republican Independents went Obama but in small numbers.

Looking at the MATH, it was going to be a tie from the start, especially since Texas began it’s voting early. It is always recognized that when a large number of votes are recorded early, there is a tendency for those voting late to stay home. We see this in National voting when the WEST COAST watched how the EAST COAST is voting which in some cases effect the whole election.

Lastly, THIS IS POLITICS not American Idol or Big Brother House. You have to be just as hard on the Media. Obama is the FRONT-RUNNER and every single stumble he makes (and OBAMA did stumble by not running a STRONG campaign in Texas among other things) you can't blame the "CLINTONS" nor can you point to Rush Limbaugh as a "serious" contributing factor. That is the easy and most Obvious thing to do when one does not understand the dynamics of running a campaign. My Political insight into campaigning is this for Obama, he needs to aggressively reach out to OLDER AMERICANS and to the Latinos and MILITARY Veterans that he keeps ignoring. This is what each group talk about, the idea that OBAMA isn't speaking to them and only the BLACKS and the Young Folks. Those groups are the SWING votes that are either voting for Clinton or John McCain. He also needs to make an appeal to Catholic Voters whom bring in Big Numbers to Clinton.

Instead of Preaching he has GOOD or BETTER Judgment, Obama needs to start talking about Current International Issues in detail and what He Will Do once he becomes President. Neither Clinton nor Obama has ENOUGH individual Foreign Policy experience BUT if you start talking about Foreign Policy in terms of THE PEOPLE , America will know that Obama at least know the NAMES of the major players. Obama needs to have more of his Foreign Policy Advisers come forward and begin schooling him in speaking PUBLICLY about World Events. That is why Coni Rice was brought on board for George Bush in his race for President and partly how he won. Same thing must happen with Obama, those on the fence do not feel he knows the World enough to speak to it. That is WHY and HOW he lost Texas, Ohio and RI, NOT because Clinton is Racist or a Fear Monger; all she did was play to Obama's weaknesses and exploited his campaign's complacency.

As much as I dislike Rush Limbaugh, I will always be convinced that people gave him too much credit, especially with his assumed affluence with Texan politics. This is a Man identified by his own Republican party as a "Man who does not debate in Reality", a shotgun Political Pundit which every mainstream Republican distances themselves from. Looking at the numbers after the fact, you will see, especially when you can go to the CNN exit poll for all the statistics, that what was proposed by Rush was and is incorrect.

DRINKING SECOND HAND DRUGS

Two weeks ago I was talking about Honey Bees. A week before that I was avoiding getting into yet ANOTHER Beef Recall debate in the United States. Last year I asked people in my community where the CHICKEN from KFC, Church’s Chicken, Wendy’s, McDonalds and Popeye’s came from and if it was part of the poultry that missed the chicken viral check that affected millions of Americans? As my part of informing people that you are what you eat, I stressed the importance of drinking water to flush our bodies daily. Knowing that tap water was suspect and bottle water that much more, I am not too surprised that AMERICAN’S WATER is polluted. What I wasn’t ready for is the over polluting of bio-chemical and pharmaceuticals and how no one was pro-active enough or even cared to TEST for it.

Knowing that when we pass on, our bodies go back to the EARTH, as it should, I know that recently reported in National Geographic, our bodies hold hundreds of toxins collected in our everyday lives. From the dozens of chemicals in body soap, the chemicals in our clothing, the cooking pans that we use, the plastics and coloring holding our food fresh, the artificial and bio-generated ingredients within our food, the exhausts from cars, buses, planes, and the list can go on. With the announcement of pharmaceuticals in our drinking water; tap and bottled, the theme, “THE POISONING AMERICA” even more real.

Just in April of 2006 we had a public report of Benzene in Soft Drinks and how the EPA’s response was simply that the amounts within were acceptable. According to the properties of Benzene and its long-term affects, we find that this chemical in soft drinks is “an organic chemical compound that is a colorless and flammable liquid. The US Department of Health and Human Services classifies benzene as a human carcinogen. Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene in the air can cause leukemia. It can also damage the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also cause excessive bleeding and depress the immune system.”

Also, the EPA’s public response was the following:

Benzene in our drinking water should not exceed 5 parts per billion.

If the levels of benzene exceed 5 ppb, the applicable water company has to notify the public via newspapers, radio, TV and other means. Additional actions, such as providing alternative drinking water supplies, may be required to prevent serious risks to public health.

To Add:

In 1990, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) learned that certain soft drinks marketed to children contain two ingredients that can mix in the soda to form the toxic carcinogen benzene. The Agency didn't tell the public, but instead merely asked companies to voluntarily change their formulas to eliminate the problem.

So this much we know so far. Fast-forward to today and the Breaking News, more chemicals in the water system to add with the Benzene we just got kicked in the head with. These new additives in our tap water are pharmaceutical residue from medicines and medicine cabinets with body aches, infections, anti-biotics, mood stabilizers, seizures, high blood pressure; hormones for menopause; the active ingredient in a popular sedative, depression and caffeine flowing freely. The problem is, it isn’t medical facilities and chemical processing plants doing the dumping, it would seem we are dropping the muck into the sewage systems that we purge from our systems. The most common drugs we are excreting are:

  1. Caffeine - considered the most commonly used psychoactive drug in the world
  2. Carbamazepine - used to treat seizures and nerve pain such as trigeminal neuralgia
  3. Codeine - relief of moderate pain, cough suppression, sedation, respiratory depression
  4. Cotinine - metabolite (byproduct) of nicotine
  5. Dehydronifedipine – residual byproducts and their metabolites in the body found in (such as plasma, serum or urine)
  6. Diphenhydramine - an antihistamine, relieves red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, and the common cold
  7. Sulfathiazole - used to be a common oral and topical antimicrobial also as an effective and safe treatment for many bacterial, fungal and protozoan infestations in the aquarium
  8. Amoxicilin - used to treat infections caused by bacteria, ear infections, bladder infections
  9. Azithromycin - used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis; pneumonia; sexually transmitted diseases (STD)
  10. Diclofenac - used for the treatment of inflammation and pain caused by arthritis
  11. Prednisone - used to treat allergic disorders, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis and arthritis
  12. Tetracycline - used for infections including respiratory tract infections due to Hemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
  13. Acetaminophen – Tylenol; a drug used to relieve pain and reduce fever.
  14. Meprobamate - used in the treatment of anxiety
  15. Sulfamethoxazole - used for the treatment of malaria, conjunctivitis, toxoplasmosis and urinary tract infections
  16. Phenytoin - an anticonvulsant drug which can be useful in the treatment of epilepsy
  17. Ibuprofen - (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Medipren) a drug used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation
  18. Estradiol - a drug prescribed for the treatment of symptoms associated with menopause
  19. Monensin - The Food and Drug Administration approved drug for increased milk production in dairy cows
  20. Naproxen - (Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox, Naprelan) a drug used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation

People, these are the most common of the drugs found across America. In the State of Pennsylvania, the total count, SO FAR, is 56 different drugs within drinking water and household taps. To build upon this reality, the same water that we think we avoid because of this, is found in our store bought BOTTLED WATER. Yes Ladies and Gentlemen, you can’t avoid drinking SECOND HAND DRUGS even if you purchase it at the local supermarket. So what do you do?

This is the SPIN:

As in other cities, human health risks from trace pharmaceuticals are uncertain, since concentrations in New York source waters are way below medical doses and undergo dilution as they mix with fresh water en route to the city

Now that might sound like the politically correct thing to say BUT didn’t Heath Ledger just die from a combination of drug? I mean the interaction of drugs in his system did contribute to his Overdose/Death. So what would a long drown out, low-level build of these drugs do to our body functions in combination? Low levels of cyanide or lead will still kill just as a full does would; its all a principle of time.

There are too many questions to ask and far too many people to point to for answers and blame. This goes far beyond the actions of demanding CLEANER WATER STANDARD. It goes beyond politics and accountability. This goes beyond becoming more knowledgeable and conscious of what we put in out bodies. Although you can put a spiritual SPIN on this by infusing it into a Newer, more modern 10 Commandments for a People, the truth and causality still isn't clear as to where the problem of over-abundance of medical toxins lies. The truth is, these contaminates are the residuals of a Drug Addicted Nation, a sickly nation tied to those medicines manufactured in labs, the FDA and the lack of SERIOUS oversight from the EPA. We can also blame out perpetual ignorance to exercise our Common Sense on things that matter about our health and environment.

Our dependency on the Government (ERA and FDA) dictating to a sleeping country what is the “required minimum” of requirements and what is safe thus quelling our nervousness about that we put into our bodies or should know. How can people who work out, eat right, get plenty of sleep and declare they are healthy when daily he or she is consuming 56 or more residual drugs over the years? Add that to whatever toxins already within the air and the skin’s contact with the physical world and you still wonder why or how a person can get cancers or unique ailments that would normally be reserved for an elderly person or someone living in a Third World Country?

So let me leave you with this bit of information, since we know that America’s Tap Water is tainted as much as our Bottled Water that comes from many of our Tap Water Sources, there are other water sources that can be looked upon as alternatives. Just to also drop KNOWLEDGE, some of these sources can be just as tainted, if they are close areas near civilization, dumping, high altitude pollutions, and under group seepage. So before you decide to jump ship and swear off water for LIFE, you need to know what other water sources are out there for an informed decision and better health.

Types of waters

Bottled water is regulated as a food product by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Bottled water companies must adhere to the FDA's Quality Standards, Standards of Identity (Labeling Regulations) and Good Manufacturing Practices and requires beverage companies to label their waters to define where the water came from and if it's been purified or carbonated. Bottled water can be classified with terms such as “purified,” “spring,” “sterile” and “artesian” (or “artesian well” water). All bottled water sold in the United States (whether imported or domestic) must meet all of the same regulations. Here are the classifications:


Artesian water

Artesian well, Bottled water from a well that taps a confined aquifer (a water-bearing underground layer of rock or sand) in which the water level stands at some height above the top of the aquifer.

Drinking water

Drinking water is another name for bottled water. Accordingly, drinking water is water that is sold for human consumption in sanitary containers and contains no added sweeteners or chemical additives (other than flavors, extracts or essences). It must be calorie-free and sugar-free. Flavors, extracts or essences (such as lemon-lime) may be added to drinking water, but they must comprise less than one-percent-by-weight of the final product or the product will be considered a soft drink. Drinking water may be sodium-free or contain very low amounts of sodium.

Purified water

Water that has been produced by distillation, de-ionization, reverse osmosis or other suitable processes and that meets the definition of purified water in the United States Pharmacopoeia (pharmacological code) may be labeled as purified bottled water. Other suitable product names for bottled water treated by one of the above processes may include "distilled water" if it is produced by distillation, "de-ionized water" if the water is produced by de-ionization, or "reverse osmosis water" if the process used is reverse osmosis. Alternatively "_____________ drinking water" can be used with the blank being filled in with one of the terms defined in this paragraph (e.g. "purified drinking water" or "distilled drinking water"). These waters are taken primarily from metropolitan water sources, run through mammoth commercial filters, and purified with chlorine, detritus, and other items inappropriate for drinking water. You may have seen vending machines outside of your supermarket that allows you to fill your own bottle for 25 or 50 cents; this is the water and process that is used and is from metropolitan sources or even the tap adjacent to the machine’s location. They are excellent to cook with when tap water quality is an issue.

Mineral water

Waters containing not less than 250 parts per million total dissolved solids may be labeled as mineral water. Mineral water is distinguished from other types of bottled water by its constant level and relative proportions of mineral and trace elements at the point of emergence from the source. No minerals can be added.

The naturally occurring minerals and trace elements in mineral waters are considered by many to be excellent for health and digestion. Typically, these include iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, silica, chromium, lithium, and copper. While these are healthful, the value of mineral waters versus spring waters is still debated. Available from both domestic and international sources, the prices vary tremendously based on packaging and location.

Spring water

These are waters derived from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface of the earth. Spring water must be collected only at the spring or through a borehole tapping the underground formation finding the spring. Spring water collected with the use of an external force (in other words, a pump) must be from the same underground stratum as the spring and must have all the physical properties, before treatment, and be of the same composition and quality as the water that flows naturally to the surface of the earth. Available from both domestic and international sources, spring waters are ideal for everyday drinking as well as to make coffee, tea, or foods in which the quality of the water is a critical ingredient. Prices vary considerably based both on geographic location and packaging.

Sparkling water

Water, which after treatment and possible replacement with carbon dioxide, contains the same amount of carbon dioxide that it had at emergence from the source. (An important note: soda water, seltzer water and tonic water are not considered bottled waters. They are regulated separately, may contain sugar and calories, and by law, are considered soft drinks.)

Carbonated water

The bubbles in these waters can help ease digestion, and are available from both domestic and international sources. Some have slight flavorings added such as citrus, but taste even better plain or with a slice of fresh lime or lemon. If burping is an issue, avoid them, but otherwise, they are excellent to drink after meals as a digestive. Some are heavy in sodium, so those with hypertension or sodium restrictions should drink them only occasionally.

Flavored waters

These may be compared to soda pop, but infinitely lighter in flavor and absolutely lighter in sugars and sweeteners. They give just a hint of flavors like citrus or berries, have either no or modest amounts of sweeteners from high fructose corn syrup to sugars or honey. They are likely not to be completely calorie-free, but are modest in carbohydrates and calories when consumed sparingly.

Waters with healthful additives These waters contain everything from additional minerals, vitamins, and other ingredients that make these more a health drink than “just water.” If this is the only way to get your spouse to drink water, great; otherwise, it’s a very expensive way to get your H2O; and in some cases the packaging and the labeling can be misleading. Remember that most Americans do not have vitamin deficiencies and buying waters to add vitamins to your diet might be little more than a waste of money.

Distilled water

These waters are mineral-free, so they’ re perfect for curling irons, clothes irons and steamers, humidifiers, and any appliance that requires water. By using distilled waters, you can avoid the mineral muck that often clogs up appliances. Some people view distilled waters as good to drink because it is so pure, but naturally occurring minerals in waters are actually good for you.

Tap water

Many municipal water supplies, such as New York City, boast water that is as tasty and pure as the most expensive bottled varieties. By law, municipal water supplies must supply its customers a chemical analysis of their water composition. If you haven’t received yours, contact your local water supply. (Many now post their analysis on their Web sites.)

Water filters

Consumers can filter their municipal water by attaching a commercial filter to the tap, using a pitcher with a carbon filter in it, or buying refrigerators with built-in filters that make both filtered ice and filtered water. These are very good, but be sure to change the filters as recommended.

I WANT TO BECOME THE COLOR BLUE



I wanted to be a Blues Singer.
Telling my story of heart loss and pains deep.
Belting out notes so fine
-- touching and tickling ivories with smooth fingers.
Hollowing out the human condition with a voice that would make eyes weep.
Becoming the jazziest of the Jazz,
the bluest of the Blue.

I once saw Billy Holiday in my mind's eye.
I called her name in the pitch of night.
Later I found out that she died, and I cried.
I held it within my soul,
the absolutlessness of light,
fueling my Blues so I could reach that one song.


I did saw Sarah Vaughn riding before me,
horse and carriage and all.
And as she passed, I consumed her into my color.
I leaned ever so slight,
tilted my head and began singing my call.
That day
-- my Blues sored to a new splendor.
And I knew I would sing a Blue grander than any sky or sea.

So elegant a name Fitzgerald, my woman of class.
Timeless in reality, commanding in simplicity.
Sissin' and sassin' beatin' and a brassin'
this ever young lass
charmed the world and filled hearts to the Bluest of capacity.
If my Blues could ever have fun, Ella would teach me.
Today, like my Lady Day,
I sing all of my praise
inspiring everyone to feel what it is to feel.
Blessing the child.
Waiting for her penniless man for days,
I can't help but want to help her color of pain that is real.
To become that ultimate color;
Blue.

I want that color.
Blue.


I Want to Become the Color Blue by Shazza Nakim
Copyright © by Peace of Mind Publishings and with permission by Shazza Nakim

Sunday, March 2, 2008

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY




Fair Wages!
Better Treatment!
Do We Get It?
No!


I am sick and tired of being sick and tired!
Working slave hours
in a slave job.
Striving to survive!

Do Not Put that Clothing on your Back!
Put America back on Track!
We're Not Lazy We'll Walk All Night!
We'll Walk Some More to Keep the Fight !

Cotton cutting, polyester pressing.
Chicken feather plucking,
catfish stripping.
Toilet paper rolling and migrant farming.

Hell No We Won't Go!
Heaven Knows Our Might Will Show!
Pride in the North, Pride in the South!
Minimum Wage Can't Feed My Mouth!


New York law, Delta Delight and Scottie to wipe my behind.
5¢, 10¢, 15¢, 25¢ raises
only good for one extra bus ride to work or
day old bread at least.

Our Hungry Kids are Calling!
That Why We are Stalling!
Don't Bust the Line!
Our Wages Here are the Crime!

Picket Captain
Ten Hut!!!!!
Shop Steward
Present!!!!!

Welfare Rat,
Rat You Out!
WIC and Food Stamps,
Ain't No Clout!

Out of the cotton fields
and into the fire.
Locked, stocked, and barreled,
Chain ganged and stuck in labor.

When Do We Want It?
We Want It Now!
How Do We Want It?
Right!

Land of Opportunity by Shazza Nakim
Copyright © by Peace of Mind Publishings and with permission by Shazza Nakim