BY Gloria Dulan-Wilson
BELOW IS THE TEXT OF THE MESSAGE I, AND PROBABLY MANY OF YOU, RECEIVED FROM GOVERNOR DAVID PATERSON IN REFERENCE TO THE TAX ON SUGAR SWEETENED BEVERAGES. I URGE YOU TO MAKE YOUR OWN FEELINGS (PRO or CON) KNOWN AS WELL.
Gloria Dulan-Wilson ✆
to gloria, Governor
show details 12:13 PM (3 minutes ago)
Dear Governor Paterson:
If this is a tax to mitigate the ill effects of obesity, which is highly doubtful; I would also like to strongly suggest that you impose immediately a comprehensive tax on greed and ill gotten gains levied at Wall Street and publicly traded investment businesses and banks that have wrecked our economy. Let's call it the "modified tax on unscrupulous, ignorant, and incompetent business acts that adversely affect the population and citizens of New York Act." The tax can be between 2% to 10% (10% for the most egregious).
And on the basis of that tax, for every ill-gotten dollar (and I don't need to define that, I think DC, the President and the other analysts have already done so), that we get 10% back, since New York was faced with the double whammy of so many people being thrown out of jobs and homes as the result of our very own key industries ripping us off right under our very noses.
(This based on the propaganda that New York's economy is based on FIRE: FINANCE, INSURANCE, AND REAL ESTATE) Somewhere in there the concept of manufacturing, research, and creativity has been relegated to other borders - more's the pity - because we can certainly use them now).
By implementing the "modified greed and unscrupulous, ignorant and incompetent business acts tax," we will gain an effective tool to combat greed, unemployment, and people suffering at the hands of arrogant, insensitive, acerbic business figures, who have taken a hold of our city and state's economy and trashed it. This plan will restore the citizen's confidence in you as well as in the legislators for the State of New York. It will also make up for the fact that many who have been thrust into unemployment, may be able to look to the state for some extended relieve while they try to put the shamble of their lives back together.
This one cent per ounce excise tax on beverages is still punishing the victims. Let's get punish the perpetrators for a change!! They seem to be adept at ducking and dodging their responsibility; getting around the consequences, and pointing fingers of blame in other directions. As great as we are, New York cannot continue to carry the burden of thieves who have literally made off with our livelihoods, and while we continue to struggle to put our lives back together, they sit in their homes (usually in Connecticut, or out on Long Island) counting their bonuses and making "just in case everything comes back" deals behind our backs.
Rather than the tax on sugary soft drinks, let's tax on those dollars that they are taking from our pockets. Additionally, let's stop warehousing homes and apartments, being held off the market by the real estate industry while so many families who have either lost their homes, or could not afford to be gouged at the higher price points, are living shelters, or doubling up with friends and families.
Pass the Project Restore program Assemblymember Hakeem Jeffries as been working on. While you're at it, restore some of the programs and protections Pataki destroyed during his tenure as Governor, that left us pretty much unprotected and powerless.
Putting a tax on sugary soft drinks only takes more money from the pockets of more families that can't afford to pay it. Like most other smart New Yorkers, they'll just go to Jersey and buy in bulk and avoid it all together. It would be better served to stop nickel and dime-ing us to death and deal with some of the real intrinsic issues that really hit us where we live.
Reinstate Kermit Eady and the Black United Fund of New York, the charitable organization that made it possible for African American New Yorkers to pool their resources and underwrite some of the programs that may not have been in the State's budget, but were nevertheless necessary. It was destroyed by unfounded allegations leveled at them by Elliott Spitzer during the time he was aspiring to run for governor. The charges were unfounded. However, not only has Mr. Eady never been "made whole", but the people who benefited from the program were seriously damaged, losing homes, jobs, and so much more. In much the same way you have pardoned individuals who are serving or have served sentences (whether deserved or undeserved), Mr. Eady deserves pardon and reinstatement of his good name, organization and property. (Mind you - this is not an aside, nor is it off the subject, but goes to the heart of how we've lost the moral compass in New York of putting people first, things second.)
New York is not just a state for brainiacs; it is also a state of ingenuity and creativity. We have become prey to those outside our borders who now have the wherewithal to fabricate, design and develop new and innovative concepts, tools, materials. To that end, bring back some of those manufacturing concerns to our waterfronts -- shipping and manufacturing -- which then takes us off of soley relying on the so-called "smartest men in the room".
Rather than acting as though working with your hands is somehow lower class, you need to return vocational training to the schools so our youth can have some competitive skills, without having to import labor from other borders, while the people here go begging or on welfare, or worse yet, end up in the streets.
Make it mandatory for all students from the 5th grade on to have comprehensive training in financial literacy, including Wall Street (in all schools and make Wall Street underwrite the program). Make it possible for an adult education class so those of us who missed it during our formative years can also learn what it is that the "biggest industry" in New York is really about.
Ever wonder why most of the guys on Wall Street come from places other than New York? Why is it that the biggest industry in NY has the lowest placement from our own hallowed halls of education? We are not providing our own youth with the opportunities people from other countries receive.
In reference to education and the concern about limits on Charter Schools vs. Public Education: Neither avenues are that impressive. It is clear that more dollars are being thrown in the path of Charter Schools to the detriment of Public Schools by private concerns. Most feel there is an ulterior motive, which may or may not be the case. For the most part, there has to be some over all standards or criteria for quality education.
There has been a tendency to make it an either or situation. Perhaps it needs to be both, with the overarching criteria being set in place by both parents and teachers; and the resulting Charter Schools required to specialize in specific fields; while the Public schools also being required to improve, and being given the additional funds to do so. The two are not mutually exclusive. It is, however, relatively off putting to know that we could be losing over $700 million dollars, that we can't afford to lose, rather than figure out a way to have the best of both worlds.
I have always had the utmost respect for you. Still do. And you've always had the ability to make those kinds of empowering choices. I don't see that you've lost that faculty or capacity now that you're governor. I think those muscles should have been enhanced.
This tax on Wall Street's greedy will definitely help the People of New York, if it's allocated appropriately. And while you are our Governor, please focus on what that means and where that is. Don't let the greedy get away with walking on the backs of the needy.
Governor Paterson, New York needs you to be the Governor that brought balance back to the state. And you can only do that by putting the people of New York first. You have to look at what's for our enduring good. Do we need homes? Yes. Do we need better jobs with career paths to them? Yes. Do we need a Transit System that is clean, safe, affordable and reliable? Yes we do. Do we need educational programs that prepare our children to be competent, competitive, and respectful in an age of buffoonery? Yes we definitely do. It may be time for a resumption of those town meetings you initiated to get a sense of what people are concerned about. That way you're not isolated (or insulated) from what's really happening.
I think you can leave a very wonderful and important legacy by not trodding over the same go no where paths your predecessors did. You have really lived among the real people of New York. You know what they need. We're looking to you to make it happen. We want you to go down in History as the Governor who save New York from itself.
Thank you and stay blessed.
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
(by the way - I am sending this response back to the email I received from you. I will be curious to see whether or not you receive it. And would appreciate a response from you in reference to this recommendation. )
BELOW IS THE TEXT OF THE MESSAGE I, AND PROBABLY MANY OF YOU, RECEIVED FROM GOVERNOR DAVID PATERSON IN REFERENCE TO THE TAX ON SUGAR SWEETENED BEVERAGES. I URGE YOU TO MAKE YOUR OWN FEELINGS (PRO or CON) KNOWN AS WELL.
My Fellow New Yorkers:
Obesity is a public health crisis. When over half the adults in this State, and one out of every four New Yorkers under the age of 18, are overweight or obese, we must recognize that there is a tremendous problem. Obesity is associated with life threatening conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer, and the consumption of sugar sweetened beverages is a major contributor to obesity. These health problems and costs will only increase in the future, unless we take steps to help all New Yorkers adopt healthier lifestyles.
By implementing my modified sugar-sweetened beverage tax, we will gain an effective tool to combat obesity. This plan will increase the price differential between the high sugar-high calorie and low sugar-low calorie beverages and encourage consumers to make healthier choices. A one cent per ounce excise tax would be added to sugary soft-drinks, bottled coffee and tea drinks with added sugar, powders and other sugary beverages, but my revised and improved plan will also eliminate the sales tax for bottled water and low-calorie drinks that have 10 or fewer calories per 8 oz.
New Yorkers spend an estimated $7.6 billion annually to treat obesity related health care costs. This initiative will help lower those costs over time, and improve the health and quality of life for all New Yorkers. Now is the time for us to take bold actions, and I again urge the Legislature to help me encourage healthy eating by approving this new tax on sugar sweetened beverages.
For more information about the modified sugar sweetened beverage tax package, please click here. Also, please share your views on this issue on Straight Talk from the Taxpayer.
Best,

David A. Paterson
Governor of New York State
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Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
ALERT: DIGITAL PHOTOCOPIERS KEEP A COPY OF YOUR PRIVATE DOCUMENTS ON THEIR HARD DRIVE
by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello Everybody
Make sure you Flag this message
ALERT: DIGITAL PHOTOCOPIERS KEEP A COPY OF YOUR PRIVATE DOCUMENTS ON THEIR HARD DRIVE - GASP!!!!!!!!!!
I am printing this title twice because it think it bears repeating. And it points to the seriousness of the situation.
I got this message, which I'm am sharing below, from my "Beautiful#1 Daughter, who is a computer graphics design specialist. I'm sharing it with you, because we are generally the last in line to know (although we are generally the first in line to be suspicious. Now we know that our suspicions are real. Congratulations!
Now, for the rest of us, who tried to deny it, let's do a reality check here. In your heart of hearts haven't you ever wondered whether or not any of the stuff you were copying on those trusty xerox machines (and their spin-offs) was also being recorded or copied on some sort of drive, and retained for some future purpose? You know you did. Well as I stated above, you were right. You can trust your intuition.
Per my Beautiful #1 Daughter: "First off, this is very scary. I'd hate to even imagine what would be stored on the drives. I was able to delete files from the log (I've worked w/similarly advanced printers of all sizes); but they probably didn't completely delete the document from the stored drive -- just a reference file link."
My Beautiful #1 Daughter continues: "Now, most printers go unchecked. There is no tech person going around reprinting all the documents stored. But with that said, there ARE managers who check the log for the amount of pages printed monthly (for example). I know, I used to work with them... which is why I know how to delete any personal links to stuff I printed "away from home."
My Beautiful #1 Daughter continues: "This is insanely irresponsible. If you have a business - this is IMPORTANT. Any homeowner who uses a copier should be aware."
That's so, in case you either bought or sold a copier, and have a home office of business and think you're exempt -- you're not. So you need to find out how to make sure your info is secured before you recycle it.
My Beautiful #1 Daughter, concludes: "But yeah, if anyone wanted to know what was printed, they could access it. True stuff! Love Your Beautiful #1 Daughter"
Date: Monday, May 24, 2010, 12:08 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pIFUOav2xE
Like most of us, you probably thought, well, "Big Brother is always watching, especially us Black folks. So what?"
Well, now that it's no longer just "Big Brother," American style, what then do we do about the countless millions of documents that are now being shipped inadvertently overseas to those who really do have the computer literacy (that we don't have, and that includes yours truly) to be able to use the information against us, or in a way that can really compromise you economically (i.e. yo' money); your I.D., or otherwise.
Time to clean house (theirs and ours. Time to make sure that the stuff really is scrubbed.
Nuff said (I hope)
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
PS: since I'm not great about transporting info from other sources (I'm working on becoming better); if you can't click on the youtube reference, just paste into your browser and take it from there.
GDW
Hello Everybody
Make sure you Flag this message
ALERT: DIGITAL PHOTOCOPIERS KEEP A COPY OF YOUR PRIVATE DOCUMENTS ON THEIR HARD DRIVE - GASP!!!!!!!!!!
I am printing this title twice because it think it bears repeating. And it points to the seriousness of the situation.
I got this message, which I'm am sharing below, from my "Beautiful#1 Daughter, who is a computer graphics design specialist. I'm sharing it with you, because we are generally the last in line to know (although we are generally the first in line to be suspicious. Now we know that our suspicions are real. Congratulations!
Now, for the rest of us, who tried to deny it, let's do a reality check here. In your heart of hearts haven't you ever wondered whether or not any of the stuff you were copying on those trusty xerox machines (and their spin-offs) was also being recorded or copied on some sort of drive, and retained for some future purpose? You know you did. Well as I stated above, you were right. You can trust your intuition.
Per my Beautiful #1 Daughter: "First off, this is very scary. I'd hate to even imagine what would be stored on the drives. I was able to delete files from the log (I've worked w/similarly advanced printers of all sizes); but they probably didn't completely delete the document from the stored drive -- just a reference file link."
My Beautiful #1 Daughter continues: "Now, most printers go unchecked. There is no tech person going around reprinting all the documents stored. But with that said, there ARE managers who check the log for the amount of pages printed monthly (for example). I know, I used to work with them... which is why I know how to delete any personal links to stuff I printed "away from home."
My Beautiful #1 Daughter continues: "This is insanely irresponsible. If you have a business - this is IMPORTANT. Any homeowner who uses a copier should be aware."
That's so, in case you either bought or sold a copier, and have a home office of business and think you're exempt -- you're not. So you need to find out how to make sure your info is secured before you recycle it.
My Beautiful #1 Daughter, concludes: "But yeah, if anyone wanted to know what was printed, they could access it. True stuff! Love Your Beautiful #1 Daughter"
Date: Monday, May 24, 2010, 12:08 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pIFUOav2xE
Like most of us, you probably thought, well, "Big Brother is always watching, especially us Black folks. So what?"
Well, now that it's no longer just "Big Brother," American style, what then do we do about the countless millions of documents that are now being shipped inadvertently overseas to those who really do have the computer literacy (that we don't have, and that includes yours truly) to be able to use the information against us, or in a way that can really compromise you economically (i.e. yo' money); your I.D., or otherwise.
Time to clean house (theirs and ours. Time to make sure that the stuff really is scrubbed.
Nuff said (I hope)
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
PS: since I'm not great about transporting info from other sources (I'm working on becoming better); if you can't click on the youtube reference, just paste into your browser and take it from there.
GDW
NACA IN ATLANTIC CITY: STOPS FORECLOSURES & TAKES THE GAMBLE OUT OF AFFORDABLE MORTGAGES
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All!!
Did any of you go to Atlantic City for the NACA Home Save Marathon?
They started operations Friday, May 21, and they really are working 24 hours a day til midnight Tuesday, May 25. According to one of the counselors, there were over 1,000 people outside the door when they opened.
On Sunday, May 23, I spent the day there, and I am pleased to say that most of the participants who came down, came from Brooklyn, Queens and parts of the Bronx. Long Island, Westchester, and Rockland County. While there were very few from Manhattan, most New Yorkers got the message and made it their business to get down to Atlantic City and take care of business regarding their mortgages and foreclosure/auction threat.
So, first off, I'm saying that I am so proud of my New York Brothers and Sisters!!! You handled your business!! The brothers and sisters who attended our March 20 and May 15 Workshops at the Bed-Stuy Multi-Services Center, are to be particularly congratulated for not sitting on what you learned.
While you were there getting your mortgages restructured; your foreclosures completely cancelled; getting predatory lenders out of your back pocket; unfortunately, the skeptics (remember the days when that was you?) from New Jersey, were still sitting at home making excuses, or doubting that NACA was real.
Remember last December when you were in the exact same space, when they came to Javits, and you didn’t find out that they were the real deal until the day before they were getting ready to move on to help another community?
Well, guess what? There are a lot of people in parts of Southern New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania, who have mortgages that are under water, who were reached out to by NACA, that are not going to receive their assistance, because either they, or someone “who knows everything” convinced them that it was bogus.
Such a shame. That makes them remain a negative statistic, instead of joining the ranks of those who got up, got down there, and got it done.
So, here’s what we’re going to do NEW YORK, because it does not benefit any of us to have essential information and not share it with the rest of us: If you have any friends, relatives, associates, even enemies, in the Southern New Jersey, Northern and suburban areas of Pennsylvania, or DC or Connecticut, or, or, or… (it really does not matter because NACA is national), tell them to:
GET TO ATLANTIC CITY IMMEDIATELY, IF NOT SOONER, BEFORE MIDNIGHT TUESDAY, MAY 25, BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY SO THEY CAN SAVE THEIR HOMES, REDUCE THEIR MORTGAGE, OR RECTIFY DISCREPANCIES THAT KEEP SHOWING UP IN THEIR PAYMENTS!!! CALL THEM, TEXT THEM, EMAIL THEM, FAX THEM -- WHAT EV! DO NOT KEEP THIS INFORMATION TO YOURSELVES.
It does not matter whether you’re African American, African, West Indian, Caribbean American, or White. We all need the roof over our heads. There are 80 banks onsite to help make sure you keep them. SO TELL YOUR FRIENDS (AND YES, EVEN YOUR ENEMIES) THAT THIS IS FOR REAL AND GET THERE BEFORE NACA LEAVES. THE HOME THEY SAVE MAY BE THEIRS.
For those of you who have attended our NACA workshops in Brooklyn in the past, I know you’ve had a question about your hardship letter, and what is appropriate to include in it. NACA actually has developed some guidelines that you can use. But, why do that if they are doing the solutions for you onsite in Atlantic City? Go down and get it done up close and personal.
So if you haven't made it to AC, now is the time to get your paperwork together, get on the Academy casino bus or Greyhound regular, or ACES (Atlantic City Express Service) Train or car, or whatever your preferred means of transpo, and get it done so you'll have a blessed summer, secure in the knowledge that you've done what you needed to do to preserve the roof over your and your family's head.
Like I said to many of our brothers and sisters: You all know how to get to Atlantic City. Who doesn't know who to get to the Trumps, Bally's and Caesar's? They’re within walking distance of the Convention Center, which is where NACA is in Hall D. Or stay at the Sheraton, they’re right across the street; get your work out done, and then go to TUN for celebratory meal and some music (stay out of the Casinos though. You don't want to gamble away the thousands you saved in those mortgage restructures, now do you?).
You can truly celebrate because this time you're not going there to gamble. You're going there to take the gamble out of continuing to own your own homes. So you might really call it a sure thing. So it's worth it, and it's now.
And please do keep me posted on your progress. If you have any photos you want to send, please do so. There were a lot of people who got up and testified on camera yesterday, but I did not know which ones came from New York City. If you have comments, recommendations, praise, you want to share, send it to me and I will post it.
When I left to come back home to New York City (around 10:00 pm), there were at least 100 people just coming out of one of the NACA WORKSHOPS getting ready for counseling. The second shift had come in at 9:00pm and were prepared to be there til dawn. NACA truly is working round the clock trying to help save homes! Wow!
Somebody should tell the people who actually live in the city of Atlantic City itself (not the casino owners). They seemed to have missed that information. And, since they're 70% underwater with their mortgages (literally) they should have been the first ones on line for the help. No offense to my New York brothers and sisters who had the good sense and good fortune of showing up and taking care of business. You're always number one!! -- But I'm just saying: If something good is happening in your own back yard, don't you think you should at least be somewhere in the mix?
The unfortunate truth is that Atlantic City, the venue, has very little to do with Atlantic City the actual community. From what we understand, there is little to no revenue sharing between the two entities, so the people who live there get precious little from the billions that literally flow through those fabulous venues. There is a similar disconnect when it comes to benefitting from such programs as NACA. While there were a great many efforts to outreach to the community itself (and we know there is one, because we can hear you breathing, and we see the stats), the response was just not there.
Needless to say, while he was totally gratified to find that we have done a great job in getting our New Yorkers out there, NACA founder and president, Bruce Marks was quite disappointed over the turn out of Atlantic City residents and those who live in Southern New Jersey. So churches, social services, community services, and other organizations who have the lists upon lists of people in your catchment area who are in peril of losing their homes: CONTACT THEM AND GET THEM TO THE NACA HOMESAVE IN ATLANTIC CITY. Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 25, is the last day.
Tell them to get up, get over there, and get it done. Stop gambling with the roof over their heads and get some of the blue chip service NACA is providing.
Stay Blessed &
EMPOWERED
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All!!
Did any of you go to Atlantic City for the NACA Home Save Marathon?
They started operations Friday, May 21, and they really are working 24 hours a day til midnight Tuesday, May 25. According to one of the counselors, there were over 1,000 people outside the door when they opened.
On Sunday, May 23, I spent the day there, and I am pleased to say that most of the participants who came down, came from Brooklyn, Queens and parts of the Bronx. Long Island, Westchester, and Rockland County. While there were very few from Manhattan, most New Yorkers got the message and made it their business to get down to Atlantic City and take care of business regarding their mortgages and foreclosure/auction threat.
So, first off, I'm saying that I am so proud of my New York Brothers and Sisters!!! You handled your business!! The brothers and sisters who attended our March 20 and May 15 Workshops at the Bed-Stuy Multi-Services Center, are to be particularly congratulated for not sitting on what you learned.
While you were there getting your mortgages restructured; your foreclosures completely cancelled; getting predatory lenders out of your back pocket; unfortunately, the skeptics (remember the days when that was you?) from New Jersey, were still sitting at home making excuses, or doubting that NACA was real.
Remember last December when you were in the exact same space, when they came to Javits, and you didn’t find out that they were the real deal until the day before they were getting ready to move on to help another community?
Well, guess what? There are a lot of people in parts of Southern New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania, who have mortgages that are under water, who were reached out to by NACA, that are not going to receive their assistance, because either they, or someone “who knows everything” convinced them that it was bogus.
Such a shame. That makes them remain a negative statistic, instead of joining the ranks of those who got up, got down there, and got it done.
So, here’s what we’re going to do NEW YORK, because it does not benefit any of us to have essential information and not share it with the rest of us: If you have any friends, relatives, associates, even enemies, in the Southern New Jersey, Northern and suburban areas of Pennsylvania, or DC or Connecticut, or, or, or… (it really does not matter because NACA is national), tell them to:
GET TO ATLANTIC CITY IMMEDIATELY, IF NOT SOONER, BEFORE MIDNIGHT TUESDAY, MAY 25, BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY SO THEY CAN SAVE THEIR HOMES, REDUCE THEIR MORTGAGE, OR RECTIFY DISCREPANCIES THAT KEEP SHOWING UP IN THEIR PAYMENTS!!! CALL THEM, TEXT THEM, EMAIL THEM, FAX THEM -- WHAT EV! DO NOT KEEP THIS INFORMATION TO YOURSELVES.
It does not matter whether you’re African American, African, West Indian, Caribbean American, or White. We all need the roof over our heads. There are 80 banks onsite to help make sure you keep them. SO TELL YOUR FRIENDS (AND YES, EVEN YOUR ENEMIES) THAT THIS IS FOR REAL AND GET THERE BEFORE NACA LEAVES. THE HOME THEY SAVE MAY BE THEIRS.
For those of you who have attended our NACA workshops in Brooklyn in the past, I know you’ve had a question about your hardship letter, and what is appropriate to include in it. NACA actually has developed some guidelines that you can use. But, why do that if they are doing the solutions for you onsite in Atlantic City? Go down and get it done up close and personal.
So if you haven't made it to AC, now is the time to get your paperwork together, get on the Academy casino bus or Greyhound regular, or ACES (Atlantic City Express Service) Train or car, or whatever your preferred means of transpo, and get it done so you'll have a blessed summer, secure in the knowledge that you've done what you needed to do to preserve the roof over your and your family's head.
Like I said to many of our brothers and sisters: You all know how to get to Atlantic City. Who doesn't know who to get to the Trumps, Bally's and Caesar's? They’re within walking distance of the Convention Center, which is where NACA is in Hall D. Or stay at the Sheraton, they’re right across the street; get your work out done, and then go to TUN for celebratory meal and some music (stay out of the Casinos though. You don't want to gamble away the thousands you saved in those mortgage restructures, now do you?).
You can truly celebrate because this time you're not going there to gamble. You're going there to take the gamble out of continuing to own your own homes. So you might really call it a sure thing. So it's worth it, and it's now.
And please do keep me posted on your progress. If you have any photos you want to send, please do so. There were a lot of people who got up and testified on camera yesterday, but I did not know which ones came from New York City. If you have comments, recommendations, praise, you want to share, send it to me and I will post it.
When I left to come back home to New York City (around 10:00 pm), there were at least 100 people just coming out of one of the NACA WORKSHOPS getting ready for counseling. The second shift had come in at 9:00pm and were prepared to be there til dawn. NACA truly is working round the clock trying to help save homes! Wow!
Somebody should tell the people who actually live in the city of Atlantic City itself (not the casino owners). They seemed to have missed that information. And, since they're 70% underwater with their mortgages (literally) they should have been the first ones on line for the help. No offense to my New York brothers and sisters who had the good sense and good fortune of showing up and taking care of business. You're always number one!! -- But I'm just saying: If something good is happening in your own back yard, don't you think you should at least be somewhere in the mix?
The unfortunate truth is that Atlantic City, the venue, has very little to do with Atlantic City the actual community. From what we understand, there is little to no revenue sharing between the two entities, so the people who live there get precious little from the billions that literally flow through those fabulous venues. There is a similar disconnect when it comes to benefitting from such programs as NACA. While there were a great many efforts to outreach to the community itself (and we know there is one, because we can hear you breathing, and we see the stats), the response was just not there.
Needless to say, while he was totally gratified to find that we have done a great job in getting our New Yorkers out there, NACA founder and president, Bruce Marks was quite disappointed over the turn out of Atlantic City residents and those who live in Southern New Jersey. So churches, social services, community services, and other organizations who have the lists upon lists of people in your catchment area who are in peril of losing their homes: CONTACT THEM AND GET THEM TO THE NACA HOMESAVE IN ATLANTIC CITY. Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 25, is the last day.
Tell them to get up, get over there, and get it done. Stop gambling with the roof over their heads and get some of the blue chip service NACA is providing.
Stay Blessed &
EMPOWERED
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Sunday, May 16, 2010
NACA IS TAKING THE GAMBLE OUT OF AFFORDABLE MORTGAGES AND HOMEOWNERSHIP- NEW YORKERS MUST BE THERE - NO EXCUSES!!
BY Gloria Dulan-Wilson
THIS IS BOTH A HEADS UP AND AN EVENT ALERT FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NEW YORKERS AND BE THERE -- NO EXCUSES
I'm sending you some information that should be of interest to many of your neighbors in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Manhattan, Long Island, Westchester, Dutchess County -- let's just say throughout New York, both downstate and upstate:
As you know, I have been working to help those who have been victimized via predatory lending and over priced mortgages by bringing NACA to New York, via Brooklyn.
You should know that there will be a massive NACA HOMESAVE PROGRAM SPONSORED BY NACA (Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America) IN ATLANTIC CITY May 21 through May 25 -- and ALL NEW YORKERS are eligible for INSTANT ONSITE RESTRUCTURING OF YOUR MORTGAGES and STOPPING FORECLOSURES.
This is the same program NACA presented in JAVITS in December of 2009, when NACA SAVED 3000 HOMES FROM FORECLOSURE IN 5 DAYS!!!
So, please spread the word and have them register online at www.naca.com; and make it their business to get to AC to save their homes.
NACA will be at the ATLANTIC CITY CONVENTION CENTER and serving the victims from the tri-state are of NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY AND PENNSYLVANIA, with 24 hour round the clock service, with 1000 counselors, and 80 banks and their servicers onsite to do INSTANT WORK OUTS.
This Round the Clock Marathon is so that people with problems can be serviced no matter what time of day or night.
All they have to do is get there.
Generally there are "casino buses" from New York City that take you to Atlantic City from Port Authority (42nd Street & 8th Ave in Manhattan) or from other private local sources. Usually they rebate part of the fare for use at the various casinos. There are now also trains that leave from Penn Station in New York and Newark, NJ that go directly to Atlantic City. There is also the possibility of Car Pooling.
Whatever the means of transpo, do whatever is necessary to get there because it is an opportunity to save homes, and spend the summer, not to mention the rest of the life of their mortgages not having to worry about it; saving money, as well as clearing up any arrears caused by predatory practices. NACA is HUD approved, and can also help those who are currently on unemployment, or receiving some form of Public Assistance. So no one should count themselves out.
You might say that ">NACA IS TAKING THE GAMBLE OUT OF STABILIZED MORTGAGES AND HOMEOWNERSHIP.
And by the way, you should let your contacts know that this is ALL FREE TO THEM!
The only caveats are that it must be their primary residence; they can only own one home; they cannot be on title or co-signed on any other properties. I.e. NACA is not for investors who own more than one property.
So if you, or any of your contacts are struggling with your mortgages, facing foreclosure, or are needing to restructure (not modify - restructure) your mortgages so that the monthly payments are manageable and you don't have to choose between the roof over your head or food on the table, then they should definitely make it their business to get to ATLANTIC CITY CONVENTION CENTER FOR THE NACA HOMESAVE PROGRAM, May 21 through May 25.
I will be keeping you posted on any updates in reference to the upcoming NACA event in Atlantic City or here in New York, so please check in; paste, post or share if you have info, suggestions or commentaries that are constructive and helpful to those who are facing the threat of losing their homes.
Thanks
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
THIS IS BOTH A HEADS UP AND AN EVENT ALERT FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION:
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NEW YORKERS AND BE THERE -- NO EXCUSES
I'm sending you some information that should be of interest to many of your neighbors in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Manhattan, Long Island, Westchester, Dutchess County -- let's just say throughout New York, both downstate and upstate:
As you know, I have been working to help those who have been victimized via predatory lending and over priced mortgages by bringing NACA to New York, via Brooklyn.
You should know that there will be a massive NACA HOMESAVE PROGRAM SPONSORED BY NACA (Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America) IN ATLANTIC CITY May 21 through May 25 -- and ALL NEW YORKERS are eligible for INSTANT ONSITE RESTRUCTURING OF YOUR MORTGAGES and STOPPING FORECLOSURES.
This is the same program NACA presented in JAVITS in December of 2009, when NACA SAVED 3000 HOMES FROM FORECLOSURE IN 5 DAYS!!!
So, please spread the word and have them register online at www.naca.com; and make it their business to get to AC to save their homes.
NACA will be at the ATLANTIC CITY CONVENTION CENTER and serving the victims from the tri-state are of NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY AND PENNSYLVANIA, with 24 hour round the clock service, with 1000 counselors, and 80 banks and their servicers onsite to do INSTANT WORK OUTS.
This Round the Clock Marathon is so that people with problems can be serviced no matter what time of day or night.
All they have to do is get there.
Generally there are "casino buses" from New York City that take you to Atlantic City from Port Authority (42nd Street & 8th Ave in Manhattan) or from other private local sources. Usually they rebate part of the fare for use at the various casinos. There are now also trains that leave from Penn Station in New York and Newark, NJ that go directly to Atlantic City. There is also the possibility of Car Pooling.
Whatever the means of transpo, do whatever is necessary to get there because it is an opportunity to save homes, and spend the summer, not to mention the rest of the life of their mortgages not having to worry about it; saving money, as well as clearing up any arrears caused by predatory practices. NACA is HUD approved, and can also help those who are currently on unemployment, or receiving some form of Public Assistance. So no one should count themselves out.
You might say that ">NACA IS TAKING THE GAMBLE OUT OF STABILIZED MORTGAGES AND HOMEOWNERSHIP.
And by the way, you should let your contacts know that this is ALL FREE TO THEM!
The only caveats are that it must be their primary residence; they can only own one home; they cannot be on title or co-signed on any other properties. I.e. NACA is not for investors who own more than one property.
So if you, or any of your contacts are struggling with your mortgages, facing foreclosure, or are needing to restructure (not modify - restructure) your mortgages so that the monthly payments are manageable and you don't have to choose between the roof over your head or food on the table, then they should definitely make it their business to get to ATLANTIC CITY CONVENTION CENTER FOR THE NACA HOMESAVE PROGRAM, May 21 through May 25.
I will be keeping you posted on any updates in reference to the upcoming NACA event in Atlantic City or here in New York, so please check in; paste, post or share if you have info, suggestions or commentaries that are constructive and helpful to those who are facing the threat of losing their homes.
Thanks
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Missing Miss Lena: :Lena Horne Makes Her Transition
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This was originally going to be an Event Alert article about a break-through theatrical production of “LENA: THE LIFE OF LENA HORNE”, which is set to preview on Sunday, May 16th, at the Lafayette Grill and Bar, in downtown Manhattan.**
But sadly, the thrust of my article has changed drastically. For you see, our dear Sister Lena Horne has made her transition. That wonderful, beautiful standard of Afrocentricity, and Black womanhood, who reigned from the early 40’s through the 21st Century, never losing one iota of her beauty, charm, grace, wit, poise, and clarity, has now joined her two peer-divas, Dr. Dorothy Height and Evelyn Cunningham.
Interestingly enough, each of those ladies were in their 90’s, and managed to retain their beauty, energy and enthusiasm. Each, was an activist; and each made their own contribution to Black people and the world in their own way. Each had made their mark. And neither of them will be forgotten.
Somewhere in the back of my psyche, as I remember each of these ladies, I silently think: I want to be like each of them when I grow up. (So I guess I’d better get started now.)
Ms. Lena Horne was a legend in my life from a very young age. When I was a kid growing up in a still-segregated Oklahoma City, OK, my parents would take us to either the Aldrich, the East Side or the Jewel Theater -- all Black-owned motion picture theaters -- in our communities. We would sit and watch Lena Horne , dressed in the most elegant gowns, singing Stormy Weather (with Katherine Duhnam dancing in the background); or Cabin In The Sky with Paul Robeson and Todd Duncan. These wonderful Black cinema classics still hold their own today.
{Note: The great thing about Black owned theaters in Oklahoma City was that they would continuously show old and new Black movies, as well as contemporary white movies. So as kids we’d see old Black movies from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, alongside whatever else was current -- Duke Ellington’s “Black and Tan Fantasy”, Oscar Michaeaux’s “Bronze Buckaroo,” etc., Anna Lucasta, and others spring to mind.}
I remember watching Ms. Lena with Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, and some of the other Black artists, and thinking how beautiful she was. She had an energy about her and a sparkle in her eyes, that was still there when she played Glenda the Good Witch of the West in the movie production of “The Wiz”, starring Diana Ross.
She had that exact same sparkle in her eyes when I met her in the 90’s at the premiere of “And Then I’ll Be Free To Travel Home”, where she hosted Eric Tait’s documentary of the African Burial Ground, held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).
And, as I watched her speak, interact with Eric, Noel Pointer, Lillian Smith, and others, knowing that at that time she was in her 80’s, I thought, “How does she do it? She looks fabulous!” She moved about with the grace and ease of a woman half her age -- not a bulge, not a limp, no trace of age or illness.
But what impressed me even more than her appearance, was her dedication and devotion to promoting and supporting Eric Tait’s work in documenting the recovery of our ancestral remains, as well as her wealth of knowledge of things African and Black history.
Ms. Horne was not just beauty, she was also brains as well. She was so well informed, it was clear that the information could not have come from a mere preliminary briefing. She was totally tuned in. Her dedication to the African Burial Ground was recently re-iterated during a recent re-release of Eric Tait’s documentary in 2010, where she gave the introduction of the DVD.
I am in awe of Ms. Horne’s activisim. It truly spoke volumes about her love for her people, her gentility; her genuine dedication. She could have easily rested on her laurels as a Black beauty, heralded by the European world, but she refused to be relegated to a status that denied her dignity as a Black woman.
That courage of conviction and feisty spirit is no less resonant in her daughter Gail Lumet Buckley, whose love of history and research was wholeheartedly supported and heralded by her famous mother.
Ms. Horne had the wonderful quality of making you feel totally comfortable in her presence. She was approachable. She listened. She responded. She was genteel and joyful. You could not help but smile when you were around her.
And I know that they’re smiling even more in heaven, because now they have added another to the pantheon. I’m just wondering, though, can they stand to have three Black female activists there at the same time? Wow! That’s really going to be something.
My even earlier memories of Ms. Lena was when a friend of mine had completed a TV Production Training program sponsored by Chanel 13. They were holding a graduation ceremony and I was an invited to the screening of her graduation documentary.
The room was dark to accommodate the movie screen, so you could not see who was in the room. I remember being sent to a table where there were already several other people seated. When the lights came up I realized I was seated at a table with Lena Horne, Cicely Tyson, and a few other celebrities.
Ms. Horne and Ms. Tyson were both down to earth, jovial, and gracious. I was stunned. But I remember saying silently “Thank you, God!” I felt as though I was in such a privileged space, sitting with these two Divas.
They talked about everyday occurrences, their next projects; the importance of Black television programming. I just listened and soaked it up. My friend said that it was the first time she had ever seen me rendered speechless. I was totally awestruck. I have absolutely no idea what I said. I remember thinking if these two ladies are trying to out compliment each other, it’s an impossibility because they’re both so great.
Just that brief interaction with Ms. Horne taught me an important lesson about the facts of life and living in New York City: practically everyone in New York is a celebrity of one sort or another. For that reason, no one gawks at anyone. In New York, generally, we don’t have mobs running after a celebrity; we give them their respect and their privacy.
The memory I took away from the event and still hold to this day is that Ms. Horne and Ms. Tyson were two fantastic, down to earth women who were just as involved in what was happening in their community as they were being on the big screen.
My condolences to her family, and to the rest of us. But not to mourn the loss, but to celebrate the gain. We have been blessed with having Ms. Lena Horne among us for these 92 years, and we have been the beneficiary of her love, largess, creativity, activism. Each of us should definitely take a bit of Lena Horne with us and replicate what this wonderful woman started.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
**Lena: The Life of Lena Horne, Written and Directd by Nickolas Long III, starring Mia Davis, Andrea Womack, Kwasi Osei, Tangie Quinn, Cherisse Brandley, James F. Barrett IV, J. Lyn, at the Lafayette Grill and Bar, 54 Franklin Street (between B’way and Lafayette) call 212-732-4449 for info and times.
This was originally going to be an Event Alert article about a break-through theatrical production of “LENA: THE LIFE OF LENA HORNE”, which is set to preview on Sunday, May 16th, at the Lafayette Grill and Bar, in downtown Manhattan.**
But sadly, the thrust of my article has changed drastically. For you see, our dear Sister Lena Horne has made her transition. That wonderful, beautiful standard of Afrocentricity, and Black womanhood, who reigned from the early 40’s through the 21st Century, never losing one iota of her beauty, charm, grace, wit, poise, and clarity, has now joined her two peer-divas, Dr. Dorothy Height and Evelyn Cunningham.
Interestingly enough, each of those ladies were in their 90’s, and managed to retain their beauty, energy and enthusiasm. Each, was an activist; and each made their own contribution to Black people and the world in their own way. Each had made their mark. And neither of them will be forgotten.
Somewhere in the back of my psyche, as I remember each of these ladies, I silently think: I want to be like each of them when I grow up. (So I guess I’d better get started now.)
Ms. Lena Horne was a legend in my life from a very young age. When I was a kid growing up in a still-segregated Oklahoma City, OK, my parents would take us to either the Aldrich, the East Side or the Jewel Theater -- all Black-owned motion picture theaters -- in our communities. We would sit and watch Lena Horne , dressed in the most elegant gowns, singing Stormy Weather (with Katherine Duhnam dancing in the background); or Cabin In The Sky with Paul Robeson and Todd Duncan. These wonderful Black cinema classics still hold their own today.
{Note: The great thing about Black owned theaters in Oklahoma City was that they would continuously show old and new Black movies, as well as contemporary white movies. So as kids we’d see old Black movies from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, alongside whatever else was current -- Duke Ellington’s “Black and Tan Fantasy”, Oscar Michaeaux’s “Bronze Buckaroo,” etc., Anna Lucasta, and others spring to mind.}
I remember watching Ms. Lena with Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, and some of the other Black artists, and thinking how beautiful she was. She had an energy about her and a sparkle in her eyes, that was still there when she played Glenda the Good Witch of the West in the movie production of “The Wiz”, starring Diana Ross.
She had that exact same sparkle in her eyes when I met her in the 90’s at the premiere of “And Then I’ll Be Free To Travel Home”, where she hosted Eric Tait’s documentary of the African Burial Ground, held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).
And, as I watched her speak, interact with Eric, Noel Pointer, Lillian Smith, and others, knowing that at that time she was in her 80’s, I thought, “How does she do it? She looks fabulous!” She moved about with the grace and ease of a woman half her age -- not a bulge, not a limp, no trace of age or illness.
But what impressed me even more than her appearance, was her dedication and devotion to promoting and supporting Eric Tait’s work in documenting the recovery of our ancestral remains, as well as her wealth of knowledge of things African and Black history.
Ms. Horne was not just beauty, she was also brains as well. She was so well informed, it was clear that the information could not have come from a mere preliminary briefing. She was totally tuned in. Her dedication to the African Burial Ground was recently re-iterated during a recent re-release of Eric Tait’s documentary in 2010, where she gave the introduction of the DVD.
I am in awe of Ms. Horne’s activisim. It truly spoke volumes about her love for her people, her gentility; her genuine dedication. She could have easily rested on her laurels as a Black beauty, heralded by the European world, but she refused to be relegated to a status that denied her dignity as a Black woman.
That courage of conviction and feisty spirit is no less resonant in her daughter Gail Lumet Buckley, whose love of history and research was wholeheartedly supported and heralded by her famous mother.
Ms. Horne had the wonderful quality of making you feel totally comfortable in her presence. She was approachable. She listened. She responded. She was genteel and joyful. You could not help but smile when you were around her.
And I know that they’re smiling even more in heaven, because now they have added another to the pantheon. I’m just wondering, though, can they stand to have three Black female activists there at the same time? Wow! That’s really going to be something.
My even earlier memories of Ms. Lena was when a friend of mine had completed a TV Production Training program sponsored by Chanel 13. They were holding a graduation ceremony and I was an invited to the screening of her graduation documentary.
The room was dark to accommodate the movie screen, so you could not see who was in the room. I remember being sent to a table where there were already several other people seated. When the lights came up I realized I was seated at a table with Lena Horne, Cicely Tyson, and a few other celebrities.
Ms. Horne and Ms. Tyson were both down to earth, jovial, and gracious. I was stunned. But I remember saying silently “Thank you, God!” I felt as though I was in such a privileged space, sitting with these two Divas.
They talked about everyday occurrences, their next projects; the importance of Black television programming. I just listened and soaked it up. My friend said that it was the first time she had ever seen me rendered speechless. I was totally awestruck. I have absolutely no idea what I said. I remember thinking if these two ladies are trying to out compliment each other, it’s an impossibility because they’re both so great.
Just that brief interaction with Ms. Horne taught me an important lesson about the facts of life and living in New York City: practically everyone in New York is a celebrity of one sort or another. For that reason, no one gawks at anyone. In New York, generally, we don’t have mobs running after a celebrity; we give them their respect and their privacy.
The memory I took away from the event and still hold to this day is that Ms. Horne and Ms. Tyson were two fantastic, down to earth women who were just as involved in what was happening in their community as they were being on the big screen.
My condolences to her family, and to the rest of us. But not to mourn the loss, but to celebrate the gain. We have been blessed with having Ms. Lena Horne among us for these 92 years, and we have been the beneficiary of her love, largess, creativity, activism. Each of us should definitely take a bit of Lena Horne with us and replicate what this wonderful woman started.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
**Lena: The Life of Lena Horne, Written and Directd by Nickolas Long III, starring Mia Davis, Andrea Womack, Kwasi Osei, Tangie Quinn, Cherisse Brandley, James F. Barrett IV, J. Lyn, at the Lafayette Grill and Bar, 54 Franklin Street (between B’way and Lafayette) call 212-732-4449 for info and times.
Nigerian President Yar’Adua Succumbs to Illness; Nigeria officially in Seven Days of Mourning
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
With the passing of key leaders here in the United States -- Benjamin Hooks, Dorothy Height, Lena Horne, Evelyn Cunningham and others, we have yet another leader, whose star was just rising on the horizon, who has made his transition.
It is with great sadness that I announce that Nigeria’s President, Umaru Yar’Adua, who had been battling kidney and heart problems for months, made his transition on May 5, quietly at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, with his wife, Turai, and loved ones surrounding him. He was 58 years old.
Elected in 2007, Yar’Adua stood for reforms and progress, and had begun moving the country forward, with reconciliation of many dissident groups, and stemming the tide of corruption as his main focus.
According to many reports, he was a quiet, well thought out, soft spoken man, who loved his people and his country. According to sources, his election was the first peaceful transition from one civilian president to another, and the beginning of peaceful progress.
President Barack Obama expressed his condolences to the family and called President Yar'Adua a man of "profound personal decency and integrity. President Yar'Adua worked to promote peace and stability in Africa through his support of Nigerian peacekeeping efforts as well as his strong criticism of undemocratic actions in the region"
Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, who assumed the responsibilities of President during his illness stated, “Nigeria has lost the jewel on its crown, and even the heavens mourn with our nation tonight.” He has declared Thursday, May 13, a national holiday. President Yar’Adua will be buried before sundown Thursday, in accordance with his Muslim faith.
According to Nigerian law, Vice President Goodluck Jonathan becomes the president, and will carry out the many programs initiated by President Yar’Adua before falling ill. He had actually been serving as interim president, and had already begun the difficult task of reconstituting the cabinet to move forward with the many issues the country faces.
A member of Nigeria’s ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Jonathan took the oath of office Thursday, May 6 at the presidential villa in the capital of Abuja. He pledges to fight corruption and pursue a lasting peace in the troubled, oil-rich Niger Delta. “Our total commitment to good governance, electoral reform and the fight against corruption would be pursued with greater vigor,” said Jonathan. “Similarly, the effort at ensuring the sustenance of peace and development in the Niger Delta as well as the security of life and property around the entire country would be of top most priority in the remaining period of this administration.”
Under Nigeria's constitution, he will remain president until the next elections scheduled to be held by April 2011 - less than a year away. He also will nominate a vice president, subject to Senate approval.
Our condolences are extended the Yar’Adua family and to all of our brothers and sisters in Nigeria, along with the hopes for a peaceful, powerful, progressive, prosperous future under President Jonathan.
May we all pull together to make it so.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
With the passing of key leaders here in the United States -- Benjamin Hooks, Dorothy Height, Lena Horne, Evelyn Cunningham and others, we have yet another leader, whose star was just rising on the horizon, who has made his transition.
It is with great sadness that I announce that Nigeria’s President, Umaru Yar’Adua, who had been battling kidney and heart problems for months, made his transition on May 5, quietly at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, with his wife, Turai, and loved ones surrounding him. He was 58 years old.
Elected in 2007, Yar’Adua stood for reforms and progress, and had begun moving the country forward, with reconciliation of many dissident groups, and stemming the tide of corruption as his main focus.
According to many reports, he was a quiet, well thought out, soft spoken man, who loved his people and his country. According to sources, his election was the first peaceful transition from one civilian president to another, and the beginning of peaceful progress.
President Barack Obama expressed his condolences to the family and called President Yar'Adua a man of "profound personal decency and integrity. President Yar'Adua worked to promote peace and stability in Africa through his support of Nigerian peacekeeping efforts as well as his strong criticism of undemocratic actions in the region"
Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, who assumed the responsibilities of President during his illness stated, “Nigeria has lost the jewel on its crown, and even the heavens mourn with our nation tonight.” He has declared Thursday, May 13, a national holiday. President Yar’Adua will be buried before sundown Thursday, in accordance with his Muslim faith.
According to Nigerian law, Vice President Goodluck Jonathan becomes the president, and will carry out the many programs initiated by President Yar’Adua before falling ill. He had actually been serving as interim president, and had already begun the difficult task of reconstituting the cabinet to move forward with the many issues the country faces.
A member of Nigeria’s ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Jonathan took the oath of office Thursday, May 6 at the presidential villa in the capital of Abuja. He pledges to fight corruption and pursue a lasting peace in the troubled, oil-rich Niger Delta. “Our total commitment to good governance, electoral reform and the fight against corruption would be pursued with greater vigor,” said Jonathan. “Similarly, the effort at ensuring the sustenance of peace and development in the Niger Delta as well as the security of life and property around the entire country would be of top most priority in the remaining period of this administration.”
Under Nigeria's constitution, he will remain president until the next elections scheduled to be held by April 2011 - less than a year away. He also will nominate a vice president, subject to Senate approval.
Our condolences are extended the Yar’Adua family and to all of our brothers and sisters in Nigeria, along with the hopes for a peaceful, powerful, progressive, prosperous future under President Jonathan.
May we all pull together to make it so.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
NACA BACK IN BROOKLYN BY POPULAR DEMAND MAY 15
bY Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Satuday, May 15 will be a beautiful day in more ways than one, because NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, is hosting a special foreclosure mitigation workshop.
There will be two workshops held that day.
Workshop One NACA RETURNEES: (10:00AM - 12:00PM)
This workshop is for those members who have already participated in either of the two previous workshops (January2 or March 20 or any of the workshops held by any other organization for NACA) for participation in the upcoming on-site Same Day Solution Event taking place in Atlantic City at the Convention Center, May 21 through May 25.
Those participants will bring their paperwork, unique NACA ID’s and any additional documents and work with NACA counselors to make sure they have all their information in order to expedite having their mortgages restructured on the spot.
By participating in the preliminary workshop on May 15, the amount of time it will take to complete the necessary transactions will be greatly reduced.
NACA NEW PARTICPANTS: (1:00PM - 4:00PM)
For First Time Participants who have never attended any of the NACA workshops, and need immediate assistance. By signing up on May 15, 2010, and attending the workshop, you can expedite restructuring your mortgage, as well. However, it will be necessary for individuals who are coming to the NACA Workshop for the first time to participate in the mandatory two-hour workshop.
December of 2009, NACA performed a similar program in New York City at the Jacob Javits Center, where, in less than 5 days they restructured over 3000 mortgages, bringing interest rates down to as little as 2% in most instances on an permanent basis.
NACA OFFERS IMMEDIATE FORECLOSURE RESTRUCTURING IN AC -- NEW YORK RESIDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE -- PREVIOUS NACA PARTICIPANTS WHO HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED WORK OUT SOLUTIONS ARE URGED TO BRING PAPERWORK FOR ON THE SPOT SOLUTIONS.
Because we know that thousands of people will be converging on Atlantic City, NJ’s Convention Center to receive assistance, we are strongly urging New Yorkers to take advantage of the May 15 workshops to get your paperwork in order or get the process started. NACA is taking the gamble out of your mortgage and retructuring your payments so that they are affordable and reasonable.
So come on May 15 for the preliminary documentation session and then get ready to go to Atlantic City, Saturday, May 22 and be among the many fortunate families or individuals to have your mortgage restructured.
To register go on line and visit www.NACA.com or call 888-499-6222.
And for those of you who are committed to having NACA established here in Brooklyn, more good news:
On Friday, May 21, 2010, Friday, May 21, Bed-Stuy Multi-Services Center will be holding a fund raiser featuring none other than Ms. Stephanie Mills. A portion of the proceeds will go to establish a local NACA office here in Brooklyn New York that will service the needs of New Yorkers and parts of the tri-state area. While the services NACA provides are free, they need an ongoing office space to provide even greater services, including First Time Homebuyer free down payment and closing cost programs.
Your support and participation in this event will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Stay Blessed,
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Satuday, May 15 will be a beautiful day in more ways than one, because NACA, the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, is hosting a special foreclosure mitigation workshop.
There will be two workshops held that day.
Workshop One NACA RETURNEES: (10:00AM - 12:00PM)
This workshop is for those members who have already participated in either of the two previous workshops (January2 or March 20 or any of the workshops held by any other organization for NACA) for participation in the upcoming on-site Same Day Solution Event taking place in Atlantic City at the Convention Center, May 21 through May 25.
Those participants will bring their paperwork, unique NACA ID’s and any additional documents and work with NACA counselors to make sure they have all their information in order to expedite having their mortgages restructured on the spot.
By participating in the preliminary workshop on May 15, the amount of time it will take to complete the necessary transactions will be greatly reduced.
NACA NEW PARTICPANTS: (1:00PM - 4:00PM)
For First Time Participants who have never attended any of the NACA workshops, and need immediate assistance. By signing up on May 15, 2010, and attending the workshop, you can expedite restructuring your mortgage, as well. However, it will be necessary for individuals who are coming to the NACA Workshop for the first time to participate in the mandatory two-hour workshop.
December of 2009, NACA performed a similar program in New York City at the Jacob Javits Center, where, in less than 5 days they restructured over 3000 mortgages, bringing interest rates down to as little as 2% in most instances on an permanent basis.
NACA OFFERS IMMEDIATE FORECLOSURE RESTRUCTURING IN AC -- NEW YORK RESIDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE -- PREVIOUS NACA PARTICIPANTS WHO HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED WORK OUT SOLUTIONS ARE URGED TO BRING PAPERWORK FOR ON THE SPOT SOLUTIONS.
Because we know that thousands of people will be converging on Atlantic City, NJ’s Convention Center to receive assistance, we are strongly urging New Yorkers to take advantage of the May 15 workshops to get your paperwork in order or get the process started. NACA is taking the gamble out of your mortgage and retructuring your payments so that they are affordable and reasonable.
So come on May 15 for the preliminary documentation session and then get ready to go to Atlantic City, Saturday, May 22 and be among the many fortunate families or individuals to have your mortgage restructured.
To register go on line and visit www.NACA.com or call 888-499-6222.
And for those of you who are committed to having NACA established here in Brooklyn, more good news:
On Friday, May 21, 2010, Friday, May 21, Bed-Stuy Multi-Services Center will be holding a fund raiser featuring none other than Ms. Stephanie Mills. A portion of the proceeds will go to establish a local NACA office here in Brooklyn New York that will service the needs of New Yorkers and parts of the tri-state area. While the services NACA provides are free, they need an ongoing office space to provide even greater services, including First Time Homebuyer free down payment and closing cost programs.
Your support and participation in this event will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Stay Blessed,
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
HONORING EVELYN CUNNINGHAM MAY 4 AT ST. PHILIPS IN HARLEM
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All:
Especially to my sisters and brothers in the world of Journalism and Writing:
Evelyn Cunningham was truly a trailblazer. Even unto her 90's she always stood tall and unwavering in her beliefs and her support of Black People.
She would be at practically all programs having to do with the uplift of Black people, sitting tall with perfect posture, always smiling, always pleasant.
She has made her transition within the same time span as Dr. Dorothy I Height, and Dr. Benjamin Hooks -- all great Black leaders, great Black communicators, Great Black Activists.
I think we can do no less than to be there tomorrow (today), May 4, 2010 at St. Philips Church (134th between Lenox and 7th Ave) at 2:00 pm, to honor her in her homegoing memorial, knowing full well that when we come out, we have to go and get our shoe sizes checked, because we can no longer walk in the ones we are accustomed to.
We've now got even bigger shoes to fill.
Actually, we may even have to develop a love of hats and a sense of humor as well -- be cause Evelyn will be keeping a running report to Dr. Height, who in turn will pass it on to Dr. Hooks.
Let's don't get it twisted -- we are none of us too busy to honor those who blazed those trails.
Stay blessed
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Watch for my follow up on Ms. Cunningham's homegoing ceremony in upcoming blogs
Hello All:
Especially to my sisters and brothers in the world of Journalism and Writing:
Evelyn Cunningham was truly a trailblazer. Even unto her 90's she always stood tall and unwavering in her beliefs and her support of Black People.
She would be at practically all programs having to do with the uplift of Black people, sitting tall with perfect posture, always smiling, always pleasant.
She has made her transition within the same time span as Dr. Dorothy I Height, and Dr. Benjamin Hooks -- all great Black leaders, great Black communicators, Great Black Activists.
I think we can do no less than to be there tomorrow (today), May 4, 2010 at St. Philips Church (134th between Lenox and 7th Ave) at 2:00 pm, to honor her in her homegoing memorial, knowing full well that when we come out, we have to go and get our shoe sizes checked, because we can no longer walk in the ones we are accustomed to.
We've now got even bigger shoes to fill.
Actually, we may even have to develop a love of hats and a sense of humor as well -- be cause Evelyn will be keeping a running report to Dr. Height, who in turn will pass it on to Dr. Hooks.
Let's don't get it twisted -- we are none of us too busy to honor those who blazed those trails.
Stay blessed
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Watch for my follow up on Ms. Cunningham's homegoing ceremony in upcoming blogs
Saturday, May 1, 2010
ASHFORD AND SIMPSON’S SUGAR BAR
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I’ve not been hanging out as much as I normally do. I know my friends have noticed, but I’ve been up to my elbows in studies. So when a friend of mine recently invited me out to a belated birthday dinner at Ashford and Simpson’s Sugar Bar in mid-town Manhattan, I literally jumped at the chance. I had not been there in months. And all I can say to my friend, Preston, is thanks muchly. What a blast! I had a fabulous time!
Traditionally, Thursday night is OPEN MIKE NIGHT at the Sugar Bar, drawing talent from around the world, as well as local regulars, and those just starting out, who belt out their favorite songs, with the back up of the house band and the vocalizations of Valerie Simpson, Kathie Jordan-Sharpton (the former Ms. Al Sharpton), and others on the side.
What fun! Of course, you have to have either guts of talent to get up there - or equal amounts of both. And there are some real talented people in our fair city.
There are a fair amount of celebrities who gather there to dine and dish, while the rest of the audience is made up of New Yorkers, tourists, and other artists who come out to hang, have a good time and perhaps scout other talent.
Allyson Williams, Ron Grant and Freddie Jackson were among the crowd that evening. Freddie, in rare form, was hanging out with Nick Ashford and some of the other guests. Bobbi Humphrey, a regular there, was missing action, having just returned from the funeral of Joe Barnes mother in St. Louis, MO.
Ron Grant, who had just returned from watching his daughter graduate from college in Miami, Florida, stopped by long enough to sing one of his signature songs, before going in from the evening.
Always stunning, Allyson also sang, but was equally excited about the upcoming events at Sugar Bar: beginning Saturday, May 1, 2010, Sugar Bar will host First Saturday Comedy Night.
Every Tuesday, beginning May 11, Sugar Bar will host Nuttin’ but the Blues open mic nights. Ebony Jo Ann will be one of the featured artists.
Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9 they will host Mother’s Day brunch featuring jazz artist, Nicole Zuraitis.
As wonderful as the cuisine is, and it was -- I had the Crusted Red Snapper with Rice and Beans, Collards, and Cornbread; my friend had the Teriyaki Salmon and Mixed Vegetables, and that monster sized Avocado Salad! That’s not what turns me on to Sugar Bar.
And as fabulously Afrocentric as the interior is -- all African Artifacts put together by none other than Nick Ashford himself --I am begging him to do a book on Afrocentric interior design --Even that is not what turns me on to the Sugar Bar.
What has always made me appreciate Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson and the Sugar Bar is their consciousness, concern and tie in with the Black community.
Regardless of whatever else is going on, they take time out to pay due respect or mention issues and concerns that impact Black people. And that evening was no different, when Valerie reminded the audience of the passing of Dr. Dorothy I. Height, former President of the National Conference of Negro Women, former President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (my sorority/my soror), who recently made her transition at the age of 98. She asked that the audience pay homage to Dr. Height and not allow a gap between the service she’s given and what they can give.
I am also reminded that it was Nick and Val who held memorial celebrations in honor of the late, great Nina Simone, which they have continued since her demise.
So, in addition to providing a place where we can come and be entertained, be surrounded by positive culturally based décor, and interacting with positive, people, the level of consciousness is part and parcel of who they are and what makes them great.
The rest is just the pure fun and enjoyment we had watching the various talents get their song on at the Sugar Bar, knowing there will be no Sand Man Simms to pull them off, no matter how bad or bizarre they are.
It’s to their credit that they have been able to hang in and provide entertainment and hospitality to keep us bonding and enjoying each other’s energies. If you haven’t done so already, or if you haven’t been there in a long time, go and check them out.
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
I’ve not been hanging out as much as I normally do. I know my friends have noticed, but I’ve been up to my elbows in studies. So when a friend of mine recently invited me out to a belated birthday dinner at Ashford and Simpson’s Sugar Bar in mid-town Manhattan, I literally jumped at the chance. I had not been there in months. And all I can say to my friend, Preston, is thanks muchly. What a blast! I had a fabulous time!
Traditionally, Thursday night is OPEN MIKE NIGHT at the Sugar Bar, drawing talent from around the world, as well as local regulars, and those just starting out, who belt out their favorite songs, with the back up of the house band and the vocalizations of Valerie Simpson, Kathie Jordan-Sharpton (the former Ms. Al Sharpton), and others on the side.
What fun! Of course, you have to have either guts of talent to get up there - or equal amounts of both. And there are some real talented people in our fair city.
There are a fair amount of celebrities who gather there to dine and dish, while the rest of the audience is made up of New Yorkers, tourists, and other artists who come out to hang, have a good time and perhaps scout other talent.
Allyson Williams, Ron Grant and Freddie Jackson were among the crowd that evening. Freddie, in rare form, was hanging out with Nick Ashford and some of the other guests. Bobbi Humphrey, a regular there, was missing action, having just returned from the funeral of Joe Barnes mother in St. Louis, MO.
Ron Grant, who had just returned from watching his daughter graduate from college in Miami, Florida, stopped by long enough to sing one of his signature songs, before going in from the evening.
Always stunning, Allyson also sang, but was equally excited about the upcoming events at Sugar Bar: beginning Saturday, May 1, 2010, Sugar Bar will host First Saturday Comedy Night.
Every Tuesday, beginning May 11, Sugar Bar will host Nuttin’ but the Blues open mic nights. Ebony Jo Ann will be one of the featured artists.
Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9 they will host Mother’s Day brunch featuring jazz artist, Nicole Zuraitis.
As wonderful as the cuisine is, and it was -- I had the Crusted Red Snapper with Rice and Beans, Collards, and Cornbread; my friend had the Teriyaki Salmon and Mixed Vegetables, and that monster sized Avocado Salad! That’s not what turns me on to Sugar Bar.
And as fabulously Afrocentric as the interior is -- all African Artifacts put together by none other than Nick Ashford himself --I am begging him to do a book on Afrocentric interior design --Even that is not what turns me on to the Sugar Bar.
What has always made me appreciate Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson and the Sugar Bar is their consciousness, concern and tie in with the Black community.
Regardless of whatever else is going on, they take time out to pay due respect or mention issues and concerns that impact Black people. And that evening was no different, when Valerie reminded the audience of the passing of Dr. Dorothy I. Height, former President of the National Conference of Negro Women, former President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (my sorority/my soror), who recently made her transition at the age of 98. She asked that the audience pay homage to Dr. Height and not allow a gap between the service she’s given and what they can give.
I am also reminded that it was Nick and Val who held memorial celebrations in honor of the late, great Nina Simone, which they have continued since her demise.
So, in addition to providing a place where we can come and be entertained, be surrounded by positive culturally based décor, and interacting with positive, people, the level of consciousness is part and parcel of who they are and what makes them great.
The rest is just the pure fun and enjoyment we had watching the various talents get their song on at the Sugar Bar, knowing there will be no Sand Man Simms to pull them off, no matter how bad or bizarre they are.
It’s to their credit that they have been able to hang in and provide entertainment and hospitality to keep us bonding and enjoying each other’s energies. If you haven’t done so already, or if you haven’t been there in a long time, go and check them out.
Stay blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
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