WELCOME TO Issue 10
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ANNIVERSARY ISSUE
ERIC CROW DRAVEN
THE
BRPP
STAFF
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KIMBERLY MORROW
CEO EDITOR IN CHIEF BRPP NETWORK 2
Rosalind Cherry aka The Cherry Bomb Author/Poet/ Singer/Radio Personality There are numerous poets to be followed all over facebook, but in my opinion, none as rare as the jewel Rosalind Cherry. Along with inking and spitting some extraordinary verses, Rosalind also sings her poetry...that's right...she sings her poetry. Not just a poet and author but a singer with a very original and soulful sound. Ms. Cherry, dubbed Cherry Bomb by a dear friend and fellow poetess, brings a certain flair to poetry that is not brought by any other and she does it in her own unique and special way. It is this combustible combination of soul and fire that earned Ms. Cherry the perfect poetic nickname.."The Cherry Bomb." With four dynamic poetry books under her belt and her first full length psychological thriller in the works, the sky's the limit for Ms. Cherry. Her eyes are looking in the direction of producing and releasing her first spoken/sung poetry CD this year. 3
James Whaley aka Aquarius Khan Writer/Poet/ Columnist "Aquarius Khan� born and raised in New York City is known for his controversial, yet truly historical writings and poetry a focus on Afrocentricity- and the belief in an Afrikan God and Goddess. He has studied ancient Africa, Kumet and ancient Egypt at great lengths and has no problem sharing his findings and thoughts. You can find him and his superb work on Facebook in various poetry, awareness, and Tribal based groups daily and his work inspires many to get to know the truth about our roots and heritage. Several of his pieces have been published in BRPP Magazine's Poetry Publication and also in a World Peace anthology published by InnerChild Press entitled DISCIPLE . You definitely can't miss his monthly column "Up You Mighty Race" in BRPP Magazine. He is in the process of working on his first book of writings entitled CHILDREN OF A BLACK GOD that will hopefully be published by BlaqRayn Publishing Plus. I am truly honored to call him my brother..
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Tiffany Glover aka Jayne Phlow Author/SpokenWord Artist/Poet/Editor/ Columnist Tiffany D. Glover, aka Jayne Phlow, has been writing poetry for roughly 25 years and performing for approximately 17 years. Growing up as an only child, Tiffany retreated into her own private world of imaginary friends and books upon books upon books. English, Spelling, Grammar and Literature were always her favorite subjects in school and she soon discovered she had a knack for essay writing, entering and actually winning a few contests throughout her middle and high school years. When artists Lauryn Hill, Alanis Morrisette, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott hit the music scene, she was intrigued at how they sang about their loves and hurts and pains, yet made it sound like sweet therapeutic release. She very quickly followed their leads and too began channeling all of her hurts, pains, aggravations, tears and yes, even love here-and-there, into poetry. Anything that Tiffany was unable to find the courage to SPEAK easily poured out of her pen, generating years upon years of notebook upon notebook packed full of her soul. After sitting on all of these notebooks for far too long, she finally listened to the urgings of her family and friends and compiled some of her writings into her very first published book of poetry, “Get a Grip: Spilled Ink from my Soul,” released February 14, 2014. Get a Grip is a searing collection of 30 very grimy, very raw, very REAL poems, the majority of which are based on specific situations, trials and tribulations that she has had to endure throughout her life thus far. “This is so NOT your friendly, neighborhood, happy poetry,” she explains. “Life is not always cute. Some of the moments I chose to write about weren't cute. So I couldn't be cute in penning it. You may not be able to relate to EVERY poem in my book, but I guarantee you'll relate to AT LEAST one...”
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Muhjahid Woodson aka Muhjahid Qahhar Author/Activist/ Motivational Speaker Columnist Muhjahid Qahhar writes African-American fiction. He strives to speak the silences of the black community with a unique balance of street life, relationship issues, and suspense, wrapped in black cultural insight. Ambivalence: The Beginning, is his first novella from the upcoming series Ambivalence and No Instruction (Ambivalence Part 2) is his second offering to the literary community. Rising from a troubled childhood and adolescence, he uses personal and borrowed experiences to tell the justices and injustices of the penal system as it relates to Black life. Muhjahid often speaks out about the black condition in America in hopes of reaching and educating the youth, He has a column “It Was on My Mind” in BRPP Magazine, where he speaks on all types of relevant issues of today’s society. Muhjahid lives in Charlotte, N.C. with his lovely wife and their two beautiful children. 6
Jeanette Best-Charrette aka Sapphire J. Blue Author/Poet/Reviewer/ Radio Personality/ Columnist Born in the heights of the Civil Rights movement. A time when people of color realized that education was the one thing that no one could take away from you. At the age of 9, the teacher told my mom, I needed extra help in reading. My mom hired a tutor and the tutor’s advice to me was to read out loud to myself every day. She told me when you read out loud you correct yourself and realize your mistakes. A reader was discovered, this was the beginning of my love for reading. I started small with Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. In those days you received by mail a box set of 4 for the month. By the second day I had finished the box set of Nancy Drew. My mom then thought if she ordered the box set of the Hardy Boys this would keep me busy for the month. We received the books all 8 on Saturday. By Wednesday I was finished and my mind begging for more. The public library became my home. The librarians my friends I have been writing book reviews since the days of MySpace. I would just read a book and write a review on my Wall. When Facebook came along I started doing the same thing. The editor of Queen Size Magazine Tawana Blassingame contacted me and asked me would I like to write reviews and articles. My publishing career had begun. I have also written for NYAH Magazine, online magazine. I am currently writing book reviews and articles for BRPP Magazine. While writing book reviews for the magazines and dropping the occasional poem on Facebook, Kim Morrow (Author & Publisher &CEO of BlaqRayn Publishing Plus) asked me would I like to submit 2 poems to her new poetry book Dip In My Ink. The Poems “Simple Fuck” and “Why do I yearn.” The book is a success and Kim Morrow decided we must do another Erotic Poetry book and Red Shoes & Sex an Erotic Journey was born. I have 4 short stories. One 3 part story “The Dressing Room and an Erotic Thriller “Killer Red Shoes...” 7
Nathan Pearson aka The Legend Nathan P. Writer/Poet/NYC Host/Slam Winner/ Radio Personality Whether through his career in Social Services....or his presence on the spoken word scene, Nathan Pearson, AKA Nathan P. has found a way to uplift, motivate, inspire as well as entertain those he cross paths with. Beginning in 2000 when he became a Nuyorican Poet's Cafe Grand Slam finalist and slam host, his poetic travels have taken him to several college campuses, 3 poetic off Broadway productions, two chat books, 1 CD (Chalklines on Black Asphalt)...countless performances, and blessed to meet and perform with a Fort Knox vault of talented artists! In 2002, he became one of the founding members of a poetry troupe called “Machismo Redefined” alongside Eric Crow Draven, John Chance Avecedo and one other member. They performed in multiple venues throughout NYC. He can often be found hosting and performing @ NYCInspired Word and getting his Funk on on Friday nights @ Funkadelic Studios. He is the host and a member of the wonderful "Agents of Change": a poetry collective consisting of social workers, educators using poetry to make a difference in the community they work in. Along side founders Helena D. Lewis, Raul Rios and Eric Crow Draven, Nathan performs and all the proceeds the collect is donated to a worthy charity. In 2014, he joined Eric Crow Draven on his newest CD INK with a track called “These Hands” and the three of four original members of Machismo Redefined, Nathan Pearson, John Chance Avecedo and Eric Crow Draven came together for a performance 10 years in the making called “REDEFINED”. Nathan now host his own blog talk radio show with BRPP RADIO NETWORK on Tuesday nights with co-host Tina Wright called “Wine of Words Lounge” where he is HOT in his relationship series. There is no telling where poetry and coolness will take him from here! Friend him on Facebook under Nathan Pearson
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Tina Wright aka The Quiet Poet Author/Poet/ Performer Radio Personality/ Columnist Tina was born in Yonkers, NY and educated in the New York School System. After graduation from high school, she attended The College of Charleston, SC with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Communications. Tina returned to New York where she continued her education and received a degree in Communications. Tina has been writing for many years. Overall, nothing gives her more joy than writing at this point in her life. Tina lived in Florida for a number of years and was known locally as a writer of many gospel plays such as: Deception, Some Kind Of Christmas, What Is Easter All About, The Pageant, and Those People, just to name a few. Tina has a website dedicated to her poetry, where she clearly embraces the gift that is within her; the gift of poetry, the ability to tell a story through words. Tina has been writing plays for SoReal Productions with director Chris Scott since 1998. It is a life long commitment between the two of them to continue to bring words to life through the arts and continue to bless people with their talents. She released her first book of awesome erotic poetry “A Walk on the Other Side� along with the companion CD in July 2014. Tina has three wonderful children who support her in all of her endeavors, along with her loving family. 9
Mamas Makin Moves A monthly column by Tiffany D. Glover, a.k.a. Jayne Phlow, that spotlights mothers making moves in the community and in their careers. Now, not ALL of the women featured are MOTHERS, but they are STILL hot MAMAS in their own right and deserve their piece of the limelight as well. This column will do something that we, as women, should ALWAYS strive to do amongst ourselves, and that’s LOVE on each other. Multi-faceted! That’s the perfect word to describe this month’s Mama Makin’ Moves, Octavia Cohen, a.k.a. SoulSista’s Varieties. Not only is she a two-time published author, she also handcrafts her own custom-made jewelry AND is the director of her own non-profit organization that services senior citizens in rural communities. With everything she has going on, it’s a wonder that I was even able to catch up with her for this interview lol. But thank goodness she was able to give me just a touch of her time because this interview HERE was so worth it: ME: You wear many hats: poet/author, jewelry designer, advocate for senior citizens in your community. Let's talk about the poetry side first. How long have you been writing and who or what turned you on to the "power of the pen?" SOULSISTA’S: I started writing when I was a high school senior. I didn’t maintain writing though. I went hard in 2008 -- so about 6 years. ME: As a writer myself, I know how painful these writer's blocks can be. Is that what caused you to fall off for a little while or did life just take over, as it tends to do? SOULSISTA’S: I can say it was a little of both -- mostly life. I went through a lot in the beginning (2008), marital separation, moving, pursuing my education, etc. Those life experiences gave life to my poetry! ME: Amen to that! I'm a firm believer that the worst pains make for the best poetry lol. What's the most painfully therapeutic piece you've written and was it difficult to for you to write it? SOULSISTA’S: The one that I can remember is a piece about my children’s experience with sexual exposure and there was one about my cousin's battle with Sickle Cell Anemia. That's my truth and it drives me to air out these demons a.k.a. those things that most folk keep under wraps. Those experiences created the title for my new book. ME: Tell us the story that led to the piece concerning your children. Oh my God, I can't even begin to imagine having to write about something like that, especially when it hits THAT close to home! SOULSISTA’S: My children faced a monster -- sexual abuse -- by an uncle that' a compulsive liar. He said that he took "it" out because he had a hernia and had to readjust himself in the living room. My daughter was afraid to tell me about it. She kept in for over a year out of fear. She feared that I would not believe her. I was pissed all up and through because of my family's responses AND also because SC does not have a law that protects against exposure (in the home). ME: Lord have mercy smh! How are your children now? How have they been able to cope and how did you help them through this? SOULSISTA’S: My kids are good. This isn't something that we talk about a lot but I check on them. They had to endure a forensic exam; therapy; etc. They can't stand to see him to this day. If he comes to visit with 10 my grandmother, they come in from outside. Fortunately, the summer camp that they're attending offers
my grandmother, they come in from outside. Fortunately, the summer camp that they're attending offers therapy. ME: Final question and we'll move on: your uncle was NEVER reprimanded for his behavior? SOULSISTA’S: HELL NO! I filed a report, along with my cousins (other victims) and NOTHING happened! Because he lived with my grandmother at the time, she had to press charges (or something like that). My grandmother was about 83 at the time and couldn't handle that situation. My uncle is very conniving, so he used every excuse to stay. ME: That is absolutely ridiculous! I'm appalled that nothing was done to protect your children or your cousins. NO ONE should have to experience something like that but thank God they have you in their lives, who at least TRIED to right that wrong. SOULSISTA’S: I am still seeking justice though -- no doubt, slowly but surely. This says a lot about our legislature though...absolutely NOTHING has been done! ME: I know it wasn't, and still isn't, easy dealing with this situation. And on top of that you have a cousin battling Sickle Cell. How difficult was it to pen that particular piece? SOULSISTA’S: She passed away a year ago. It was rough writing on the 1st anniversary of her death. ME: Do you have any words of encouragement for anyone who may be living with a family member battling this disease? SOULSISTA’S: I would encourage patience and peace. Stay positive and keep praying. Get as much education as you can regarding the disease so you can better understand and empathize with the patient. ME: So as well as being a poet, you're also the author of 2 books of poetry. Tell us about each one and what led you to write them. SOULSISTA’S: “My Mind, Body and Soul” was inspired by the song “Body and Soul” by Anita Baker. The contents of this book are based on the issues in MY life. Each entity is mine (taking ownership). I had to really make it personal because I have “approval addiction”...lol. My new book is IN YOUR FACE truth -all about what I was afraid to say. I’m like, enough of that. If you don’t like it, oh well! I made it about me. There are many things I need to be free of, which is why the title of this next book will be “My Truth, My Journey, My Controversies.” ME: Nobody knows YOUR truth like YOU know it and that makes the release even better! Name your 3 favorite poems from each book and tell us why these are your top picks. SOULSISTA’S: From “Mind, Body and Soul”: Celebrate Me, Nakedness and Get Away. I picked Celebrate Me because it about celebrating the woman I am, my hair, my body...my acceptance. Nakedness is a favorite because once again I am accepting me, every curve, roll, lol, my complexion and desiring spending time with that someone special. I need to make a correction: My Day is a fave because it's something I've always wanted to do. Escape from it all while spending time with my special someone. 11
ME: There's nothing like loving like on yourself and knowing you deserve that love. Now what are your 3 faves from your 2nd book and why? SOULSISTA’S: I have a piece that I wrote about my deceased cousin called I Still Say It. I love to reminisce about life and I try to pay tribute to the people who made a difference in my life. Another called Our Relationship is about my relationship with the Creator and how much it's developed over time. My spirituality is very important to me. My last fave is called Big Ol'. It's a bold look at what our ancestors endured and was inspired by the song by Wale called Clappers. ME: YEEESSSSS! I remember hearing you perform Big Ol' on a radio show last year and I INSTANTLY fell in love with it! Do mind blessing us with just a tee tee of it right here? SOULSISTA’S: Sure! Shake that/Take that/Come here girl let me smack that/Make it clap/Make it bounce/Let me tap that/Turn around and bend over/Make it rain on it/Slide down that pole/lookin' at the BIG OL'/Don't you know that your GREAT, GREAT, GREAT, GREAT, GREAT GRANDMOMA was told those similar lines/Stood in front of stranger/Showin' her behind to the highest bidder on auction blocks with live stock and other animals/treated with disrespect and neglect/Shipped off to a distant and strange land where the white man took advantage of that BIG OL'/She's been bought with a price not enough/not even gold was worthy for this brown beauty that was ripped of her sanity/stripped down below humanity/her precious treasure taken/Against her will/so she laid there still/against her will/or be killed/So keep flashin dem dollas/makin it rain/makin' da booty clap/think about those women who were raped/Those masters lookin' at our ancestors'/BIG OL'. And there it is. ME: I love this! It speaks volumes to the way we as women have been represented in such a negative light, mainly through music videos and the inundation of reality TV. What type of feedback have you received from this piece? SOULSISTA’S: Thank you! I received a lot of positive feedback, especially after reading it on that talk show and after posting on Facebook! ME: And not only are you a poet and author, you also handcraft your own jewelry line. Tell us about that. SOULSISTA’S: My jewelry line started in March 2011! I am proud to say that this vision was given to me by the Creator. I love different and unique things because it’s rare and I've always gone against the grain when it comes to damn near everything! I love boldness and my jewelry is a statement of boldness and confidence. There is not one alike...just like a fingerprint! I paint wood jewelry -- earrings, bangles, necklaces. I have yet to dabble with rings. They’re coming soon though! ME: I've seen your pieces and they're absolutely beautiful! How do you come up with your designs for each one? SOULSISTA’S: Some designs are given in a vision and then they're some that my customers choose the color scheme and just tell me to "do my thang." And they 're pleased every time. So far, I have had no complaints. 12
ME: And if all of THIS isn't enough, you're also an advocate for the elderly in your community! Tell us about your program and how that got started. SOULSISTA’S: YOWZERS! Yes Yes! I have a nonprofit in our community but I don't put any location boundaries on who we serve. We are located in Cross, SC and the agency is called COHEN Outreach Services. COHEN is my last name but it is also an acronym for Creating Opportunities to Help Enhance our Neighborhoods--once again given by the Creator. We started the paperwork in 2011, which was a VERY busy year for me. The book was published, my jewelry line started, AND the nonprofit became known by the state then. Cross, as well as the surrounding communities, are very rural and we have needs. We are at least 30 minutes from everything and we need resources in our area. I've always read in magazines such as Essence and Ebony about agencies for African Americans in urban areas but not here -- not even Charleston at the time. So I wanted to create some programs that would give our seniors AND even the youth some activities. My grandmother inspired the senior program. She's my neighbor and is often bored. I don’t want my seniors to EVER feel forgotten. My whole mission is to spoil the HELL out of' em. I love them so much and I have gained so much wisdom from them. ME: I absolutely love it! Sadly our seniors tend to be pushed to the wayside once everyone gets busy conducting their own lives. What are some of the resources and programs that have been provided for them so far and are you looking to add any others? SOULSISTA’S: I have given a wealth of knowledge when it comes to natural healing and foods. I want to bring more programs and hopefully partner with some agencies to better inform our seniors. I have/had a weekly activity program to spoil them with lunch, arts and crafts, makeovers, fitness, Bible study, socializing, games, discussions, etc. I had to pause for the cause because I am in the process of becoming a homeowner and I had to continue my education. We will resume soon! ME: What advice would you give to adults who are now taking care of their elderly parents and are looking for easy ways to keep them active? SOULSISTA’S: When it comes to taking care of elderly parents, I would advise that they have a lot of patience, love and faith. I would also advise activities that encourage brain function such as puzzles, Lego’s, writing a journal, reading and visitors, as well as physical activities such as walking, chair exercises and very light weight lifting such as using things like canned goods. ME: Now before we close, if our readers want to contact you, whether for your books, your jewelry or information on your senior services, how can they reach you?
SOULSISTA’S: My phone number is 8436080560. My book “My Mind, Body and Soul” is on Amazon's website as a paperback book and as an e-book. My jewelry line is listed on Facebook as SoulSista4Sho Creations. The book is also on Facebook as “My Mind, Body and Soul.” The nonprofit is on Facebook as COHEN OUTREACH services. ME: Awesome! Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to sit down and chat with me. We look forward to seeing TONS more good things from you! SOULSISTA’S: I enjoyed this to the fullest! It was indeed a pleasure doing this with and for you!
Interview by Jayne Phlow 13
OCTAVIA COHEN
SISTA SOLDIER’S VARIETIES 14
Up
You Mighty Race Welcome To Babylon A nationwide march on Washington, D.C. to end police brutality? What shall come of it? Predictable angry responses against city, state and federal government failure to protect the lives of innocent Afrikan-American men? (Even when guilty of crimes, there is also a question of excessive force). Predictable media coverage of civil unrest? Predictable filing of civil rights violations against local prosecutors who are unwilling to indict police officers who, in the minds of most white Americans are simply doing their jobs? Predictable calming rhetoric from Black political and religious leaders far removed from the reality of the average individual Black life? All of this plays out as if it were a script because of the overall fear of placing the conversation in its proper context. That America’s Black multitude have never been fully liberated and that the innate violent aggression of while American men continues to wage war against Black men- regardless of class (we’ll include our Hispanic brethren as well). That America has a god that endorses its ill-gotten dominion. It is in this sense of political, economic and military oppression, that we refer to this social construct as a modern-day Babylon. Welcome- those of you who seem forgetful of this nation’s history. Of course, my condolences are sent to the families of Eric Garner, Michael Brown and the hundreds of victims who were never named in headlines (thousands, if we count the previous decade). Yet, if the horror in Rwanda can be forgotten (1994-recent history)- so too will this outrage- what then? We can endlessly state the problembut usually the proposed solutions don’t fully address a long-term solution. They say the pen is mightier than the sword. That the best way to predict the future is to write it. Yet, to understand what our common enemy plans for the future, you have to read it. You want evidence (that because of a technicality, might be inadmissible)? A document began to circulate throughout Europe during the 1700’s entitled PROTOCOLS OF THE LEARNED ELDERS OF ZION (more than likely the blueprint for the American and French Revolutions). I will not fall into the rhetorical abyss of conspiracy theorists – so let us use the lesser used fraternity name of The Priory of Sion- the origin of the European Renaissance and what is called the 18th century Enlightenment.
century Enlightenment. Saying more might confuse the reader- but perhaps one more clue might assist in comprehending the infrastructure and hierarchy beyond political offices- “The Age Of Reason” is informed by ‘The Luciferian Doctrine’. Popular novels and movies would have us believe that these ‘Freethinkers’ are heroes of the people because of their opposition the to the Catholic Church- but they are 2 sides of the same coinonly that the church has outlived its usefulness to them. It does not give them a greater sense of compassion for us and also desires our servitude to them. They use mass media when its serves their purposes as a form of peer pressure. They decide which books should or shouldn’t be used in school curriculum (even at the university level). They wish to replace the God and goddess of the Old World (Afrika) with their own gods- the ‘Learned Elders’- the ‘Enlightened Ones’- these terms might sound obscure until I use a word many of you have become familiar with- Illuminati. Welcome to Babylon. Protest and march if you will. Execute kamikaze missions against police if you will. Yet, the wisest course (long-term) is to write an alternate future than the one they have planned for us. I’m not foolish enough to outline that plan here. Yet, I will say this- as a people, we’ve come this far by faith and our kings and queens are driven by a love for our people. Rebel against the government and its laws and law enforcers if you wishour enemies believe we lack the sophistication to reform our temples and to raise gods from the dead (our spirits and minds from their enslaved state). Until we do, Babylon reigns and these devils will go unchallengedsimply because many so-called “enlightened” brothers and sisters are convinced by their professors that God no longer exists. Somebody, somewhere, upon reading this, will suggest that I’m influenced by Christian theology with Jesus at the center of my worldview. Let me say that before Jesus (even before the Pharaohs), there was the Black God Osiris, after Jesus, there is Rastafari (Black God). What is missing from male-dominated religious hierarchies is our Black Mother Goddess who the original Babylonians tried to exclude from the books. As a symbol, She is the key to empowering and liberating Black women (especially in their churches they must challenge their pastors and ministers and preachers). This would be revolutionary15
Suggest to your children not to walk the streets alone and to make sure their friends are true friends. To value their lives enough to take advantage of opportunities made available to them. Most importantly, their attitudes and behavior (and this applies to me as well), must reflect that of the children of God we claim to be. We are at war- and if we wish to save our children, they must be made aware of how their enemies seek to weaken them. How can we complain about white racist police officers attacking young and older Black men- when we fall victim to the widespread self-hatred that has us attacking and killing each other? The streets of this modern-day Babylon are not safe. Our children might scoff at the idea of adult supervision- so supervise from a safe distance- just close enough o protect them by any means necessary. All Black children are our children, but do we love them enough to set aside our petty differences to save them?
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There Lies Story~! There lies story~! of beautiful woman that was determine to see what life was truly all about she had to reach out to world' See everything was not as is was to appear to be she had those moments when she cried she at some point had to adjust there was time she was almost ready to throw in the towel" Her heart was torn like many others she find her way back taking time to herself from this she found and knew she had her self Worth" back along the way she never lost lost" How many times she stayed up looking around saying it was time for much needed change but for her she didn't know where to start at first until she went down her knees and begin to pray" She carried with her other people burdens took a hold of her sending her back in the dark place some things you just can't fix you sure can let go of it" Have you look into her lately have you see she got wrapped up into another day of re-adjustments causing things to come to haunt her find out nothing didn't change at all except for the YEARS" Whole time her beauty stayed in tact because she prayed God had this he wouldn't allow harm to come towards his creation no more"
No more remorse to feel bad to let go for those that did harm to her even as she was guided too to even pray for for the sins just wanted start over" Eyes wide open soul meant to love deep goes the spirit willing to commit she was human being that to be saved delivered" She was one of many had a story to be told Beauty before you glows she found her way back"
He seen she had this tarnish soul that needed to be cleansed he knew she was this soul that was work in process even as she still continued on to pray" Clouded thoughts when she had given up had to finally sit there willing given herself to higher power felt so good for inside she felt it"
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SAPPHIRE J. BLUE TALKS FASHION & HANDBAGS WITH MR. WILBUR PACK JR. Wilbur Pack, Jr. stands by his commitment to provide BOLD, CLASSIC & MODERN designs for today’s woman. The fashion design veteran began his journey in 1998 when he introduced SK WiLBUR, a contemporary line of clothes for the working woman. Over the last two years, Pack set his sights on creating better wardrobe options for the full figured fashionista. He’s now urging all women to, “Get Your Purse ON” as his evolution continues with his line of chic and colorific handbags. Classic styles comprise the collection. Bold colors, standout patterns and metal hardware lend an artistic elegance. Affordably priced and rendered in natural fabrics and leather, the purses are sure to be a hit at retail. Pack’s work has received numerous accolades. He was chosen by Supima Cotton as one of the select participants in their 2008 Runway Challenge and received much fanfare for his contributed piece, an elegantly constructed denim evening gown. The designer counts R&B music legend Patti LaBelle and actress/entertainer Lonette McKee as clients. He has been profiled for fashion trade publications such as WWD, featured on E! Entertainment Television's Fashion File and has also been included in several daily newspapers and web sites across the country, from The Los Angeles Times to NYPost.com. Most recently Pack was profiled for JET magazine was a featured competitor on the fashion design reality series 24 Hour Catwalk that aired on Lifetime. A true believer in giving back, Pack recently launched a successful crowd funding campaign on Indiegogo.com where a portion of the monies were donated to The HOPE Program - a non-profit organization dedicated to providing vocational, educational, and social service assistance to New Yorkers who are in need of a job. He has also supported the MacDella Cooper Foundation which aims to build a boarding school for orphaned children in Liberia by raffling off one of his coveted pieces. Pack studied business management at Baruch College and sharpened his fashion acumen at the Fashion Institute of Technology. He has also apprenticed with Cynthia Rowley and Ralph Rucci.
CEO/Designer Wilbur Pack Jr. 18
1.What does fashion creating mean to you? On Saturday, May 9, 2009, I wrote on my blog iamfabulous-ablackfashiondudesodyssey.blogspot.com “Fashion is the air I breathe, the food I eat and the language speak.” Even now in 2014, creating fashion continues to have the same impact on me. It really is my first love. 2.When did you know fashion was something you wanted to pursue? I came to fashion design reluctantly. When I was a kid, I had no idea that fashion design as a career even existed. That was so far outside my realm of understanding. No one around me talked about fashion design. Everybody wanted to pursue careers in finance, medicine or law. It was not until I became a young man and started reading Vogue magazine regularly that I understood that this galaxy of fashion was real. I really wanted to be a part of it, but didn’t think it was a viable career option. So I tried ignoring the call for several years. Although my sewing skills were awful at best, I found my way to present my first women’s collection to friends and family in 1997. In retrospect, my aesthetic needed a lot of refining, but I had been bitten by the fashion design bug and there was no turning back. 3.I noticed you used to design for Full Figured Fashions – What made you switch over to handbags? By the time I made the switch to design for the curvy woman, I had many years of experience designing for “straight-sized” women. But I’d never achieved a level of financial success that would allow me to support myself. I had learned that even with great press and media coverage, it doesn’t guarantee sales. Many curvy women suggested that my design aesthetic would be well-received by that market because there was such a lack of fashionable options for them. So I made the decision to start designing for full figured women exclusively. I received lots of compliments on my designs, but I was not supported financially by the curvy customer and I was not supported by the editors-in-chief of the lifestyle/fashion magazines that spoke to the full-figured women. I was at my lowest point and so deep in debt that I was almost ready to give up on my dream. It was my sister who then offered to send me to a one day handbag workshop and I took it as a sign. 4.You Handbags are bright colors that pop, even the black looks bold. Tell us how you choose you colors and fabrics? I have been designing and handcrafting bags exclusively for over a year now. And there has been some trial and error. But now it’s really about durability and timelessness. There is nothing gimmicky about my designs. They’re clean and modern and women are attracted to that. It’s not about having the latest IT bag, but about having a bag that you go to season after season. I love color and never really pay attention to color trends, but when I go with my gut, women respond positively. 5.Clothes and now handbags what is next for Wilbur Pack Jr. and SK Wilbur? I used to try to forecast my future. Most financial advisers want you to have your business plan mapped out five years out. But I find that taking it season by season creates less anxiety and it works for me. For Fall 2014, I was inspired by movement and jazz music and I can’t wait to unveil the collection later in September. And Spring 2015 is more about joy and all the fun things that life has to offer. 6.Where can we purchase your bags? SK WILBUR bags are available for purchase on skwilbur.com and at The Brownstone on 125th Street and Only Hearts on Columbus Avenue - both in NYC. 7.How can we reach you to get great deals? To be privy to my flash sales, you really should follow me on Instagram and Twitter. My handle is @skwilbur. I always post to my Facebook business page – SK WILBUR. And you can also sign up at www.skwilbur.com for my email blasts. I am super accessible. 19
8.If you have a funny story about fashion - or handbags please share. I am in the process of writing my memoir and will give full disclosure at that time. But there are a lot of interesting tales on my blog www.iamfabulous-ablackfashiondudesodyssey.blogpsot.com until then.
Thank you again for sharing your talent. Interview by Sapphire J. Blue
SK WILBUR
WWW.SKWILBUR.COM 20
The Bavarlee Bernstein Award Nominated Poet and Author Anthony Arnold Street Life Another Day in the life Survival Of the fittest We Do what we can Just To live another day Children Playing, screaming Tapping Fire hydrants Mothers Crying Another Child gone Street life Homeless On the street Looking For a nickel, for a dime People Walk by, noses in the air Not Knowing that once he was just like them Ladies Of the night, doin the do Streetwalkers Trying to make it right No One knows at night when she goes home She Has mouths to feed Street Life Pimps And pushers, crack heads all around Yo man I’ll suck you off for a rock Respectable People they used to be Getting Hooked is a bitch Gotta get yours before they get theirs By Any means necessary Sometimes you don’t make it Sometimes either do they Street life Another Day in the life Survival Of the fittest We Do what we can Just To live another day 21
IT WAS ON MY MIND “They were very well built, with very handsome bodies and very good faces...They do not carry arms or know them....They should be good servants..." This is what Columbus said upon his encounter with the Taino indians. THIS IS WHAT I THINK ABOUT WHEN I SEE THE DOMINICANS WHO MOVED INTO A HOUSE ACROSS THE STREET...they don't speak to me. Yet they have ME in them. Dominicans, Puerto Ricans and others come from the Taino people. Speaking of the Tainos, THEY ARE PRETTY MUCH EXTINCT. Victims of the Spaniards. Those who weren't killed were assimilated. Their population was drastically reduced...then the Spaniards brought in the Africans. There is the mix; Tainos, Spaniards and Africans. Somehow many of them still choose to dislike US; the African side.
I mean, I understand but I don't understand, in 2015. Dominicans, Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, Brazilians (though many Brazilians speak Portuguese), and others, while connected by their conqueror's language, have the nerve to look down on one another. The European has applied the same tactics all over the world to create division among darker people. The only thing that separates them is a boat stop, and the people steering the boat. How can they love and want to be like the European (who decimated their ancestors), side while looking down on the native, Taino (or another tribe), side in their fellow brethren? Man, we've all been duped. This is how a handful of people rule the world, by keeping us divided. You would be hard pressed to find a Native Taino today. THEY HAVE EITHER BEEN KILLED OFF or had their blood mixed so much they have actually become another race...AS A WHOLE. Well, there have been at least 500 nations of Indians this has happened to. Don't believe me, ask Kevin Costner, he did a Roots length documentary on the subject. (See 500 Nations-most libraries keep the DVD collection on hand) IT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND. All of us have lost our language, culture, history, religion; everything that made us what God intended for us to be...Gone. And we have the nerve to look at and treat one another like enemies. Let's get it together folks!
Muhjahid Qahhar
IT WAS ON MY MIND 22
BY AUTHOR ELLA D. FLEMING With no memory of what happened, Brenda is sentenced to fifteen years in a psychiatric hospital for murdering her husband Ray and her Pastor, Reverend Benjamin. Now face to face with the first lady of the church she discovers that an old wives tale she was told about herself growing up in Charleston, SC with her grand-mother, Momma Greene, has come true. Reflecting on her life, she is bound by guilt and shame as she struggles to deal with straying away from her Christian upbringing, the loss of her mother, her baby and the one man who truly loved her...Dr. James Powers...
AVAILABLE THROUGH ALL ONLINE RETAILERS
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J. Blue Book Reviews A Sideline Hoe Author: Le’Vonne 4 ½ Sapphires Author Le’Vonne takes on a passionate and spunky journey through the life, of seems like someone you know Kami. Kami has it all and needs nothing form anyone but Deon. Deon has a spate life and his own “situation”. This well paced book shares with us love, lust and drama. Author Le’Vonne gives us some really great scenes of drama. Author Le’Vonne is a new author to watch for. Her second novel travels on the edge of sexy, love hate commitment and loyalty. Guest what – there is a Part 2.. The saga continues.
A Black Man’s Pain Author: Teresa Browning 4 1/2 Sapphires Ervin is what we call a good man. Author Teresa Browning’s compelling tale of how a good man rises from some difficult circumstances is good. This tender story of love and acceptance brings you emotional highs and lows. We learn from his first breath and his first love how life doesn’t always deal you a good hand. This gratifyingly descriptive story shows us life isn’t easy but you can make the best of it and in the end conquer, and find your dreams. I am looking forward to more by this author.
Sinful Secrets Author: M’Hogany 4 ½ Sapphire Symone has it all and feels she doesn’t need a man to complete her. Her family feels otherwise, Her mother is always try to push some man on her. The problem is a lot of times your mother doesn’t always know best. As we read this beautifully blended story of characters, we learn about friendship. We ask our self-do you betray your job for a friend? The suspense of the story plot is refreshing and different. The imaginative twist in the story will take you for a loop. Author M’Hogany has given us something to think about in life and dating. Maybe life isn’t as perfect as we try to make it.
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KRISTI “BLACK SAPPHIRE� McGEE POETRY
Plans You were never part of the plan A piece of the many mysteries of life Like grains of sand Can't quite grip the understanding My heart betrayed me and its become demanding Insisting I accept what you offer Feels like a king's ransom and I'm a pauper You say I can have the moon and stars That this world and all its beauty is ours Hand in hand we'll walk in the rain Love carrying us higher than any plane Your words are sweeter than honey Something you'll never be able to buy with money This connection we have is so unreal Despite the miles it stays strong, but here's the deal My mind is strong I'm a quick study, never takes me long To see what's perfectly clear And to be brutally honest dear My heart is fragile I keep it in a velvet satchel Hoping for no bumps nor scratch Or worse it gets trashed I'm sure one day I'll trust you Until then put on your walking shoes We've got a path to travel So let's kick gravel See where this leads Never commit evil deeds Only feeling beautiful skies Never will we lie On the wings of a dove Let's explore this love... 25
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Writer, Author, Poet, Creator and Executive Producer Born and raised in Brooklyn, East New York, Eric has seen firsthand the difference between moving a product and becoming the product. Eric has spent the last few years of his life becoming the product. In 2002, he took his pen and his love for poetry seriously and joins a poetry troupe called “Machismo Redefined”. He became one of the founding members alongside John "Chance" Acevedo and the legend Nathan P, performing at multiple poetry venues including the world-famous Nuyorican Poets Café. He has published and distributed his first poetry book and soundtrack entitled “Blank Pages”. In 2003, he got the chance of a lifetime to perform a poem that he co-written with his friend, Sean Pamp for the NBA All-Star game on ESPN. In 2008, he published his second poetry book entitled “Windows to my Past”. In 2009, Eric released his third poetry book entitled “Sinning on my way to Church”. In 2012, Eric has set forth his fourth poetry book "The Search for Substance"; and he has added the title of Creator and Executive Producer with the creation of his original 13 episode documentary series POETRY TV presents "THE CIPHER", and he is currently filming for his next documentary POETRY TV presents "She is... " In June of 2012 after featuring @ Verses (At the Nuyorican Poets Café in NYC) the host and creator HBO Def Poetry Jam star Helena D Lewis and the founder of Latinos-NYC Raul Rios said Eric's performance made them come up with an idea of creating a group made up of social service providers who are also dynamic poets. This group is called the AGENTS Of CHANGE and each show is dedicated to a worthy charity and all of the proceeds from the show goes towards that charity. Along side with the legend Nathan P, and 1 or 2 guest performers who are also in the social service field they have yet to slow down. Released “INK” his first CD in over a decade on April 29, 2014! Began his 2nd National COVERED IN INK Poetry Tour in May 2014. Crow continues to perform in venues throughout the country and with his eyes on tomorrow, his pen spilling daily compelling quotes on his Facebook page and a fifth poetry book in the works. ..His future is merely a few words away. 27
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“INK” RELEASE PARTY
ERIC CROW AND NATHAN P.
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2014 National Poetry Awards
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Kim: You had a great artistic year in 2014. At the very beginning of the year, what were you expectations for 2014, if you had any, and did you meet those expectations? Crow: In the shadow of a successful 2013 tour and the unforeseen death of my brother D.O.C, my uncle and a friend of mine all within six weeks, I didn’t have any plans for 2014. After losing so much at the end of 2013 I had no desire to continue being an artist. Yet 2014 had a heart and mind of its own, it felt as if the year was determined to push me as a artist despite my personal challenges. I look back on the year and I know it was one of the most successful years I’ve had in my career.
Kim: You released "INK" the title track of your most recent CD in early April 2014 and the response to the song was powerful. How did that make you feel as an artist? Crow: I was and still am blown away by the listener’s response; I had no clue that so many people would connect with this song. I feel the radio stations had a lot to do with that. I issued the song out to multiple online radio hosts. Those amazing hosts got behind the song and played it so much that the listeners began to recognize it. Those listeners began picking their favorite lines from the song and posting them up as quotes on their social media pages. I had no idea I would receive that kind of support and appreciation. 33
Kim: Did the release of that song and the entire CD lead to anything unexpected? Crow: It felt as if my relationship with my supporters got deeper. People were used to seeing me post a daily quote on social media, or the occasional interview I would do online. Yet the CD gave people a chance to hear me in a light previously unseen. People began to connect a voice and passion to my words and they responded. I began to get request all over the country for my CD; that had a positive impact on the National Poetry Award (NPA) nominations and my tour. I actually began giving away, the song and the entire CD to people who supported the NPA nominations and voted for me. The supporters went above and beyond anything I could’ve imagined. I ended up doing a live CD release party online as a way of saying thank you to everyone for their support. There were people all over the country that didn’t make it to NYC to attend the listening/ release part, so doing one online to ensure the maximum number of people would have the chance to hear the CD was the least I could do. Kim: You got a few nominations in 2014 that led to you winning the NPA's Poetry Author of the Year Award. Dude, what was that like for you? Crow: This was the first time as an artist I was nominated for any form of recognition. It was a truly humbling experience. The feeling that my peers and the people who read my writing felt I was worthy of being nominated for the Spokenword Artist of the Year and the Poetry Author of the Year still moves me. Words cannot describe the impact the nominations and then actually winning the Poetry Author of the Year award has on me. I feel received and appreciated and honored and humbled; grateful that so many people see something in me. I come from a place where people are quick to hurt you and to try to knock you down. So being engulfed by that kind of love is overwhelming, especially while dealing with the absence of my brother. My acceptance speech was directed at the supporters and everyone who voted for me. I know if it wasn’t for their votes and their connection to my words, I would not have been nominated nor would I have returned to NYC an actual award winner. 34
Kim: You also had some personal challenges in late 2013. How did this affect you as an artist and your work in 2014? Crow: After losing my uncle, then my brother and then a friend of mine all within six (6) weeks of each other, I was devastated. I felt the kind of empty that creates poor decisions and even worst actions. I ended up pouring my heart out with my first CD in over a decade entitled INK and touring for a good chunk of the year. It kept me from paying too much attention to the overwhelming sadness that I will be dealing with for the rest of my life.. Kim: Tell us, what motivates and inspires you? Who motivates and inspires you? Crow: I am inspired by the beautiful tragedy we call life. There are so many amazing things that happen to us and we might over look them because we are overwhelmed with surviving. My daughters, they are my greatest inspiration and motivators. They are growing up so fast and the world will not wait for me to become a millionaire before their needs are met. Their presence reminds me to keep trying, to keep pushing and the fact that failing is part of the ladder to success. I can get back up whenever I am ready. My mom, she’s been through so many things in this life. I know a little of what she’s been through and the fact that she survived that life tells me as long as I can feel my legs I can make a moves. I am also motivated by the lost of my brother and my father. It has forced me to look at my health and to do everything I can do to be around for my daughters. My father died at the age of 46, my brother died at age of 40. No one can ignore GOD when he calls you home but I can work on not leaving so soon and to creating an imprint that will motivate and inspire my daughters long after I am gone. 35
Kim: How did it feel to be back in the studio laying down tracks after over a decade? Crow: I didn’t have time to think about being in the studio. Writing my brothers obituary didn’t seem like it was enough. For everything that he meant to me just putting some words down about his life felt incomplete. So I went in the studio and I those words met music and I could hear the empty in my brother’s absence. I had no plans to do a whole CD, but it felt right being back there. It felt like that was where I was supposed to be. I didn’t want to write any more after he passed away, but once I was in the studio I felt as if I was being told this is where I was to put my pain. So I did and INK was born. Kim: You have worked with some tremendously talented artist throughout your career and several of them were featured on "INK". Would you like to work with them again if the chance presented itself? Crow: I have engaged so many talented artists throughout my career; I am looking forward to working with everyone again in some capacity or another. The people I have engaged have been so power as it relates to their talent but even more powerful as per whom they are as human beings. Being creative is our common bond, but they have taught me so much by their compassion. 2014 was a tough emotional year for me and their support was and still is priceless. I’m not sure I would’ve made it through the year without them. Kim: You have just about covered the U.S. in your INK while touring. What is touring like for you and if giving the opportunity, would you tour oversees? Crow: I am excited every chance I get to go to a city outside of my own. To see the poetry scene and the impact this genre of art has on the people who come out to the events and engage with the artists. I get to hear amazing stories about the places I am visiting, the people; the customs. I get an education on what people who have lived in these places had to endure to survive and the sacrifices they made to ensure the freedoms I have today are accessible. To travel roads once forbidden and to engage with different people and to have the things we have in common revealed. It’s a humbling experience. I have spoken to a few promoters in Switzerland, Africa and London. I would love to turn these possibilities into realities. My life-long photographer is talking to me about getting me to Cuba for a photo shoot. I’m going to keep my faith and keep striving and let every positive move me according to a higher objective. 36
Kim: What has Eric "Crow" Draven got cooking in the lab? Crow: At the moment I am focusing on a new CD, the completion of my 5th poetry book, and possibly another tour for 2015. If things go well I might release one of two documentaries I’ve been working on for the last two years. But most importantly I want to be around to watch my daughters grow up and become beautiful and productive women. Shoutouts: Crow: I have engaged too many people during this journey to name only a few names. But I would say I want to thank my higher power for this gift and placing among kind souls that look into mine and saw something worth connecting with. Everyone who has ever read my quotes and found value in something I had to say. To everyone who supported the National Poetry Awards ((NPA) nominations and voted for me. Everyone who supports my writing, you purchased one or more of my books has great meaning. Every promoter/ host who has coordinated with me and ensure I made it to their city watch me as I gave my all on stage, and everyone who came out and spent their hard earned money to see me perform. To every online host/ promoter/ personality that has interviewed me, played my songs, made announcements about events and or shows I was featured in. Everyone who gave their talent to express the emotion and message of my first CD in over 10 years INK, I cannot thank you enough. Last but not least to the people who believe in me, this flawed canvas finds purpose through your eyes... Thank you, sincerely yours - Eric “Crow” Draven…
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THE EPITOME OF HE I love you too much to give you up... I need you too much to let you go... I want you too much to relinquish the fantasy... You're the walking, talking, breathing phantom that has now become my reality...the epitome of he
The explosion that shook my mind and took my heart, tore lies and misconceptions apart, sowing seeds that start to sprout out of the wasted earth that was my life...causing me to give birth to directions and conclusions born from the stress and strife of the knife's edge...you pulled me from that ledge of depression and despair from which I was about to jump as the ink of your care began to pump through my veins, repairing the hurt and healing the pains... I love you too much to give you up... I need you too much to let you go... I want you too much to relinquish the fantasy... You're the walking, talking, breathing phantom that has now become my reality...the epitome of he Now the table turns...it is your wick that burns low and yearns to be replenished...your fire diminished to a spark that threatens to be extinguished but the ink you spilled to secure my rescue still thrives in my veins and is yet available to you...to do what only the power of the written word can do...supply and revive you until your flame burst forth bright as the sun...weaving the same spell you spun to capture me...the ink stain of love will rapture thee...setting you free from the shackles that bind and hope to imprison your heart and mind... I love you too much to give you up... I need you too much to let you go... I want you too much to relinquish the fantasy... You're the walking, talking, breathing phantom that has now become my reality...the epitome of he You will be whole again...this much I decree...you will live your life to its entirety...for no demon or ailment can separate the three...I speak it in absolute certainty because for me you are the Epitome of He! Wordetry 39