Date: 02/05/2013
Writer’s Name: Ornitha Danielle
Title: Where Are You?
                                           
A lot of things run wildly throughout my mind - feelings of confusion, tiredness and mental abandonment. Only to know that I’ve called out to you with little to no response; my heart is longing to feel your love near me. My mind is full of trouble, as this world we live in becomes more and more chaotic. There are talks of the New World Order -everything becoming one. Standing on the wall looking as the world crumbles and falls. So much is happening and people don’t seem to mind at least one bit. As these tears that I try to hold back are in a race to see who will hit the floor first, there are many other people wondering the same thing, and asking where are you?

The love that you have for us as your children runs deeper than we can ever imagine, but we return much less than what you give.  Yet you still bless us one by one, it’s just those times when things don’t make since, I’m still looking around asking, where are you?

My logic knows what’s been said to me many times before, that you’re always with me. I feel so far away from your presence when I’m in distress. I can barely catch my breath. I don’t understand, why, why, why, why seeming how much time is flying bye.  The prayers I send you, somehow seems to be hitting the ceiling, and hitting me on the top of my head. I pray for strength, joy, peace and rest. Never looking for material things, I just want to be closer to you than ever before, as close as Heaven’s door.

My heart is bleeding and crying for the nations, the children are leaders of tomorrow. We need you right now, Father can you hear me? I’m listening for your voice and your people need you too. Where are you?  Swollen eyes, stopped up nose, head is pounding like drummer beating his drums. What do I need to do to hear a word from you? Reading my bible to know more of you, I want to feel your touch; all we need is just one touch. If you would just touch me, I know that my life will be changed forever.  Father, please hear my plea as I seek your face for direction in what I must do next. I have tried everything, sometimes nothing seems to work for me. What I thought that I knew that’s not it, anymore I seem to be losing it, father where are you? I need answers to all of what is going on around me and in this world, where are you? I know you hear me, but why am I not hearing you? Where are you? I love you, I adore you, you are the head of my life. What else can I do to be closer to you? Where are you?

Date:  January 29, 2013
Name:  Nanette Buchanan
Title: There’s a Thorn in Social Media

Any of us who grew up using the library, resource books from home and in our schools, can find both the pros and cons in the world created by Social Media and the infamous web.  The speed of technology, the worldwide connections, its resources and rapid growth are overwhelming when compared to the methods we used thirty to forty years ago.  However, with the advantages we must become more responsible in our homes, schools and jobs.  Social Media has invaded our lives and exposed us to the world, both good and bad. As we browse the internet there are many websites that connect us to others.  Fulfilling our needs, we can find any and everything – from business and education to resources, social networking, and a list that has no limit. As we satisfy our needs we often forget that any and all our information of that which we provide becomes available to others.  

The average individual who enters this world or is curious may find just by putting their name in the Google browser there is basic information about them on the internet.  They don’t have to have a website. Simply putting in the name, the city or job they hold you can find information on a person.  Employers use this method for prospective employees and it has also been used to check potential renters or home owners.  How one uses the internet can have an impact on how they are evaluated by others.  Salaries, location, history, who you’ve lived with, where you’ve work and the ability to zoom in on your home and neighborhood is all on the internet.  Your accounts can be searched, sought and hacked.  Your safety can be jeopardized without you being a “Social Media Junkie.”

The internet has brought shopping into the homes of many. For merchants it’s an opportunity to put products in the homes of their consumers who many not venture to the store.  There are many merchants who don’t have a physical location and the web is their platform for retail sales.  Advertisements, coupons, discounts and more are extended to the buyer, and most take advantage of what is offered daily.  Payments can be made directly, a convenience but with each purchase there is the possibility of exposing yourself to the hackers that lurk through the waves of the internet.  Any public information is available to them, but with your purchase so is your credit information.  Yes, every online merchant vows they don’t sell or distribute your information but how else do we receive those promotional ads from others.  The pop-ups that appear have found our likes and make offers for us to view their products.  This is all done through the sharing of our purchases and our information.  From a consumer’s point of view, purchasing through the sites of merchants brings joy and pain.  One has the luxury of buying from their home, avoiding traffic on the roads and in the stores, getting discounts not offered in the stores, the excitement of the delivery.  On the other hand there is the missed delivery dates, not being able to touch or inspect the purchase before buying and yes, the exposure of your personal information on the web.

Many have found business opportunities and employment on the internet.  There are search engines that will direct jobs to your e-mail address.  You can post your resume’ and the employer can view it and contact you with a job offer.  Entrepreneurs can build a business and reach thousands through social media exposure.  Creating a website, joining media groups, and attaching links a new business can advance.  One can learn by networking and advance themselves in their business by connecting to a network of people in the same business.  A relationship can be built with clientele, something that is hardly done when one goes to the store to purchase. 

Entrepreneurs can send out information to the masses, to those they don’t know and would never reach using snail mail or promotion tactics from years ago.  However, just as the consumer has to worry about the negatives of the web so does the person who wishes to build their business through web use and networking.  Again, one has to fish through the scams and fraudulent websites, worry about being hacked and the bogus postings made in their name.  The spam, the constant posts that keep the business vibrant and so much more keeps the business moving also can cause it to fall.  It doesn’t push aside the responsibility of the entrepreneur to keep their information and the information of their clients safe. 

Resources, education, research, networking, chats, games, and so much more can cause one to become addicted to the web.  The interaction with others across the world or next door has become a vital part of our daily lives.  Education, research and resources at your fingertips have outweighed the problems of invasion into our personal lives.  Some say they stay off the internet not wanting to subject their privacy to be invaded.  However, they search sites, research information or simply look up information; they’re connected and don’t realize it.  If you own a home, your records are there; if you’re a public employee or servant; if you are involved in community works or organizations, receive an award from an organization; and government records about you are on record.  You are a part of this revolving world of technology.

There is protection for your computer, an effort to keep spy-ware, and hackers from getting into your PC or laptop.  However, there is no protection from Joe Blow, checking your name, stealing your identity which he can find by digging through the information stored on the web.  In most states, identity theft via electronics or technology is now being looked at as an indictable crime.  This has been pushed through legislature due to crimes on the internet, ATM transactions in the bank, and cell phone fraud.   We have a long way to go and with the expansion of the internet and what it provides for society, it is imperative that we protect ourselves.

Establish one card you use for purchases on the net.  Pay-pal a secure payment source is great for security of payment and provides options for you to pay.  Monitor the sites your family members are a part of or visit; this is especially a necessity when you have children who use your computer.  Change your passwords often and avoid using the same password for all your sites.  Monitor your purchases and downloads.  Be careful when opening e-mails or links sent to you by unknown addresses.  Read the terms and conditions of your purchases.  Some of them link to deactivation of your cell phones and services.  Monitor your bank deductions to ensure when making online purchases the right amount has been deducted once and not multiple times.  Do not share accounts with others, if they get hacked you will be too.  Be alert to post on your site.  You can and will be held accountable for postings on your site.  Hackers will send mail in your name, postings in your name and when or if they are investigating you will be responsible for the content.  Any criminal activity should be reported immediately.  Each legitimate site will have contact information.  They should be made aware of illegal activity done in their name.  There are blocks for sites, people and pop ups, however monitoring all other interaction is the responsibility of anyone who uses the luxury of the web.

As we grow in this ever evolving world of technology we have to accept the pros and the cons and be responsible. We owe ourselves and our family protection from invaders of our privacy.  Limiting our usage of the internet is not the answer, being responsible while using it is what we must instill in our minds.  We can’t be hostages to such a beautiful experience and one where we should be free to gain knowledge on so many levels. Technology has opened our life to the world, but there are some things they just shouldn’t see. 

Date: 01/05/2013
Name: Donnell Hicks
Title: Miss Independent



Is love worth fighting for??? Sometimes a woman will ask herself that question over and over again in her head. The mantra “I can do bad all by myself,” is fundamentally saying that a woman can do anything without a man’s help. She can live her life to the fullest without a man making her happy. The more women who suffer at the hands of  an abusive relationship full of deceit, hurt, and pain, the more you will hear them say, “I can do bad all by myself.”

A woman is greatly satisfied with being all about “her” taking care of her own, doing for herself, working in a job force as a construction worker, a lawyer, a police officer, or a firefighter; because all in all it is a “woman’s world.”

One reason why a woman doesn’t like being in a relationship or can do without a love from a man is because she’s been hurt constantly by her better half. Meanwhile, a man will feel absolutely threatened when his wife/girlfriend becomes independent. For her,  getting involved in a relationship with a man will certainly hinder her progress as a strong woman, especially a black woman.

Throughout generations, black women have always showed a keen sense of independence. Women such as Lena Horne, Josephine Baker, Bessie Davis, Ida B. Wells, and Mary McCloud-Bethune displayed their strength to stand alone when they were considered beneath their male counterparts. We all heard the song “Trust and Believe” by R&B singer Keyshia Cole; the song is dedicated to plenty of women who have been abused and hurt while in a relationship with their boyfriend. On the other hand, “Girl on Fire,” by Alicia Keys is  an anthem for women who cook, clean the house, and take care of the children for the reason that their men are at work or busy paying attention to something else. In the end, a woman must learn to love herself before she can let go and love a man.

A woman’s heart is like a deep ocean filled with concrete secrets. Mainly, it can be loved or broken for some women. A woman would prefer to adopt a child rather than have one naturally given the fact she has experienced a cruel, disgusting relationship in the past. A woman may find it peaceful to adopt a child in order to break away from her past pain.

On the contrary, most men would love to marry or date a woman who is independent, a woman who has her own, and can keep her own without depending on a man, let alone, the government. I guess R&B star Ne-Yo said it all when he wrote the song entitled “Miss Independent” - she has her own elegance, she spreads her own grace, and keeps her own feet planted firmly to the ground showcasing a wave of strength, courage, and most importantly she has her head on tight…Miss Independent.

Date: 12/29/2012
Writer’s Name: Ornitha Danielle
Title: When Finding the Right Shoe


 
Many say that a picture is worth a thousand words, or better yet actions speaks louder than words. But when we can’t begin to express ourselves with words, we do in what we wear. I used to hear this saying growing up, “You’ll never really understand me until you’ve walked a mile in my shoes.” Although many of us may wear the same shoe size, if we exchanged shoes, could we walk in them? Maybe or may not. Why try to walk in a shoe that is either too big, too wide, or too narrow? I’m sure you get it. I believe we try to fit into places that we never were meant to fit in; think about it. We’ve all been told not to wear no one else’s shoes. There was a reason for that. I think hygiene had a lot to do with it then. My shoes are hard enough trying to walk in, so why try to walk in someone else’s?

See we may admire the shiny four or five-inch platforms with the ankle strap and the rhinestones, size seven and half. But could we walk comfortably in that shoe? Actually that would be too small for me, and besides I don’t wanna break my neck trying to pretend that I have it all together. Because I believe one day, even that person walking in them will trip and come crashing to the ground.  No I’m not saying that to be mean; I give props to those that can. I’m just saying at the end of
the day, when you’re all alone guess what? The shoes do come off and you might
have to ask yourself, “Why did I buy these shoes?”

Now, each and every shoe that we own, just like us, has its own story. Can you look at a shoe and remember what you did in it or what you had to get away from? Look
down at your shoes; some have seen better times, but you hold on to them. Why? Maybe to remind you of where you came from, or maybe where you’re going and maybe even desire to go. We have shoes for every occasion - some for jeans, some for going to the park, or out for a night on the town.  We buy them to make us feel better when we’ve had a bad day or because we wanna treat ourselves to something nice once in a while… or to make that outfit POP! Regardless of the reason, why do people see your shoes before they see you? That is a question I would like to know myself.

As I said before I have too many things going on in my life to even try to put my foot in someone else’s shoes! I can also recall this other saying, “Walk in my footsteps.” Are you kidding me! I know that at some point in time this has got to come to an end sooner or later. We can spend all day trying on shoes, and may even stop by a friend’s house and go through their closet looking, but guess what? Although it may fit, something about that shoe will never be right. For one it may be worn down on the heel which will give you a slight lean or you can feel where their toes have made their imprint into the shoe. When finding the right shoe, take your time. Don’t buy the first shoe you lay your eyes on, you’ll know when you see, literary speaking. Does it matter how much you spend on your shoes? I would say no! Just make sure it’s the right color, size and style for the season.

Date: 12/11/2012
Writer’s Name: 0rnitha Danielle
Title: In Perfect Tune



My body knows not the emotional course that it will take, but it builds up a wall that won’t shake. The keys play the perfect tune, although my heart sings out in imperfect tune as when roses are in perfect bloom. For my slender hand caresses the ivory keys, inside my inner soul bleeds.
Dressed in red, jewelry picked to fancy any guy that has been caught in my perfect sight. Will I whisper my dreams, my goals, my darkest secrets to his ear that he must go to God, so that he can see me ever so clear? Night has come, as the day is no more, the love that I’ve dreamt was knocking at heaven’s door.

My God sees me with all my flaws, and knows the day I desire to come home. For this life has become too hard, too painful to endure, the more I cry, the afraid, insecure woman in me dies. Longing to be understood, but often times very misunderstood.  With her eyes closed she thinks of walking the streets of gold. She knows she’s far more worth than any material things that are placed on this earth.

Does she know who she is? She realizes she’s worth more to God than to any man, because He’s the one with the master plan. For He, my God meticulously, created her with every single curve that would desire man, her personality and the swag too. She’s the daughter of a King; that is waiting on her King.

Knowing that her body, mind, and soul will be treasured like pure gold.  Why would she continue to sing songs in the imperfect tune, when she desires the love of a man to bring her to knees, as she prays for him, they are tired by the soul.  Her heart no longer beats to that off key tune, for she listen to his heart praying that it never parts. Joy rings down in her soul as she lays still and dream of them as they grow old.  She loves him although at this time she sings again out of tune, but to God that is a wonderful sound in His ear. As her tears hit the musical instrument it too plays a sweet melody, for every tear she cries again… it has been lifted up like a mighty fortress. For father in Heaven the King that still reigns on the throne collects all when they fall.  Can a woman’s heart be in perfect tune? Sure it can if she allows the Most High to perform open heart surgery to correct the past hurts, the broken promises, shattered dreams, and the lonely nights that are spent in darkness crying as the little girl within. The little wants to free so that woman can come to the forefront and be all she can be. But before she can know her worth, she has to allow her heart to be In Perfect Tune.

December 3, 2012
Charlotte Marshall Templeman
Tis the Season……To not go in Debt
   

The holiday season is here and Christmas decorations are being put up. Holiday parties at work are underway and the pressure to buy gifts is enormous. For many people, the holiday season is a time to spend with family and friends. It is a time when we get to show our loved ones how much we love them even more. However, the holiday season can be very stressful, especially financially.  For some parents the Christmas lists from their bright eyed children can be a matter of spending money they do not have or disappointing their child by not producing that much wanted toy under the Christmas tree. Going into debt should not be an option but for many people that is exactly what happens.  
   
Christmas is one of the biggest money maker holidays. Americans spend a record number of money on things from appliances, electronics and toys. Black Friday begins the official shopping for the season and people flock to various stores to take advantage of the numerous sales. Credit cards, gift cards and money are used as payment for people to get what they want. Often times however, people spend more money than they have. For some parents the holiday season is stressful because all too often they are spending money that is designated for something else like a utility bill, grocery bill or other important expense. Not wanting to disappoint their children they will spend the money that they do not have just to give their child that special gift they have been asking for all year.  Christmas has always been very commercialized but as parents we have to remember what the season is all about and convey that to our children.
   
As Christians we believe that Jesus Christ was born on Christmas day. Celebrating Christmas is more than receiving gifts; it is a time of giving and sharing with those less fortunate. Going into debt to buy a toy or gift should never be an option for anyone.  As parents we have to sit our children down and explain to them why we celebrate Christmas and what the holiday really means. In doing so, taking our children to volunteer at soup kitchens to feed the homeless, or visiting a children’s hospital to read to terminally ill kids will begin the spirit of giving in them. By teaching our children these values we are showing them that love is the most important gift of the holiday. The holiday season should never become too stressful to the point where the true meaning is lost. Giving gifts is wonderful and making our children smile is even greater; but not at the expense of spending what you do not have. Once Christmas day is over, life will continue to go on and our children will still need to be taken care of. Making sure their home is conducive for living by having all the necessities of life is the greatest gift of all. Besides that having our children know we love them, they are safe and taken care of is priceless.  Remembering the reason for the season will hopefully relieve some stress on parents who feel they have to do more than they can. Merry Christmas and remember Jesus is the reason for the season.

Date:  November 25, 2012
Name:  Nanette Buchanan
Title: Holiday Spirit

The holidays are upon us and as we wish “Happy Holidays” to everyone, most are looking forward to the holiday discounts.  The “holiday spirit” of today shares little to no connection to the “holiday spirit” of years ago.  Listening to elders as they talk of their family times, the cooking, sharing of gifts, donations and celebrations, the holidays consisted of religious and family values.  There was little talk of spending or the anxiety of “Black Friday” or internet sales.  Church worship, football games, family visits, charitable events, and eating filled the holidays.  The commercialized holidays activities and ads have all but taken over the airwaves before and after the “Happy Holiday.”

The spiritual vs. the material during religious holidays and the other holidays are valued as a break from the norm.  The anticipation, unless there is a personal connection to the holiday, is about a shopper’s advantage.  

As we scan the holidays, there are twelve that most of us observe without question.  The year starts with one of the first holidays, Martin Luther King’s Birthday, held in January. In observance of this great man, his birthday is often celebrated as the prelude to Black History Month.  In schools and homes, the reminder of the marches, protests and riots is reiterated.  It has become redundant, as opposed to the receptive. As history being passed on from the elders that lived during that time or were a part of the cause, our society has been disconnected from the facts and lost interest.  President’s Day and Valentine’s Day are observed in February.  Both President Washington and Lincoln share a birthday in the month and as such it is noted on one day.  Most of the events for this day are politically related and seldom celebrated in anyone’s home despite having a day off from work and school.  Valentine’s Day is a symbolization of romance, a day to express love to family and those we hold dear to our hearts.  Most couples, dating or married buy gifts and rekindle the spark that started the relationship.  Good Friday and Easter are next and though it is a religious holiday, we’ve grown accustom to the Easter Bunny, egg dying, and the egg hunts.  Dressing up with new clothes from head to toe and attending church at sunrise is still a part of the tradition.  This day the church is packed as it is the Sunday prior with Palm Sunday being observed.  A week later the congregation returns to religion as usual without the fanfare.  Memorial Day rolls in while grills are wiped down in preparation for the first cook-out.  Most pray for good weather, while those connected emotionally to the true meaning visit burial sites or attend events honoring our deceased brethren who fought in our Military.

As the summer begins, Independence Day brings family gatherings, cook-outs, parades and fireworks. Once again we celebrate another historic event.  Flags wave and our water downed history leaves most of today’s society oblivious to the true meaning of the holiday.  As the weather changes, Veteran’s Day and Election Day make way for the politicians, more parades and final outdoor events.  Halloween which was totally for the children has become quite popular for adults to masquerade as well.  Costumes, parties, trick or treat candy and decorations have gone from knocking on doors to larger parties and celebrations.  Halloween parades are popular, contest for originality and other categories are cause for it to become a well noted event although it is not a recognized day off.  Thanksgiving has always been the day for big family gatherings, a day of thanks and secret recipes.  Matriarchs of the families head up the large dinner at their homes where everyone feasts for days.  Many visit house to house sharing the thanks and blessings they’ve had over the year.  Christmas puts the turkey on the table again as gifts and decorations fill the house of families and friends.  The exchange of gifts is common, as well as attending church, and charitable fundraisers.  The end of the year and the beginning of a new is the ultimate celebration.  In church as well as across the world all drop the ball on New Year’s Eve.  The anticipation and the countdown is celebrated with carols, promising toasts, resolutions, and all night partying.

During the course of the year, usually two weeks prior and often too soon the commercials begin. Sending subliminal messages, retailers wait for their unsuspecting consumers to forget the original meaning for the holidays.  This is an opportunity for an increase in sales as the discounts can’t be overlooked.  Prices and discounts are noticeable and any avid shopper can tell you which holiday offers the largest bargain. Money is spent, returns are honored and there are consumers who would rather shop than spend the time with their families, at home or at church. This practice of saving, spending what consumers think is the best deal ever, continues to invade our homes year round, especially during the holidays.

I thought it was shameful that after the pushing, shoving and stampeding reported last year on “Black Friday,” why would anyone flood the stores again this year?  There have been minor injuries as well as death during the rush for the big discount.  The time has passed when you could shop and enjoy the crowd or the excitement of the children’s visit with Santa.  It’s now a rush to chaos and this year “Black Friday” shopping began on Thanksgiving night for a few of the larger stores.  

The internet has become the alternative for people like me. Although I can shop freely on my days off without the crowds, I am learning how to shop online.  I don’t think I would purchase everything on line, but it sure beats the rush.  Most online purchases have the same if not better, discounts.  

The holidays and the true meanings of each or the purpose the day was declared a holiday is secondary. Why?  Check the crowds that flock to the stores seeking fifty percent off the latest new trend.  There are some items that cause that overzealous consumer to camp out in the parking lot of the store overnight. Being first or as close to it, guarantees your purchase.  Electronics, designer clothes and shoes, handbags, you name it, someone is waiting to take the discount. When I was young each holiday became a memory and the years to follow became my collection of better times.  Families prayed together, shared in gift giving, and gave praise.  Church was first on Sunday with a great dinner to follow. Community sharing allowed families that had to give back and those that didn’t to be humble and volunteer to help others.  Simple basics and common sense was a part of shopping and price comparison was a part of browsing or window shopping.  As we evolved with better products, the educated consumer, and fantastic marketing, we lost our basic values. Most would share a sale before they passed a history or a religious book.  We are destined to be shopaholics if we’re collecting coupons, reading the circulars, or simply watching the Home Shopping Network.  This year I sat and watched the organized frenzy. Happy Holidays.

Date: 11/16/2012
Writer’s Name: Ornitha Danielle
Title: The Story of My Tears

The story of my tears, rolls down my face to express all my fears.
The broken promises, dreams and the shattered lives into this liquid of surprise.  
No more drama, no more pain for me hides in the essence of quilt and shame.
With each breath I take my soul beings to shake.
I search high and I search low wondering where did all the time go.
Reality is my sweet destiny; the bond I share is between God and me.
For every tear that falls He knows them all, and beings to wipe my eyes, when I call.  
Trusting in Him to guide me through, my valleys, and make a place for me to rest.
It sure feels good to know that I finally aced that test
The ups and downs, on this emotional rollercoaster have proven to be a scary ride, with many twist and turns, finding that there is a lesson to be learned.
For every tear that falls a piece of my brick wall is tumbling down, kneeling in prayer, it’s wonderful to know that God knows the number of my hairs.  
Its amazing that God knows what I will think before I think it, someday this thing we call life will pass away
The hugs that are no longer there is a bitter road of despair, wondering if anyone will really care?
What lead me to this place, could be the past, present or the future, or could be me wanting to be free
Love is a funny thing, the typical saying, but is it the answer lies between here or there, taking a look around it everywhere.
With every single beat of my heart, tears flow from my eye, again an element of disguise
To be kissed with lies brings on the dreadful fame
Center stage for the world to see, this person raging inside of me
Moving on every cue, Lord knows why I feel so blue
Curtains go up, the spotlight is so bright that my tears are taking flight
Unable to speak, for trying to stop ever tear, riddle with fear I can feel the pain piercing me like a sharp spear
Although the roads may become weary at times, it’s great to know that He’s always by my side
This too shall pass, one day I will receive my ticket to heaven 1st class
My tears write of a story that is so very true, but first I must say I love, do I believe what I just say when all I see is frustration instead
The image that is looking back at me, I have forgotten who she is and why she’s in so much pain
I whisper to her please let go of it, allow God to shield you from the cold rain
No sight of a smile on my face, as I turn to walk away
An angel appears to me and says my child let us pray
You’re never along; just remember Our father is on the Throne
You can go beyond the veil
YOU WILL PREVAIL!

Date: 11/8/2012
Name: Donnell Hicks
Title: Mother Nature




What about the sun? What about the trees? What about the animals walking on the land? What about the deep blue seas? Planet Earth or Mother Earth as some people call it is crumbling beneath our feet; the atmosphere is constantly changing very rapidly in front of our eyes every day. We should stop to notice that we must come together right now to combat climate change before it is too late for us to stop it. For some people they don’t recognize the shift of climate change as important; they believe it is a sign from God that the world is coming to an end. Basically, the issue of climate change is a fifty-fifty tossup - with some people believing in climate change and others not believing in it. Is it human nature or Mother Nature?

There are plenty of examples of the dramatic shift on planet Earth. One example back in 2005 is when the state of Florida experienced back to back to back hurricanes; it seemed like every month they were hitting the sunshine state in all directions. Another example is two years later when five tornadoes hit the Midwest. Earthquakes along with tsunamis’ were tackling Japan and Myanmar destroying everything in sight, and thousands of people had lost their lives. Winter storms have been hitting the entire central United States in the past years. And recently Hurricane Sandy made her mark in the Northeast colliding with a winter storm creating destruction in her path.

Many people and scientists from the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) have always believed in their hearts that due to the fast rapid change in weather patterns, Earth is crying out to be saved or worse, it is backfiring on those who decided to experiment with the air and the seas creating chaos in the mix. Is planet Earth being destroyed by folks who pose as scientists and play with the weather to make it so extreme, or is nature getting its revenge?

Another theory suggests carbon monoxide and other poisonous gasses are spilling into the atmosphere and making the ozone thinner every single day. As a result, people are cutting down trees thwat protects us from breathing in poisonous gasses in the air and that give us shade from the rays of the sun. Without the trees to protect us from the poisonous atmosphere, it is impossible to live here on Earth.

When it comes down to the ocean, many people claim that the rise in the waves of the oceans are based on the gravitational pull of the full moon, when in reality the rise of the oceans are caused by scientists who experiment with the deep blue sea, tossing poisonous liquids into the sea forcing the animals in the deep blue sea to make their way onto land, such as dolphins and humpback whales, because their home is being tampered with. Take the everglades here in Florida for example; out of town developers want to build apartment buildings on the everglades and to some extent homes are being built on swamp lands to the point where creatures like alligators are crawling out of the sewers and making their home in people’s homes all because of their habitat has been destroyed.

We’re deep in the fire when it comes down to how we handle planet Earth and we must do our part to help clean up the planet and save it for the next generation. 

   

November 8, 2012
Charlotte Marshall Templeman
There is Power in Unity
   

The presidential election is over. The people have spoken and our president Barack Obama has been re-elected to another term. Upon hearing this news there were cheers, cries, hugs and most importantly pride. Americans, especially African Americans came out in record numbers to exercise their right to vote. We stood in long lines in the cold, dealt with malfunctioning machines and an occasional problem at the polls. However, this did not deter us and we pushed forward until it became our turn to step into the voting booth. We selected our choice and walked out with a great sense of pride as we were given our “I Voted” sticker to display on our coats for everyone to see. We not only once again made history but we were a part of history. Now the excitement is over, the debates are history and the president is well at work. So now what do we do? We have to take that same enthusiasm we had in re-electing our president back to our communities. 
   
Although we have the commander in chief we all prayed for there is work that still needs to be done on our local levels. We have to make sure our schools and teachers are qualified and dedicated to ensuring our children receive the best education possible. All schools, whether they are in the suburbs or inner city, private or public, we as citizens and parents have to make sure our children receive the same quality education as their counterparts. It is important to hold teachers, staff and administration accountable if our children are not receiving the education they are supposed to. In conjunction we have to be actively involved in making sure our children will be able to read, write and perform the basic essentials in order for them to graduate and move on to college or the work force. Besides making sure our schools are up to standard we have to take care of our neighborhoods by making sure they are safe. It is just as important for us to band together to get rid of the toxic things that make our neighborhoods unsafe for all that reside there. Getting to know your local ward leaders, state representatives, community leaders and church leaders can be helpful if needed as well as knowing the role of your mayor. We elect these people on the local level to take care of us and we have to challenge them and make them accountable in doing their jobs.
   
The work is far from done. We cannot sit back and allow our communities, schools and children to not prosper and then blame other people. Whatever changes we wish to see we have to make. The president has a country to run and he will do the best he can in ensuring our needs are met on a whole. However, we have to continue to work at home in making changes for our children, families, and communities.  The same enthusiasm and fire that brought a record number of African Americans out to vote has to remain lit.  We have proven that there is power in unity and whatever we set our minds to we can accomplish. I challenge everyone to take a stand in their neighborhoods in bringing positive change. If that means volunteering, helping a neighbor in need, starting a program to help keep our children off the street, assisting those with obtaining health insurance, feeding, clothing and locating shelter for those in need or whatever your heart desires, we can make a difference. President Obama is doing what he needs to do for the American people, now what are you prepared to do?