Voter turnout in the city of Detroit was low yesterday, but did we really expect more? My motto is, "Don't sweat the small stuff." We can't afford to worry too much about other people's actions, or lack thereof. I'm a faithful voter, have been for most my voting elegible years. As such, I made my voice heard yesterday evening.
And the results are:
Mayoral Candidates: Dave Bing, Tom Barrow
I'll be honest. I had no clue who Mr. Tom Barrow was until I googled him this afternoon. I, like the majority of the voters in the city, was far more interested in the city council candidates. Since Dave Bing just got into office, like last week, we might as well see what he's got to offer. No need in changing administration so soon.
City Council Candidates: Charles Pugh (Yay!), Ken Cockrel Jr. (Boo!), Gary Brown, Brenda Jones, Saunteel Jenkins, Kwame Kenyatta, Joanne Watson, Jai-Lee Dearing, Alberta Tinsley-Talibi, Andre Spivey, James Tate, Lisa Howze, Shelley Foy, Fred Elliot Hall, Raphael Johnson (huh?), Mohamed Okdie, David Cross, John Bennett (:)).
Whew! That was a lot of typing.
I think this was the first time in Detroit's political history, that the primary focus of the election was on the council, rather than the mayor's office. Regarding the race for city council, I couldn't be more happy about Charles Pugh's place in the race. Well, not 100%. As much as I support Mr. Pugh as a candidate, I don't believe a new councilperson should jump in as president of the body, hence, the need for the city's charter to be revised. Another thing, I have a problem with people referring to Charles Pugh as a celebrity and insinuating that he's running for office, solely, based on name recognition. Mr. Pugh can't help it if his name is a household name in the city of Detroit because of news reporting and his time on the radio station, WJLB. I think Charles has evidenced his commitment to the city in several ways. The fact that he'd leave his lucrative career to serve the city speaks volumes to his character and his purpose. He's a true Detroiter and he will be an asset to the city council. AND, PLEASE, I HOPE PEOPLE STOP TALKING ABOUT THE MAN'S SEXUALITY! THAT IS SO OLD NEWS!
Most surprising to me about the council race was convicted murderer, Raphael Johnson, making it on the November ballot. I didn't think it would happen. The subject of whether a convicted felon should be allowed to hold public office was such a hot and touchy topic since the news of his conviction became public knowledge. Personally, I was on the fence on the issue. It pains me to think of all the young people, especially young black men, who traveled the wrong path in their youths, which led to criminal convictions, and the difficulty that they have obtaining gainful employment, in order to leave the criminal life behind. It's pretty hypocritical of us, as a people, to call our punitive system, a place for rehabilitation, then say those convicted are not welcome to ALL parts of society once they have paid their debts to society. Who are we to judge? I mean, really, the actions, whether criminal or not, most of us took at the age of 17 or 18, aren't the same ones we would take 10 or 20 years later, right? So why should we view Raphael Johnson any differently?
City Charter Commission: Freeman Hendrix, Rose Mary Robinson; Teola Hunter; Ken Coleman; Jenice Mitchell Ford; John Johnson; Jeffery Robinson; Reggie Reg Davis; Cara Blount; Jonathan Kinloch; Ken Harris; John Eddings; Tonya Myers-Phillips; Patty Fedewa; Sarah Lile; Warren Crockett; Olumba-John Olumba and Elena Herrada
On the subject of the charter commission, I wish I was more informed on all of the candidates. Seeing that I wasn't, responsibly, I only voted for who I knew I wanted on that commission--Freeman Hendrix :) All I know is that our charter is in desperate need of revision so we can avoid circus shows such as this council race. Can we get some qualifications for council? Can we set some standards, like whether a convicted felon can run for office? Can we set limits on how many people can run, so voters don't have to search through 167 names on a ballot? Please!
I'm pretty proud of myself in recent years. I remember, about 5yrs ago, I used to roll my eyes when my, now ex-husband, use to be trying to engage me in political conversations. At that time, politics wasn't something I paid much attention to. Yes, I used to vote based on name recognition, mainly because I wasn't aware or didn't understand the issues. Recently, I've turned over a new leaf. I understand the importance of being an informed voter so that I don't regret the decisions made by people I chose. So, now, I'm always looking for ways to inform myself on issues that surround me. I listen to the Mildred Gaddis show most mornings, I watch CNN in the evenings, and I tune in to the Rachel Maddox show, and another, who's name I can't remember offhand. But, overall, it felt pretty good to vote for people who I really believed in and I encourage all to do the same, if you're not already. And, if you have some news programs that you recommend, please share it with me in the comment section.
Lastly, can anyone say, "Thank God, Martha Reeves is a goner?"
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
An Interesting Perspective
Is it possible that I could ever regret my decision to lock my hair? Hmm. I don't think so. Just the other day, I was explaining to an inquiring mind how detached I've become with my hair over this hair locking process. I'm not peturbed about the prospect of cutting my locks out IF and WHEN I ever decide not to wear them anymore. I am so NOT "my hair"! The locking process has freed me from the relevance that my hair plays in my life.
Then, here comes my mom with a perspective I hadn't considered. She and I were discussing the difficulties in the job market. Specifically, as it relates to older people being discriminated against. My mom was talking about, possibly, rinsing the grey out of her hair, if she should find herself displaced from her current job. From there, she began talking about the challenges my aunt encountered trying to be promoted into a management position at the company that I, now, work for. My aunt, who was very Afrocentric, from head to toe, was sure that her challenges stemmed from her natural state of being. Eventually, my aunt gave up and pursued other employment endeavors.
Now, here we are--10 plus years later. A natural hair movement, so to speak, has transpired. Everywhere you go, you're likey to see a sistah rocking a low fade, neat afro, natural twists, or locks. It sort of gives the impression that it's become socially acceptable for black women, black people, to embrace and express their natural beauty. After the conversation with my mother, I realized that, while locks may be more "socially" acceptable, the same may not hold true in the corporate world. My career path was not an area I considered when I was thinking of locking my hair.
I've been working for a certain telecommunications company for over 10 years. During those years, I've worked in a few different departments on the non-management side. At different times, I have considered tranistioning to the management side. Of course, I thought nothing of that when I was deciding on whether or not to lock my hair. And, personally, I don't think I should have.
What I, or anyone else, chooses to do with their hair should have no bearing on a position that they carry with a corporation. The emphasis should be placed on the work performed. Unfortunately, I know that how it should be, is not always how it is. So, that being the case, if I begin to notice that I'm not being promoted because of my locks, will I regret my personal style? Will I change my style for a position?
I think NOT!
Easily, locking my hair has been one THE best decisions of my life! Seriously. I could never regret it for anything in the world. If corporate America doesn't want me because of my lovely locks, then, it is THEY who lose.
Then, here comes my mom with a perspective I hadn't considered. She and I were discussing the difficulties in the job market. Specifically, as it relates to older people being discriminated against. My mom was talking about, possibly, rinsing the grey out of her hair, if she should find herself displaced from her current job. From there, she began talking about the challenges my aunt encountered trying to be promoted into a management position at the company that I, now, work for. My aunt, who was very Afrocentric, from head to toe, was sure that her challenges stemmed from her natural state of being. Eventually, my aunt gave up and pursued other employment endeavors.
Now, here we are--10 plus years later. A natural hair movement, so to speak, has transpired. Everywhere you go, you're likey to see a sistah rocking a low fade, neat afro, natural twists, or locks. It sort of gives the impression that it's become socially acceptable for black women, black people, to embrace and express their natural beauty. After the conversation with my mother, I realized that, while locks may be more "socially" acceptable, the same may not hold true in the corporate world. My career path was not an area I considered when I was thinking of locking my hair.
I've been working for a certain telecommunications company for over 10 years. During those years, I've worked in a few different departments on the non-management side. At different times, I have considered tranistioning to the management side. Of course, I thought nothing of that when I was deciding on whether or not to lock my hair. And, personally, I don't think I should have.
What I, or anyone else, chooses to do with their hair should have no bearing on a position that they carry with a corporation. The emphasis should be placed on the work performed. Unfortunately, I know that how it should be, is not always how it is. So, that being the case, if I begin to notice that I'm not being promoted because of my locks, will I regret my personal style? Will I change my style for a position?
I think NOT!
Easily, locking my hair has been one THE best decisions of my life! Seriously. I could never regret it for anything in the world. If corporate America doesn't want me because of my lovely locks, then, it is THEY who lose.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Up For the Challenge
I'm not sure if my daughter did this on purpose, but, nonetheless, she challenged me to accomplish a long sought after goal of mine. Since she was born 14 years ago, I've been working off & on throughout the years to lose the belly fat that developed from the birth of her and my son five years ago.
Yesterday she and I went to the gym. Back at home I continued to perform some ab exercises and arm toning exercises. While doing this I was talking about how motivated I become when I take in the fit bodies surrounding me at the gym. Well she says, "Ma, I don't even know why you keep exercising. You've been exercising like forever and you don't eat as much junk as some people do and you still got that fat stomach. You might as well just accept it."
Yep. Just like that. That's what MY child said to me. Now, she wasn't mean spirited. She says all the time that I have a nice figure. I wear a size 8. So why do I stress myself over a flabby belly? She simply doesn't understand.
Believe me, I wish I could stop my quest as much as anybody. But how can I stop when I know I haven't done absolutely everything I can to achieve my goal. I'm guilty of wanting the desired result without REALLY investing the sacrifice and dedication necessary to achieve it. The longest duration I went faitfully to the gym was maybe six to nine months. During the time, my body was getting into shape. I could tell. However, I didn't curtail my eating ENOUGH to reach the desired results. I still wanted to eat chocolate chip cookies (my fav), pizza (my other fav), and fast food multiple times during the month.
So, for me, I can't let go of the goal until I do ALL that is reasonably possible. Most of the women I see in the gym who have the bodies I desire are working out HARD. They're not walking on the treadmill. They're RUNNING. They're not just doing the ab machines. They working EVERY muscle. I can only assume, if they're working it out like that in the gym, they're probably meticulous with their healty eating regimens as well.
Though it's taken me awhile to get myself back in the gym, I'm back now. I acknowledge that I need prayer and meditation to overcome the challenges that are before me. What comforts me is that this is something that I want. It's not for anyone elses benefit but my own.
Exercising, eating right, and having the BEST physical and healthiest body I can is a lifetime goal. I intend to be the woman at 45, 50, & 60 years old that younger women declare, "Wow, that's how I want to look when I get that old." Probably sounds a bit vain, but it's my goal, nonetheless. The good thing is that in the process of pursuing my goal, my kids are learning throughout their lives about healthy living because they're involved every step of the way.
Wish me luck!
Yesterday she and I went to the gym. Back at home I continued to perform some ab exercises and arm toning exercises. While doing this I was talking about how motivated I become when I take in the fit bodies surrounding me at the gym. Well she says, "Ma, I don't even know why you keep exercising. You've been exercising like forever and you don't eat as much junk as some people do and you still got that fat stomach. You might as well just accept it."
Yep. Just like that. That's what MY child said to me. Now, she wasn't mean spirited. She says all the time that I have a nice figure. I wear a size 8. So why do I stress myself over a flabby belly? She simply doesn't understand.
Believe me, I wish I could stop my quest as much as anybody. But how can I stop when I know I haven't done absolutely everything I can to achieve my goal. I'm guilty of wanting the desired result without REALLY investing the sacrifice and dedication necessary to achieve it. The longest duration I went faitfully to the gym was maybe six to nine months. During the time, my body was getting into shape. I could tell. However, I didn't curtail my eating ENOUGH to reach the desired results. I still wanted to eat chocolate chip cookies (my fav), pizza (my other fav), and fast food multiple times during the month.
So, for me, I can't let go of the goal until I do ALL that is reasonably possible. Most of the women I see in the gym who have the bodies I desire are working out HARD. They're not walking on the treadmill. They're RUNNING. They're not just doing the ab machines. They working EVERY muscle. I can only assume, if they're working it out like that in the gym, they're probably meticulous with their healty eating regimens as well.
Though it's taken me awhile to get myself back in the gym, I'm back now. I acknowledge that I need prayer and meditation to overcome the challenges that are before me. What comforts me is that this is something that I want. It's not for anyone elses benefit but my own.
Exercising, eating right, and having the BEST physical and healthiest body I can is a lifetime goal. I intend to be the woman at 45, 50, & 60 years old that younger women declare, "Wow, that's how I want to look when I get that old." Probably sounds a bit vain, but it's my goal, nonetheless. The good thing is that in the process of pursuing my goal, my kids are learning throughout their lives about healthy living because they're involved every step of the way.
Wish me luck!
Friday, July 24, 2009
The Good Ole' Days
I'm wondering when did I become such a scaredy-cat when it comes to spending money. Five years ago, I had standing bi-weekly hair appointments. In the summer, I would at least treat myself to two or three pedicures in the summer time. I would treat my mom, sister, and my daughter to the movies on occasion. We'd go to breakfast, lunch, or dinner. And, the mall was a hangout--not just for window shopping either.
Now, I cringe when my, now, teenage daughter wants to go the mall. Although I want and need a pedicure, when I think about kicking out that $25 dollars compared to just painting my own toenails, I decide on the latter. Even though I wear my hair locked, I only see my loctician a few times a year, maintaining my own hair.
Did the economy reshape my spending priorities? Did maturity? Did having two children?
Whatever the case and cause, I know I miss those days. Even though I know my sights are set on more longterm gratifying things like a bigger house, college savings for my children, my personal savings, vacation (family & personal), I really want the best of both worlds. I'd love to get back to treating myself to regular hair appointments. I want regular pedicures! I want to hit the mall whenever a sale is going on, not just when I absolutely have to for the kids.
Thank God for patience and strength. Until I'm able to have the life I want, I make the best of the life I have. Where I can't shop ALL the time, on the occasion when I take the kids shopping for their necessities, I treat myself to a little something. Every now and then, the kids and I do go out for breakfast or dinner, bowling, and a movie (matinee or drive-ins). I'm comforted knowing my reward is on the way :)
Now, I cringe when my, now, teenage daughter wants to go the mall. Although I want and need a pedicure, when I think about kicking out that $25 dollars compared to just painting my own toenails, I decide on the latter. Even though I wear my hair locked, I only see my loctician a few times a year, maintaining my own hair.
Did the economy reshape my spending priorities? Did maturity? Did having two children?
Whatever the case and cause, I know I miss those days. Even though I know my sights are set on more longterm gratifying things like a bigger house, college savings for my children, my personal savings, vacation (family & personal), I really want the best of both worlds. I'd love to get back to treating myself to regular hair appointments. I want regular pedicures! I want to hit the mall whenever a sale is going on, not just when I absolutely have to for the kids.
Thank God for patience and strength. Until I'm able to have the life I want, I make the best of the life I have. Where I can't shop ALL the time, on the occasion when I take the kids shopping for their necessities, I treat myself to a little something. Every now and then, the kids and I do go out for breakfast or dinner, bowling, and a movie (matinee or drive-ins). I'm comforted knowing my reward is on the way :)
How Rude!
The way you may get through your work day and somebody else gets through their day are not always the same. Here it is Friday. Our boss left early. Yay! Well, my coworker thinks its cool to listen to his music WITHOUT headphones. I, on the other hand, try to get some writing done at times like this. And it's EXTREMELY difficult to get that done with he's jumping from song to song to song!!!!
I know I could ask him to turn the music down, but you'd think he'd know better since he fell out with another coworker over his music being too loud. You know, we're all grown There are just some things you should know. Clearly he doesn't.
Well, it's my time to fly this coup. Hopefully I can finish my other blog entry when I get home. Man, he's lucky I'm not working on a masterpiece.
Peace
L.A. Jefferson
I know I could ask him to turn the music down, but you'd think he'd know better since he fell out with another coworker over his music being too loud. You know, we're all grown There are just some things you should know. Clearly he doesn't.
Well, it's my time to fly this coup. Hopefully I can finish my other blog entry when I get home. Man, he's lucky I'm not working on a masterpiece.
Peace
L.A. Jefferson
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Yes, They're all Squared Away
Finally I can enjoy my summer! Last week I finalized the paperwork for son's new elementary school. Then this week my daughter received her letter of acceptance to the high school she was hoping to get accepted into--a nationally recognized high school and one of the best in our city. Before this, I hate to admit, I didn't have the solid backup plans. It had gotten to the point that I hated when people would ask me what school my daughter was going to. Since most people who asked didn't need the whole story, I started speaking the name of the school we wanted her to go to. Then I was prayed that God would work everything out just the way I needed HIM to.
And he did!
God knew I needed a good elementary school and high school close to my job. Reason being, I plan to move by the end of this year or early next year. And since I'm not decided on where I'll be residing, it became important that both children be in the vicinity of my job. Now that's exactly the case.
Sure I'll lose my peaceful morning drives, being in the hustle and bustle of getting the kids to their respective schools on time. But, when I need to get to them during the school day or for after school activities, I'm less than 10 minutes away from both. Can't get much better than that!
So until school shopping time (practically right around the corner), I'm gonna be relaxing, enjoying the summer sun.
And he did!
God knew I needed a good elementary school and high school close to my job. Reason being, I plan to move by the end of this year or early next year. And since I'm not decided on where I'll be residing, it became important that both children be in the vicinity of my job. Now that's exactly the case.
Sure I'll lose my peaceful morning drives, being in the hustle and bustle of getting the kids to their respective schools on time. But, when I need to get to them during the school day or for after school activities, I'm less than 10 minutes away from both. Can't get much better than that!
So until school shopping time (practically right around the corner), I'm gonna be relaxing, enjoying the summer sun.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Uh-Oh, She Betta Watch Out
She didn't realize it, but my loctitian gave me major props when she was retightening my hair the other day. You see, I'd just gotten my locs colored a week ago by my pre-natural hair days stylist. Well that stylist doesn't maintain locs, but I trusted her undoubtedly for color treating my locs. Point being, since I had a ladies' night outing prior my scheduling retightening visit I had to do retighten myself. Anyway, when my locitian saw my hair she said, "Oh, she retightened it,too," speaking of the colorist. I proudly answered that I had retightened my own hair. Though she didn't go on to compliment me directly (which I think she should have), I took it as a compliment that she thought a professional had done my hair.
Such a proud moment. Even though I'd received compliments from others when I retighten my locs, it meant a lot coming from someone who does it professionally. It reaffirmed that I can do a really good job when I take my time. And more importantly, if I can do such a good job on my own hair, I can do it for others, too.
That, I'm looking forward to. Yet, another stream of income. One that can replace my day job, if necessary, thus making more free time to pen those stories :) Always gotta think ahead, right?
LA Jefferson
Such a proud moment. Even though I'd received compliments from others when I retighten my locs, it meant a lot coming from someone who does it professionally. It reaffirmed that I can do a really good job when I take my time. And more importantly, if I can do such a good job on my own hair, I can do it for others, too.
That, I'm looking forward to. Yet, another stream of income. One that can replace my day job, if necessary, thus making more free time to pen those stories :) Always gotta think ahead, right?
LA Jefferson
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