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The COMPLETE DC Black Pride Manifesto

Okay, here are my complete thoughts on DC Black Pride aka DC Black Lesbian and Gay Pride Day.

Day One: Friday

I worked in the morning with my Kindergarteners, then got off for half a day due to staff development. (Subs don't generally go unless they are long-term.)

My online friend Ralph came down from New York with his two friends Curtis and Morgan. They were all very nice men who supported LAZARUS! I was so happy -- that really kicked off my evening the right way. We hung out in their room for a while before we headed downstairs to hang out in the lobby.

In the lobby, I saw Brent Dorian Carpenter, who inspired me to take my life and my art by the horns and self-publish my novel. And I told him so! He was really touched by that, and it felt good to give him LAZARUS directly from my hands. Brent Dorian Carpenter is the author of The 21st Century Chronicles of Thugg The Barbarian King , Bald Ambition, This Time Around, and Man of the Cloth. I got them all this weekend -- so should you!

At nearly the same time, I met Alphonso Morgan. I have already mentioned his hotness -- I think everyone at Pride felt that way. But did you also know that Alphonso Morgan is fuckin' brilliant? He and his cousin (I feel like her name was Ashley?)were really cool. Pick up his debut novel Sons available from his website. The cover on the site is different from the one that is currently on sale. So if you got the old one, get the new one too!

Ralph, Curtis, Morgan, and I went down to the opening reception, which was scheduled to start at 8pm and end at 11pm. EVERYTHING prior to this night said it would end at 11pm. Why did it end at 10pm? It is my understanding that the food was really good, but all that was left was cheese by the time I got there. There was some music and dancing, too. It would have been a NICE alternative to the club had it been open another hour and had some good hip-hop. But alas, it ended early, and back upstairs I went.

I am not sure how it happened, but I found myself in the lobby with this cat from NY. He was really cool! He seemed to know everyone. We saw Alphonso Morgan and his dog again. I'm sorry, I ain't like that dog. Lil bug eyed fucker. LOL. I'm a cat person. Laila would take him out!

It was also at that time that I also saw:
Maurice Jamal

and some of the cast of The Ski Trip, including Nathan Hale,

and Daren Fleming:

All of them were very fun, charming, and good guys. I remembered most of them from the year before, when they were promoting The Ski Trip. I won't lie. I was thinking damn, this is gonna be corny. In 04, all the cast and the filmmaker were wearing pink. I was like ewwwwww this is so corny. And maybe this was my own inadequacies, but I thought maybe they seemed cliquish? I dunno. Anyway, I wasn't as enthused about the flick as I have been about other gay films.

The Ultimate Star Wars Personality Test

Posted by Rashid on at 6:31 PM | Comments (0)

Me and No4Real4Real

It's blurry, dawg! I am so mad at that.

This is No4Real4Real. You might not be able to tell by the picture, but YES, he is hot. To death. I was like DAYUM! Hot people buy my book?

Anyway, No4Real4Real is a cool cat who ordered my book, got it last week, and (coincidentally) came down to DC for Pride. He stopped by my table and introduced himself! That was cool. I want to hang out with him more in the future -- we're around the same age and had similar college experiences.

I PROMISE a detailed update on EVERYTHING...but I gotta go to work!!!!

Posted by Rashid on at 7:11 AM | Comments (8)

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

American Cities That Best Fit You:

65% Philadelphia

60% Chicago

55% New York City

50% Atlanta

50% San Francisco

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

Posted by Rashid on at 1:17 AM | Comments (3)

Pride Teaser

Yes, it's blurry. You'll be okay.

At some point, I will recover enough from Pride to tell you all about it. In great detail. But for now, just enjoy the pic.

Hmmm...could it be Adrian and Savion?

Posted by Rashid on May 30, 2005 at 5:31 PM | Comments (1)

Pride II (Highlights)

Went to a workshop that was cancelled...but sold a book!

Breakfast with Frat! Joined by another very pleasant dude from Philly. Sold a book!

Came late to another workshop about Out and Gay at HBCUs. Sold a book and gave some to the panelists.

Went to the Town Hall Meeting about Black and Gay in America. Didn't sell a book but got CRAZY free promotion when one of the panelists (who I had just given a book to previously) said my name and held my book up as an example of novels to support! I was like DAMN, you can't buy publicity like that!

Sat with my girl Courtney and had jokes.

Hung out in the lobby for a while.

Saw THE SKI TRIP. Review forthcoming. Bottom line -- I LIKED IT A LOT!!!!! I was like damn, did someone steal my life?

Gave a copy of the book to Maurice Jamal, the man who made THE SKI TRIP. So like, why is he hot? So is Alphonso Morgan. So was everyone at Pride. Damn.

Was supposed to meet my girl for the film festival, but I was in the town hall meeting and lost track of time, so she went back home. I was sad. :-(

Met with frat! (Different frat.) Later in the evening, met deaf frat! Why were they all hot? lol

Speaking of which, why were the Lesbians hot, too?

Was SPOSED to go to the poetry slam, but I just wasn't feeling it, yo. By that time of the day, I had no more books to sell or give to "opinion molders" or other folks in the life that just shouldn't have to buy one.

There were MAD GREEKS at Pride. Saw an AKA, SGRho, and a Delta at one event alone.

Camped out in the lobby for a while, just chillin. Ran into some Gamma Sigs I know. One of them knows Diddy. We called Diddy. Diddy was in PR though.

Had dinner with Brent Dorian Carpenter. Like everyone else, he was hot.

Alphonso Morgan is fucking HOT. Buy his book based on the stength of his hotness. Like, Alphonso Morgan is so fucking hot, that even I couldn't holla at him. Like, his hotness intimidates me in that Aaron McGruder way.

I eventually hung out with like ten different dudes -- I only knew one from before, the rest I met this weekend. All cool. Majority hot. LOL

Can we have Pride every weekend?

I know this post was crazy, but I am having so much fun.

Oh yeah, I saw HIM again. And I showed him to my frat on the sly. He ain't have nothing to say one way or the other, regarding him. Just Oh. lol

Shit is banoodles.

Posted by Rashid on May 29, 2005 at 3:01 AM | Comments (0)

Pride I

DC Gay Black Pride is so much fun! Last night:

I hung out with Ralph, Curtis, and Morgan, my boys from New York who came down.
Sold a few books.
Swapped books with ALPHONSO MORGAN, Author of SONS
Hung out with author Brent Dorian Carpenter, who has self-published four books.
Hung out with an Assistant Principal from NY, a college student from Rhode Island, and one of those FABULOUS sassy black chicks who could give Nina a run for her money!
Went to a reception where all the food was gone except for the cheese, LOL. I was gonna do the speed-dating, but I missed it.
and….
I saw and talked to HIM.

:-)

Today:
Health and Wellness Festival
Town Hall Meeting
Film Festival
Poetry Slam
Networking, Networking, Networking

I picked up my business cards yesterday and they look nice. If you’re in DC, consider Quality Printers on Third and Kennedy.

PEACE! More details later….

Posted by Rashid on May 28, 2005 at 7:32 AM | Comments (0)

Erased by Annie Lennox

I'm gonna put it all behind me
Like nothing ever happened between us
Nothing ever took place between you and me...
Yes
Nothin' ever happened
And if you se me walkin' down the street
I won't even recognise you
I'll just erase you from my memory
Put it all behind me
Because you are erased
All erased...

you'll be sittin' on someone else's couch
You'll be eatin' off a stranger's plate
Everything is gonna get wiped out
Like a new start
Like a brand new fresh clean slate
Well here I go remembering again
All the anger and the blame...
People in glass houses shouldn't throw those stones
but ... something just flew through my window pane

My my my my ... (oh mama did it touch you well?)

I'll be in a brand new pair of running shoes
And you'll be walking on down different street
in a brand new suit and a fresh clean shirt
Makin' telephone calls...
Keepin' in time with someone else's feet
Keepin' in time with someone else's feet

It doesn't necessarily help, but it doesn't hurt.

Posted by Rashid on May 26, 2005 at 7:35 PM

Frat/Soror Round-Up for May 26

Grambling set to give degree to late student
By TIMOTHY P. BUSH

Staff Writer

Though Shanita Sharmaine Shine was unable to finish her last semester of college because of her death, Grambling State University plans to award the former Beauregard Parish resident's degree to her mother this Sunday morning at the university's fall commencement. The ceremony will take place at Eddie G. Robinson Stadium beginning at 8 a.m.

Rosa Cole, Shanita's mother, received a letter from the university saying that the senior would be awarded her degree posthumously.

"I didn't think they were going to give her the degree since she had not been in school since December," Cole said.

The 3.8 GPA student left school on December 2nd after being confused and disoriented. She died on March 21, 2005.

Cole said she wasn't aware of the impact her daughter had on so many people in her short life. Since her death, a tree has been planted in her memory at GSU. She was honored with an award from the GSU chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants. The award will be named in Shine's honor and given to a deserving member within the organization.

Shanita was a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Society, Beta Phi Society, Student Mentor, Big Brother Big Sisters and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.

"It really gives my heart joy that even though she's not here physically, she is leaving a legacy behind," Cole said. "It pleases me to know that she touched so many people's lives. She was so focused and hard working, so it pleases me that her hard work is being recognized.

Delta Sigma Theta recognizes community work
By Jennifer Peltz
Staff Writer

May 22, 2005

WEST PALM BEACH · Delta Sigma Theta is a sisterhood and a distinguished one, counting congresswomen, a presidential cabinet member and noted activists and artists among its members.

But the Deltas aren't chary about giving men credit, too. In fact, the predominantly African-American sorority's West Palm Beach Alumnae Chapter alternates its annual community-leadership awards between men and women every year.

"We don't recognize the men enough, not in our community. So we have made a concerted effort," explains awards chair Allyson Smith. "It's a very proud thing, I think, for a man to say, `The women think that I'm doing something that's contributing to their lives.'"

If Saturday's Men of Excellence Awards gala was any indication, she's right. As honoree Alfred "Zack" Straghn put it, "It does make me feel that I have touched people that I thought I hadn't."

The gathering at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts recognized the men for their work in fields ranging from arts to business, but above all for their commitment to community service. The sorority evaluates not only nominees' achievements, but their zeal.

And it does not consider elected officials, aiming instead to recognize "the everyday person who's doing great things," Smith said.

The Deltas did make a bit of an exception for one very recognizable honoree, actor/producer/director Tim Reid. He said the sorority had impressed him since his days at Virginia's Norfolk State University.

"I know the power, prestige and the dynamics of the organization," said Reid, whose 30-year career includes starring in WKRP in Cincinnati and writing and directing the critically acclaimed film Once Upon A Time ... When We Were Colored.

Reid's fellow honorees may not have screen credits, but they are luminaries in their own respects. Straghn, for instance, is an esteemed Delray Beach community activist. The owner of Straghn and Son Tri-City Funeral Home, he headed his hometown's Human Relations Board and led South Palm Beach County's branch of the NAACP for 10 years, among many other civic endeavors.

Elder Robert J. Hendley Jr. has worked to make Greater Bethel Primitive Baptist Church a resource for those in need, in ways as diverse as starting a school and making buses and buildings available to disaster victims. The pastor's work at the Riviera Beach church dates back decades.

James J. Jefferson of West Palm Beach is a retired educator and seemingly tireless volunteer. He calls bingo at a nursing home, provides advice and referrals on a 211 crisis-line shift, helps staff his neighborhood's citizens patrol and that's just the beginning.

Orville Lawton started and directs the Ebony Chorale of the Palm Beaches, a highly regarded volunteer chorus that centers on preserving black spirituals. Lawton also teaches at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. School of the Arts, a public arts magnet school.

Joseph Orr spent more than 40 years as a teacher, principal and high-ranking administrator in Palm Beach County's public schools. He's now working to start a Montessori-method charter school, a public school run by a private group, in Palm Beach Gardens.

The Responsible Fatherhood Initiative of Palm Beach County, led by director Kevin T. Irvin, works with fathers and potential fathers, some as young as 9. Offerings range from afterschool programs to support groups for dads.

For more information about the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, see www.deltasigmatheta.org v or call 202-986-2400.

Jennifer Peltz can be reached at jpeltz@sun-sentinel.com or 561-243-6636.

Local students learn valuable lession
By Kerry Batey
The Daily Sentinel

Published May 18, 2005
Students from the Alabama A and M University recently paid a visit to Scottsboro thanks to Coordinator Tiajuana Cotton. Members of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity visited and performed Step Shows for students at the Scottsboro Christian Academy and the local Boys and Girls Club.

The students enjoyed the Step Show, but they also learned some valuable advice. Advisor, Kevin Walker, told students a little about his childhood experience and involvement with the Boys and Girls Club. Walker said that he had tried becoming a part of other groups and organizations. However, he found that the Boys and Girls Club organization really cared about him and helped him succeed in life. According to Walker the Boys and Girls Club aided him throughout high school and even his first year in college by teaching him valuable skills.

NPHC Event To Step Up Black Culture Week
by Jason La - Staff Writer
Friday, May 20, 2005

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) will host its annual Yard Show tomorrow on the UCen lawn as part of the 2005 Black Culture Week celebration.

The free event will last from 12 to 2 p.m. with a live DJ. The Black Student Union will host a raffle with prizes, and the show will feature performances from the Black Reign and Skyline dance troupes. Third-year law & society and black studies major Karen Everett, NPHC president, said the show is meant to serve dual purposes.

"It's not only a form of entertainment -- it's a time for us to educate the community about different aspects of black culture," she said.

Everett, who is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta sorority, said the Yard Show drew about 200 people last year. She said the NPHC used to host the show in Storke Plaza, but as the number of people attending grew, the organization had to relocate the event to the UCen lawn.

The dance routines at the event are called "stepping," where performers dance, clamp and stomp to create a beat.

"Stepping is a dance form that derives from African culture," Everett said. "It began as a song and dance routine, and it evolved into a more acrobatic or rhythmic performance."

Zakiyah Shepard, Black Reign dance team president, said the group performed at the Yard Show in previous years and drew a large crowd. She said last year's celebration was fun and is one of the last performances for Black Reign this year.

"We're going to do a hip hop dance -- real funk -- lots of flavor like we always do," Shepard said.

Rounding out the 2005 Black Culture Week celebrations, the Delta Sigma Theta sorority will put on the "Red Hot" barbeque from 2 to 4 p.m. in the UCen courtyard today. The Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity will host a bowling event Saturday night at Zodo's. On Sunday, Zeta Phi Beta is having a three-on-three basketball and dunking tournament Girsh Park in Goleta from 12 to 4 p.m. The winning three-person team will receive a $350 cash prize, while the dunking champion will be awarded a $50 prize.

Posted by Rashid on at 7:17 AM | Comments (0)

A Quiz from Laila

1. What is your occupation? Substitute Teacher/Novelist

2. What are you listening to right now? Russ Parr Morning Show

3. Best friend? I don't have a best friend. Several close friends, but no clique.

4. What was the last thing you ate? An ice cream sandwich last night. I know, not conducive to the workout plan.

5. Do you wish on stars? No.

6. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Silver

7. How is the weather right now? Sunny and clear, but still relatively cool.

8. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Ernest

9. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yeah! Laila is my dawg!

10. How old are you today? 25

11. Favorite drink? ginger ale

12. Favorite sport to watch? track & field!!! Tha bootay!

13. Ever died your hair? Naw, but once I put a temporary stripe down the middle for a day in high school.

14. Do you wear contacts? Yes

15. Pets? Two cats, Maxwell and Laila.

16. Favorite month? October, for homecomings and halloween.

17. Favorite food? Indian and Chinese

18. What was the last movie you watched? The Matrix Reloaded DVD

19. Favorite day of the year? Homecoming! Then maybe my birthday.

20. What do you do to vent anger? Cuss a LOT.

21. What was your favorite toy as a child? Castle Grayskull!

22. Fall or Spring? Fall.

23. Hugs or kisses? Both, but if I HAVE to pick, a hug usually can't go wrong.

24. Cherry or Blueberry? Cherry

25. Living arrangements? I live in a shack down by the river.

26. When was the last time you cried? The day before I ended things with him.

27. What is on the floor of your closet? Those huge plastic tubs with blankets inside.

28. Who is the friend you have had the longest nonstop? Jean-Ton and Joel -- Joel since 1995 and Jean-Ton since 1996.

29. What did you do last night? Watched the season finale of LOST!

30. Favorite smell? Cool Water cologne

31. What inspires you? Other writers who have made it.

32. What are you afraid of? Dying without having been loved the way I want to be loved.

33. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Cheese. What's a spicy hamburger?

34. Favorite car? Whichever kind can take me where I need to go.

35. Favorite dog breed? Who likes dogs? Ill. Does a jackal count?

36. Number of keys on your key ring? 3 (2 house keys and my PO Box)

37. How many years at your current job? Ending my second year.

38. Favorite day of the week? Friday

39. How many states have you lived in? 0 (I've always lived in DC, which is a federal district, not a state or a territory.

Posted by Rashid on at 6:52 AM | Comments (1)

15 Things You Probably Never Knew or Thought About

I got this email from one of my high school classmates. I had received it before, but I am glad he sent it today. I'm going to include my own commentary on it.

1. At least 5 people in this world love you so much they would die for you.
Well damn! There are only two people in this world who I KNOW would die for me -- my grandmother and my mother. I really don't think three other people would. In fact, I hope they wouldn't. Life is to precious to just be dying all willy nilly for the likes of me.

2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.
True. I can see that.

3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.
I think some people might hate me because I AM just like them. I don't subscribe to the "jealously as the root of all strife" theory. Some people probably GENUINELY dislike me -- I'm cool with that! I can't change how people feel about me, and hell, I'm not perfect.

4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
I wish some random bama I dislike would smile at me -- PLEASE! So I KNOW my smile ain't gonna make my enemies happy, lol.

5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
I believe it. I've no idea who, but I believe it.

6. You mean the world to someone.
BUT WHO?????? We're talkin the WORLD here -- I need to know who that is.

7. If not for you, someone may not be living.
Well damn! I saved somebody's life?

8. You are special and unique.
True that, true that. ;-)

9. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
Again...who??? How can somebody I don't know exists actually love me? (The only reasonable explanation would be a child I don't know about, but I certainly haven't impregnated anyone.)

10. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.
I agree.

11. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.
That is some good ass advice.

12. When you think you have no chance of getting what you want, you probably won't get it, but if you believe in yourself, probably, sooner or later, you will get it.
For better or for worse.

13. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
That's definitely a goal of mine.

14. Always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know.
I AGREE. I always try to do so.

15. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.
I do and I will. :-)

Posted by Rashid on May 25, 2005 at 7:07 PM | Comments (0)

Blogging from work

Woo hoo, woo hoo hoo.
Woo hoo, woo hoo hoo.
Woo hoo, woo hoo.
Woo hoo, woo hoo hoo.

I started my morning in a really pissy, about to cry, not really feeling like being here mood. Then my friend/co-worker had her own issues, so I ain't get to vent how I wanted to. But it was all good -- the kids were pretty amazing so far. I'm thankful for them.

Except for the pee-pee girl, but the rest are good.

I am thinking maybe I need to write down a comprehensive list of everything I REALLY need in a significant other. Like one of those lists that Kameelah from Real World: Boston had. Not that I don't know what I'm looking for, but so I can remind myself what I DON'T need.

We'll see.

Posted by Rashid on at 10:02 AM

Another Day

I'm staying strong.

A friend/co-worker of mine is going through a similar situation, so I got somebody to empathize with.

Here and there, I wonder if I'm doing the right thing. But I look back and see the love I have given and how it was unreciprocated -- not only that, but how it was almost encouraged. You know? At some point, one of us has to man up and say "We can't do this anymore."

Ugh....he is determined to see me this weekend, too. I believe in karma, so I'm not going to be mean to him for no reason -- but he's not my friend. I don't love him. I don't like him. I want him to leave me alone for good. I don't like who I am when I love him -- and I don't like being led to believe that one day he could love me.

If he could love me, he could also come out.

If he could love me, he wouldn't have "straight" listed on his MySpace profile.

If he could love me, he would have seen me the night he came into DC to go to DREAM.

I wish he had never ever EVER sent me that initial message. These past six months have been a pure waste. I've been here before and I never thought I'd make past mistakes.

But I've learned to trust my gut and not ignore the early warning signs. We're talking first five minute warning signs. I can't give someone I don't know a second chance, you know?

I probably still sound REAL crazy.

I'm just looking forward to Pride and making a lot of connections with other gay black men. Not even love connections, just networking. Shoot, people will read this blog and know I am damaged goods, LOLOL.

*le sigh*

I'm fine. I will be fine.

Posted by Rashid on at 7:26 AM

Craziness

Shit is CRAZZZZZZYYYYYYY

So I completely and permanently blocked him from my life. Deleted all his contact info from Outlook, deleted and blocked him from Myspace, took his number out my phone, deleted ALL emails and photos of him from my hard drive, and blocked his IP address from visiting my website.

I wasn't playing. I do not want to hear from him, down to even seeing his stats on my site.

So why does this motherfucker email me and tell me I'm being ridiculous?

No....ridiculous is spending six months loving someone who doesn't love you back. I refuse, you hear me? I REFUSE to go down this road again.

I've got so much else I need to say about this, but not now. Maybe not ever, to the public at least. But I can't move on with him in my life -- I never did want to be his friend. I wanted to be his man.

Posted by Rashid on May 24, 2005 at 11:10 PM

People I'd Like to Hear From (Update)

Mustafa Ahmed (Coolidge, Class of '94)
Jennifer Ali (Wilson, Class of '95)
Chanell Arrington (Coolidge, Class of '95)
Ilich Briones (Coolidge, Class of '95)
Lauren Arrington (Sidwell Friends, Class of '97)
Ezenwayni Ahaghotu (Coolidge, Class of '97)
Asia Davison (Last known whereabouts: Newark and Lodi, CA)
Jibreel Dawkins (Possibly Eastern, Class of '97)
Matt Dobson (HOBY Seminar Director in 96 or 97 -- moved away, forgot where)
Derold Carr (Coolidge, Class of '96 -- Probably in the area, just not looking that hard)
Kenneth Greeley (Dunbar '97, attended GWU)
Socrates Morilla (DePauw, probably class of 2000)
Sara Jane Jenkins (Huron, OH; went to Bowling Green State and got married!)
Lakisha Owens (Coolidge, 97)
Patricia Romanoski (Teacher at Rabaut)
Ryan Richmond (NYU '01)
Vanessa Salcedo (St. Agnes, '96)
Courtney Snowden (School Without Walls, '97)FOUND!!!
Jennise Wood (Coolidge, '99)
Jennifer Yeager (Coolidge, '97)

Posted by Rashid on at 5:55 PM | Comments (0)

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to those who are unbridled, untrammeled, and free.

In love, you feel the most alive when your lover is creative and never lets you feel bored.

You'd like to your lover to think you are stylish and alluring.

You would be forced to break up with someone who was insecure and in constant need of reassurance.

Your ideal relationship is open. Both of you can talk about everything... no secrets.

Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment.

You think of marriage as something precious. You'll treasure marriage and treat it as sacred.

In this moment, you think of love as something you thirst for. You'll do anything for love, but you won't fall for it easily.

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

Posted by Rashid on May 23, 2005 at 7:11 PM | Comments (1)

Responses

So....I had no idea I wasn't getting notification for my comments. I thought y'all were just some heartless monsters, LOL. Sorry for the delay in responding.

KARSH: I hear you. To be honest, my feelings as we talked with one another we very stable (for once). I had the breakdown before the "break-up." It works out quite nicely.

RAHSHEK: Thanks for the comments....and thanks for the link to your blog, I appreciate it!

NASHEED: I am not upset at not getting what I want. (Though I am incredibly disappointed, the rejection was not a surprise.) I am upset because he knew how I felt and took advantage of it. I understand your points though, and your advice is valuable.

KEN W: The roll won't be slowing, it has stopped, LOL. Much love.

PERQUITA: YUP! That's what I said!!! lol

JAIMI: Thanks...you know me. Sometimes I trip about whether I did the right thing or not. But I know that eliminating him from my everyday routine is the right thing to do. No calls, no emails, no IMs. Works for me!

ROD: I agree. (Well, of course, lol) Now really is a fine time to be selfish...with my career what it is and my travel about to really increase. Maybe it's just time to focus on having fun.

TIANA: You know me so well, girl. We already talked about this, but I still agree wholeheartedly.

KENNETH: I hear you man, I really do. I'll check out your site shortly.

Thank you one and all....I am fine. I really am. There will be more sadness and regret, but I think that having him out of my life is best. I will continue to grow, heal, mature...have fun, meet people. All that.

:-)

Posted by Rashid on May 21, 2005 at 12:55 PM | Comments (2)

I really want this paddle!

Isn't this a nice paddle?

I soooooo want this paddle when I grow up, LOL. That joint is 65 bucks! It's good workmanship though. If you want it for yourself, click here to be directed to the ebay auction for it.

Posted by Rashid on at 10:46 AM | Comments (2)

Without Him, I'm Something

Rashid: How did you honestly feel about what I wrote to you on the white covered book*? [the book was a copy of lazarus that had a plain white cover, and i wrote this message on the outside of it to him. it said "I plan on doing whatever it takes to be with you"]

Him: I was touched- I thought it was very sweet. I know you were serious about what you said.

Rashid: Do you ever think about "us?"

Him: Occassionally

Rashid: I like you more than you like me. Would you agree with that?

Him: I like you a lot, but I do think u like me more than I like you

Rashid: How does that make you feel?

Him: It doesn't make me feel any type of way other than happy that I have another person who cares for me in my life

Rashid: And how do you think that makes me feel?

Him: I'm not quite sure

Rashid: It makes me feel like you're being selfish.

Him: How so?
Him: Do u want me not to like you at all?
Him: Do u want me to hate you because you like me?

Rashid: I want you to understand that I want to be with you, and it's not fair to accept the things I give you (emotional things, not necessarily physical) if you can't give me the same in return.

Him: If I sent that book back to you, how would you feel?

Rashid: It's not about sending the book back to me. It's about addressing the sentiments that were involved. Do you want me to keep pursuing you with the objective of making you my man?

Him: I now feel as if u are trying to guilt me into liking you more than I do- that's not fair

Rashid: Nooooo I don't want to guilt you into liking me more, *him*. I don't even think that's possible to do. I want you to realize that when you accept these things from me without really letting me know that there isn't a chance, it gives me false hope into thinking there can really be an "us" some day.

Him: Brb

Rashid: And if I think about you all the time, and you think of me occasionally, that's not laying the groundwork for something bigger. That's a lopsided relationship.

Rashid: ok

[an hour later]

Rashid: You there?
Him: Yes
Him: But I'm about to leave out soon

Rashid: So I guess you're finished talking about this?

Him: We can talk about it if you like, I just don't think I can talk for long

Rashid: There's nothing more to talk about. I'm not going to continue sharing myself with you.
Rashid: It's time for me to be selfish now.

Him: Ok
Him: Be selfish Rah

Rashid: I'll try -- not sure that I can top you though.
Rashid: Be well.

Him: U too

Then I called him and told him this would be the last time I spoke to him and that I didn’t want to hear from him anymore. I told him if he is so moved to send me the book back (a white covered book that i had written the message on) to just throw it away instead, because I don’t want to hear from him at all.

I asked him if he could even see where I was coming from or if he still felt like I was guilt tripping him. His response: I don’t know. I asked if he didn’t know or if he didn’t care, he said he didn’t know.

So I said Peace.

The Comments section is open.

Posted by Rashid on May 19, 2005 at 6:50 PM | Comments (11)

" !"

This is how I feel.

Posted by Rashid on at 4:25 PM

Finally

My oldgoldsoul account is FINALLY acting right. If you haven't noticed, my site has been hella slow the past two days. But it seems to be acting right, so that's one less thing to worry about.

I need to find a more efficient way

Wow, I TOTALLY zoned out for a few minutes and have no idea what I was going to say. I guess that means I have a lot on my mind. I was kind of upset last night, seemingly about nothing in particular. But i KNEW something was wrong, and it was related to him.

It's weird how I am so intuitive about certain things but allow myself to be clouded in uncertainty when it comes to other things.

Every now and then, the solution -- or really, the core of the matter -- is revealed to me, but for some reason, I don't want to deal with it.

A message was sent.....the core of my uncertainty is the response to the message. I didn't think at the time that the response was inadequate, but then I thought about it...I don't really know what he thinks about the message. I don't know how he feels that no matter what, I am going to pursue him.

He didn't tell me not to pursue him. But if the shoe was on the other foot, would I be able to TELL someone "Hey, stop pursuing me, this will never in a million years work out?"

I want him bad. I've never gone after someone like this before. I feel like Sami Brady in this piece. (If you don't know, don't ask.)

Jeez this is turning pretty personal. I don't know how to deal with this anymore. It seems like every time I have a "deep" conversation with someone, it's never positive. It never works out with me on top.

I don't feel sorry for myself, those are just facts.

I hope that whoever I end up with in the long run understands that I am emotional and communicative. That's not going to change any time soon. But in exchange, I offer lots of love, devotion, and loyalty.

Maybe the emotions drive people away. That's the common denominator as far as I can see it.

I'm not going to bring it up with him. I'm not hiding it (clearly)...but if he wants to discuss it, here I is. I've got too much other stress in my life to go around pursuing extra stress. If it's gonna be anything, lets let it be something. If it's not, let me know. Limbo sucks. I'm going to need more than a one word response to the message.

BTW....I remember now what I had wanted to say: I need to find a more efficient way to post my fraternity round-up. Like, if I could copy and paste all the articles at one time, that would be GREAT! lol

Posted by Rashid on at 7:04 AM

1 Place

My heart is only in one place right now.

And that's real shit.

I'm at that point where I've got like a thousand poems in me and they get all jumbled up then stop when I try to write them.

Posted by Rashid on May 18, 2005 at 7:21 PM

Mr. Darden: Cool Sub

I took this pic one day when I subbed for the sixth grade class I like. It happened to be class picture day, but they also took individual pictures of all the students and teachers.

Not bad, eh?

Posted by Rashid on May 17, 2005 at 2:18 PM | Comments (9)

The Answers II

Nasheed writes:

Ooooh, questions about romance? I have a couple.
1. Beyond the individual qualities that you find attractive in any man, what particular "type(s)" of guys are you drawn to (despite reason or despite yourself)?

2. Looking back on your relationship patterns, has your involvement with guys who fit your type(s) been healthy for you (or not)?

1. I am attracted to "eclectic" guys....men who like lots of different things, listen to all types of music, and don't necessarily fit into the traditional "hip-hop" category. That's not to say I'm not attracted to people who are "hip-hop" -- it's just that eclectic guys match the things I like, grew up with, or can grow to appreciate. Example: A black man who knows and appreciates the music of David Bowie gets way more cool points that one who only listens to rap or R&B.

These types of guys don't look a particular way.... I was attracted to the late Tymex. We never dated or anything, but I was instantly intrigued by the fact that this little black man had this huge green afro.

Black guys who are into comic books are also way cool. The elements of my own life that I don't get to share with many of my friends are the same elements that I look for in a mate.

2. It's not that the relationships I've had with said guys have been unhealthy...it's that they just don't really work out.

Take J-Pan for example....all my old head bloggers remember him. We are talking years and years of a complicated dance between he and I. We were polar opposites on the surface, but on the inside, we had a lot in common. They were things that I don't readily share with the word.

But things didn't work. As is usually the case, he didn't want the same thing from me that I wanted from him. That's the common denominator in my failed relationships. Most people would rather have me as a friend, which is really code for "I'm not that into you."

Sucks, but true.

I don't think my bad luck in relationships is necessarily connected to the kind of guys I like. I've dated fraternity men, young professionals, quasi-thugs....coming-out issues and "just not into me" issues are always what ends things.

And yes, sometimes that works in reverse, too. I've definitely dated dudes I just wasn't feeling, and I should have told them so early on. I try not to do that anymore though. It's so much easier to have very high standards and early deal-breakers than it is to date someone who thinks you might really like them, but you in fact don't.

Just my opinions.

Posted by Rashid on at 9:48 AM | Comments (0)

Two Online Reviews

LAZARUS: A Novel A review by Rod at Rod Online 2.0 Beta.

LAZARUS, come forth! A review by Malik at the BrothaLove RantSpace.

I am so grateful for these wonderful reviews!!! Please support these two bloggers, okay?

And don't forget the FIRST review at Sunpiper Press by Robert Denson, III!

Posted by Rashid on at 7:20 AM | Comments (1)

What would yo do

If you were able to spend only one night with me, what are 5 things you would want to do?

SEND BACK TO ME WITH UR ANSWERS!! THEN POST THIS URSELF... U'LL B SUPRISED WITH WHAT PEOPLE SAID BOUT U!

Posted by Rashid on at 6:50 AM | Comments (3)

The Answers

Kristal asks:

If you could have a threesome with two other men who and why??

Wow. I wasn't ready for that one!

Lenny Kravitz and Robert Ri'chard. For now, at least.

Jaqua asks:

What was the most freakiest sexual thing you have ever done, and the most outlandish place you have ever had sex?

Oh my gosh....to be perfectly honest, I have never done anything exually that would be defined as freaky. Just freaky people. Which would be a Que or two. The most outlandish place would be on my roommate's bed in undergrad. But not with my roommate.

This is embarassing. :-/

Perquita asks:

This maybe considered a dumb ass question, but I'm going to ask anyhow. How are you planning on having children? Are your hopes to have them biologically, adopt or both. Just curious. Either way, you would be a wonderful father.

No question is dumb ass! And thanks for the compliment!

If I am relatively broke for the rest of my life, then I will adopt. DC does not discriminate against gays and lesbians or single people who want to adopt children though the city. I was very encouraged when I heard this.

If I enjoy a certain amount of wealth, I would like to both adopt and have a surrogate. It means a lot to me to have a child who is related to me by blood.

I would not choose any of my existing friends to carry the child. It just becomes way too complicated. Plus I am already crazy, and so are all my friends. If I recruit a good surrogate, at least the kid has a 50-50 chance at sanity. :-)

Great question.

Karai asks:

what's your perspective on the right way to sustain/grow a gay relationship? (due to the fact that they do evolve at a fast pace, sometimes it's hard to keep from just becomin cut buddies and ending it...feel me?)

Wow, that's a hard question!

Communication is always key. You have GOT to communicate your feelings if you want things to work. You can't say nothing and assume your partner understands. I have had my heart broken too many times by dudes who said they wanted me but changed their minds, but still kept me around.

As it pertains to gay relationships in particular, I believe that the same level of "outness" is paramount. Men on the DL who fall in love with men who are out need to either get over it and move on or have plans to come out. It's not fair to a man who is out to have to go back in the closet because his lover isn't ready. I do think it's POSSIBLE to cultivate a relationship with a man who isn't as out as you are if you BOTH communicate well from the outset.

And finally...gay men should be ENCOURAGED. It's simply not true that gay relationships don't last. We just don't think they don't last becase we don't hang out with gay men in their fifties. :-) Do you REALLY think Deacon Smith and Deacon Jones are "just roommates" after 60 years??? lol

Kenneth asks:

Hey it's your fan again. Don't think of me as a stalker. Why is it that a person as connected and seemingly sincere and beautiful inside [is] intolerably single?

That's the million dollar question.

I don't know.

Posted by Rashid on May 16, 2005 at 9:38 AM

Round-Up for May 14, 2005

NPHC handles outdoor dispute: Northwestern

Kappa Alpha Psi and Alpha Phi Alpha fraternities engaged in an altercation near Bobb
by Marcy Miranda
May 10, 2005

Several altercations early Friday morning involving two rival fraternities were provoked by a non-Northwestern student at a fraternity initiation ceremony Thursday night, said the president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, the organization that governs the historically black Greek system.

During Thursday's Alpha Phi Alpha probate, where new members of the fraternity were presented to other NPHC fraternities and sororities, a balled up piece of paper was thrown in the direction of Alpha neophytes -- the new members of the fraternity -- on the basketball courts outside of Bobb Hall and McCulloch Hall, witnesses said.

NPHC President Jonathan Reynolds said witnesses thought that a member of Kappa Alpha Psi threw the paper -- a disrespectful gesture that "Alpha Phi Alpha had a right to question," he said. But after five NHPC organizations held a meeting with university administrators, they decided that the paper probably was thrown by a student who is a member of another university's chapter.

After the probate, members of Alpha Phi Alpha and Kappa Alpha Psi were involved in four to six disturbances with four to 10 people involved in each altercation, said Asst. Chief Daniel McAleer of University Police.

A resident assistant called University Police to report unauthorized people in the area around 11:06 p.m. Thursday, according to McAleer. UP sent four officers to the basketball courts, where they estimated the crowd to be about 80 to 100 people. After noting that nothing was happening, three of the officers left the scene and left one officer behind to monitor the event.

The altercations broke out around 12:39 a.m. Friday. More UP officers arrived, and the crowd moved out of the basketball courts and into the Sports Pavillion and Aquantic Center parking lot. After the altercation, UP estimated the crowd grew to 150 people.

Evanston Police Department officers were called to assist with crowd control, McAleer said.

UP officers gave verbal warnings and were able to contain the altercations with "minimum or no police intervention," McAleer said. There were no reported weapons or injuries, and no arrests.

Because the incident probably was started by a student outside of NU, Reynolds said, there will be no repercussions or penalties for either of the fraternities.

Kyle Pendleton, director of fraternity and sorority life, could not be reached for comment Monday.

It is not uncommon for members of fraternities from surrounding chapters to attend events like probates in support of their organizations, said Reynolds, who is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. He also said there have been no other instances where non-NU chapters caused trouble.

There are other Alpha Phi Alpha chapters at Roosevelt University in downtown Chicago, Chicago State University and a joint chapter for the University of Illinois at Chicago and Loyola University Chicago. Kappa Alpha Psi has another a chapter at the University of Chicago.

"I think it was a misunderstanding, and all the police that came escalated the attention drawn to it," said Weinberg junior Ketica Guter of Delta Sigma Theta sorority, who witnessed the event. "There was miscommunication between the frats."

Reynolds agreed that the police response magnified the situation.

"The nature in which the police responded to the situation sent the perception that it was a much bigger thing," Reynolds said.

NHPC hopes to initiate a forum with UP to discuss the way in which the police responded to the situation.

"Responses like that take the focus away from the positive things these communities do," Reynolds said. "They put the focus on the one minor incident that is completely magnified."

The rivalry between the two fraternities is healthy, Reynolds said. It is comparable to the rivalries between other fraternities on campus, he said.

"Everyone has an affinity to their organization," Reynolds said.

First-Ever Children's Book Published About Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Atlanta, GA (BlackNews.com) - Fresh Publishing, LLC has done it again with the release of its forthcoming title My Mommy Is An AKA due to release on Mothers Day, 2005. Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority will be impressed with the dynamic portrayal of their great organization in this first-ever children's book about the first African American sorority ever established.
Fresh Publishing and Teach Me Greek continue with their mission of releasing educational periodicals about the positive influences of the Divine 9 African American greek lettered organizations and author Audra P. Jackson continues to depict all organizations at the highest levels of excellence in her vibrant, colorful children's book series.

When asked how she can write about other organizations, Audra simply states, "All of our organizations were based on the same premise, public service and the cultural, social and civic betterment of our communities. The historical information of all of our organizations is public domain, and since I am a writer, I do extensive research, have focus groups from each of the organizations to help keep me in line and I let my natural, creative talent and ability do the rest."

Her natural talent continues to pay off as the resounding appreciation for this trend setting idea is noted throughout the African American greek community to the music industry where she was a publicist and marketing executive for many years. Audra has also received many accolades for her literary contributions including those from New Jersey's Secretary of State, Regena Thomas as well as a congressional recognition and an official proclamation from Dr. Joyce Beatty from the Ohio House of Representatives just to name a few.

Audra's unique delivery of information about fraternities and sororities continues to keep members in the greek community happy as they struggled to find periodicals to explain their organizations to their children.

Fresh Publishing has managed to fill a void in the marketplace for positive children's books about African American fraternities and sororities and honestly boasts the originators of the Divine Nine children's book series. "All of my sorority sisters will be really proud of My Mommy Is An AKA, it is truly a one of a kind, literary masterpiece and an heirloom to pass down to our children that is done in a cute and colorful format promoting literacy," states AKA member Cheryl Bell from the Atlanta Tribune.

Interested parties will have a one-of a kind opportunity to meet the author and personally get their book signed on Saturday, May 7th at Tarrazu Gourmet Coffee Bar located at 265 Ponce DeLeon Avenue, N.E., in Midtown Atlanta from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Executive Realty Group and A Class Scholars Day Care are sponsoring the event, which will prove to be an exciting and fun filled afternoon for those patrons receiving their books one day prior to the release date of Mothers Day, Sunday, May 8th. The only other way to receive a specially autographed copy of the book is to be one of the first 100 pre-ordered copies at www.teachmegreek.com or call 1-866-302-2669. The retail price is $18.99 plus tax.

The first-ever children's book series chronicles the nine existing, also known as the Divine 9 African American greek letter organizations in an inspiring light that will educate young children and youth about the positive influences of sororities and fraternities and their historical contribution to African American culture and history as we know it today. Other titles in the series include: My Mommy is a Delta (www.mymommyisadelta.com), My Mommy is a Sigma Gamma Rho (Mothers Day 2006), My Mommy is a Zeta (Mothers Day 2006), My Daddy is a Kappa (Christmas 2005), My Daddy is an Omega (Christmas 2005) My Daddy is an Alpha (Fathers Day, 2005), My Daddy is a Phi Beta Sigma, (Fathers Day, 2006) and My Daddy is an Iota Phi Theta (Fathers Day, 2006). Visit www.teachmegreek.com for these other titles.

Stanford: Alpha Kappa Alpha hosts 11th Dating Game

By Jenny Allen
Senior Staff Writer
Friday, May 6, 2005

Even though the participants of Stanford’s 11th annual Alpha Kappa Alpha Dating Game were not alive when the original show aired in the 1960s and 1970s, the event’s popularity rivaled its vintage namesake. Manzanita Dining Hall, artfully decorated with the sorority’s colors, green and pink, was packed with by the time the program began at 8:30 p.m. yesterday.
The game consisted of three rounds — two with three bachelors competing for one eligible bachelorette, and one with the situation reversed. Audience members participated as eligible bachelor and bachelorettes, and off-campus contestants were included for the first time in the event’s history.

Questions posed to the potential suitors included: I just won a trip for two to the Bahamas, why should I take you with me? Describe the perfect meal you would cook for us. If I were in a candy shop, what kind of sweet would you be? And do you wear boxers or briefs and can you please show the audience?

Contestants’ voices were scrambled so that the selector could not identify them. Audience members assisted during the decision-making process by applauding for one of the three contenders.

“People need to know that there is dating at Stanford,” said senior Shani Fregia, co-chair of AKA’s Dating Game. “We just wanted students to come out and have fun, which they clearly did.”

Co-chair Taurean Brown, a senior, said, “This is my third time being involved with this event and even though I knew what to expect, it’s something I still find very entertaining, especially after a long week of midterms. Participants get an all-expenses-paid date and possibly meet a new friend and maybe make a love connection.”

Fregia noted that AKA’s Dating Game falls under the sorority’s national goal of promoting healthy relationships.

The winning couples received gift certificates donated by nearby Cecila’s Mexican restaurant, California Pizza Kitchen, Nola Restaurant and Bar and Pasta? for a romantic dinner date. Other participants had the opportunity to meet someone special during the mixing and mingling party held before and after the show.

“A lot of people may think our programming is only for the Black student population, but it is really catering to the entire Stanford community,” Brown said. AKA is one of Stanford’s black-interest sororities.

The Dating Game is one of the highlights of AKA’s programming week. Today, the Greek group is organizing a barbeque at the Caravan House, a residential group home for at-risk teenage girls. A discussion about the history and achievements of black women is planned for this Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in Tresidder Union.

U. Texas - Arlington Ques: Doing it For the Children Comedian Rickey Smiley helps make charity game a success

By Princess McDowell
The Shorthorn Staff

Comedian Rickey Smiley stole the show at Thursday’s Omega Psi Phi fraternity-sponsored basketball tournament, but he did it without telling jokes or performing his signature imitation of preteen “Lil’ Darrell.”

Smiley attended the event benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Arlington and played for a few minutes in the featured game between the Mu Beta chapter of Omega Psi Phi fraternity and 97.9 FM. He also took time to sign autographs and pose for pictures.

The tournament is part of the weeklong series of events held by the fraternity, which will also include a comedy show and picnic. The group went on Smiley’s radio show Thursday morning to invite people, and Smiley expressed his plan to attend every function.

Jason Hamilton, music business junior and Omega Psi Phi member, said this year’s event was more successful than last year in terms of donations and attendance.

“We did a better job of publicizing it,” he said. “Rickey Smiley definitely brought more people.”

Some from the crowd played basketball in the Activities Building while the latest hip-hop music blared from nearby speakers.

Once the game got underway, both teams kept the audience entertained with hustle plays and dunks that rattled the backboards. Delton Diggles, who played for team 97.9, said he enjoyed playing on the same court as Smiley.

“He made some good passes,” he said.

Through the attention Smiley garnered, the event raised close to $175 for the Boys and Girls Club. Hamilton said that was a big jump from the $30 earned last year.

Smiley, who is a member of the Psi Rho chapter of Omega Psi Phi, said the main reason he came was to help the fraternity’s donation efforts.

“I came to support and raise money for the kids,” he said. “And to hang out with the frat.”

Omega Psi Phi eventually won the game, 68-61, and all members present celebrated by strutting at center court.

Graphic design junior Melissa King said events that benefit charities are a positive thing.

“I think it was a great event and a good way to bring people together,” she said.

Princeton University confronts Greek life

Monday, May 9, 2005
CAMPUS LIFE

Christian Burset
Princetonian Senior Writer

About a year ago, in a second-floor classroom in Frist Campus Center, there was a meeting that would have been unthinkable only four years earlier.

The Committee on the Freshman Experience, chaired by Dean of Undergraduate Students Kathleen Deignan, had called a meeting with representatives of the campus' fraternities and sororities.

The leaders of Greek life came reluctantly, not seeing much to gain from such a meeting and fearful they could become targets of University action.

Though the University does not recognize fraternities and sororities, about 15 percent of the student body joins them. For several years, a silent conflict had developed between proponents of Greek life and administrators worried about its impact on undergraduate life — from social division early in freshman year to hazing and alcohol abuse.

A chief concern of administrators was the timing of rush, Greek organizations' recruiting and admissions process durimg the first month of school.

At the meeting, the Committee asked fraternities and sororities to delay rush to January or February.

The fraternity and sorority leaders soundly rejected the request. The meeting went nowhere.

After this, the conflict between the groups and the administration became much sharper.

That summer, without consulting students, Deignan and Vice President for Campus Life Janet Dickerson sent a letter to incoming freshmen to discourage them from joining fraternities and sororities. The move incensed Greek leaders, though they said it had a negligible impact on membership. The administration plans to send a similar letter this summer.

"It was like they were saying, 'thanks for coming to the meeting, we're glad we talked — and screw you,' " said Evan Baehr '05, who attended last spring's meeting on behalf of a fraternity he asked not be identified.

The University's interest in minimizing the role of Greek life comes during a major revamping of the undergraduate experience. The appearance of four-year residential colleges in two years and other efforts to divert attention from the Street — some students and administrators see fraternities and sororities as feeders into selective eating clubs — emphasize the administration's desire to make undergraduate life as inclusive as possible and largely based inside the colleges.

While administrators currently do not plan to have an official policy on Greek groups, which were banned from 1855 to 1940, many students believe the University is waging an increasingly overt war against them.

The administration's interest in Greek life became public in October 2000, when Dickerson broke with the University's previous silence by announcing her intention to talk to fraternity and sorority leaders about their role on campus. "When I came to Princeton, they told me there were no Greek organizations," Dickerson said in an interview.

Five years later, it seems that little has been accomplished.

"There was no relationship" between Greek organizations and the University before last year's meeting, said a former fraternity president on the condition of anonymity. "There is still no relationship."

Speaking specifically about the letter, he said, "Typically the kids who are going to rush fraternities are not going to be swayed . . . by any kind of letter from the administration."

When to rush

At last year's meeting, fraternity and sorority leaders adamantly defended early rush, citing their desire to maximize interaction between freshmen and upperclass members. Recently, however, some sorority and fraternity members have relaxed their opposition to delaying rush.

Kerry Willoughby '05, a Pi Beta Phi member and former president of Princeton's Panhellenic Council, suggested late last month moving rush to November as a compromise.

When told about it, Deignan welcomed the idea.

But some students and administrators doubted that Greek organizations would delay rush. Rush is timed, they said, to capitalize on freshmen's social inexperience.

The former fraternity president agreed that the goal of holding it early in the term is to attract as many freshmen as possible.

"I really enjoyed my fraternity experience. But in leadership positions, you formulate strategies where you want to get to kids early and influence their opinions because you want to build your organization," he said. "You could say it's manipulative."

The administration's concern is that freshmen feel pressured to join Greek organizations when they are socially vulnerable. They also worry that early rush restricts exploring social and extracurricular activities.

Dickerson said she'd like "the first hundred days of the freshmen experience [to] be relatively free of hazing and pledging and enticing events that distract students from what we think are some of the more engaging aspects of freshman year campus life."

Greek life on campus

Fraternities and sororities play a unique role in Princeton's social scene. Unlike the frat houses seen on other campuses, Princeton's social scene is dominated by eating clubs, which have 100 to 200 members each. Rather than forming a separate center, fraternities and sororities mainly help students navigate Princeton's larger social life through lunches and dinners with members, off-campus excursions and community service.

Greek organizations vary in size and attitude. The campus's three historically black sororities — Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta — hardly fit into Princeton's model for Greek life. They emphasize community service and delay rush until sophomore year, which makes administrators more positive about their impact on campus life.

In most of the other Greek organizations on campus, alcohol plays a large role in many parts of Greek life. That deeply concerns the University administration.

"[W]hile we recognize that some students join fraternities and sororities primarily for the opportunity to participate in a smaller community of friends," Deignan said, "we know that others join primarily because they perceive a readily available access to alcohol."

Deignan said hazing — banned under New Jersey law and University policy — presents another danger.

"I am aware of many situations where freshman pledges (mostly in fraternities) were put at physical risk or were subjected to humiliating hazing rituals as part of their pledging," Deignan said. "This is very distressing, not only to those of us who are charged with the wellbeing of undergraduates, but also to roommates and others who often worry about their friends."

Fraternities and sororities have tried to get around some University policies that restrict alcohol consumption. Some members said their organizations tend to use hard liquor in response to the ban on kegs in dormitories. Though rush is officially dry, alcohol flows freely at many recruiting events. "Greek life is just one big pre-game," said a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, about the practice of drinking before going out to the eating clubs.

"They always respected whether or not you wanted to drink, but they encouraged drinking a lot," said a freshman who pledged a fraternity and dropped out. "Then again, if you're pledging, you're probably looking for good guys to drink with."

The pledging process varies widely. One visible example is the sight of new fraternity members standing outside McCosh Hall all day dressed like Secret Service agents. Some pledging activities are more strenuous — Dickerson said she heard reports of pledges having to walk home from Lawrenceville or go as far as Buffalo, N.Y., for a scavenger hunt.

But some observers don't agree that Greek life is as problematic as the administration suggests.

Nitesh Paryani '05, an RCA in Wilson Collge, oversaw a group of fraternity members who lived in a large suite in Dodge-Osborne Hall last year. He said the group was respectful of its neighbors and of University policy.

"They make an honest effort to integrate themselves into University life and obey all the rules of the University," Paryani said.

Recognition and concern

About 700 students are in fraternities or sororities at any given time. This year, 138 students rushed sororities. Each of the three sororities that participated in rush this fall — Kappa Alpha Theta, Kappa Kappa Gamma and Pi Beta Phi — offered 36 bids, so that 98 percent of those who completed rush received a bid. Delta Delta Delta, whose charter was revoked this year, did not participate in formal rush. About 200 students rushed fraternities, with a little more than half receiving bids. Sororities all generally have more than 100 members, but fraternities range in size from 10 members to 50.

With that kind of membership — and the funding that comes from dues — fraternities and sororities don't have much interest in University recognition.

"It's pretty clear to me that these organizations don't want full recognition as a student organization," said Associate Dean of Undergraduate Students Thomas Dunne. "With recognition comes a whole host of responsibilities, such as registering all events, and maintaining all financial records in the dean's office."

Dues vary from organization to organization, but most charge around $500 per year.

"It's difficult for me to resolve the relationships the students have to their national organizations, in which they are charged what I see as very high membership dues, that go off-campus to support the national organization," Dunne said.

Administrators still point to public incidents where they think the problems with Greek life are evident. Pi Beta Phi recently had to pay $4,155 to compensate the Nottingham fire company for damages the sorority caused to the firehouse during an event last month.

"This behavior was clearly disrespectful of the property and sensibilities of others," Deignan said. "We have had complaints before from other establishments and bus companies who called to report vandalism and disorderly and disrespectful conduct displayed by fraternity and sorority members toward their property and employees ... It does not surprise me that colleges and universities with recognized Greek systems are frequently required to impose disciplinary sanctions or periodically take steps to remove them from their campuses."

Deeper questions

Underlying the debate over the place of Greek groups is a deeper question: Are fraternities and sororities antithetical to the residential atmosphere Princeton wants to support?

Other Ivy League institutions' attitudes toward Greek life vary widely. Cornell has an official Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs, whose website reports that 30 percent of the student population belongs to a Greek organization. The University of Pennsylvania also has over a quarter of students participating in Greek life.

Harvard, however, does not recognize Greek organizations. Fraternities at Harvard are largely seen as alternatives to the exclusive, all-male finals clubs.

At Princeton, administrators recognize that fraternity and sorority members believe their organizations offer a chance for underclassmen to form unique bonds with upperclassmen.

"Many students have told me that their sororities and fraternities have provided smaller communities of friends that helped them quickly feel 'at home' within the larger University," Deignan said.

But she questioned whether Greek groups, with their focus on alcohol and exclusivity, are the best way to accomplish this.

"At a time when the colleges are working hard to create a welcoming environment for all students and a sense of unity among the newest members of our community, these organizations are rushing and selecting some students and not others," she said.

Dunne worried about the effect of rush on students who don't get in. "[It] is different from not getting a bid for an a capella or dance group," he said. "It's different to be told, 'you're just not a good enough singer,' from a more amorphous, 'we just don't want to hang out with you.' "

Frances Schendle '06, a member of both a sorority and the freshman experience committee, said membership in a Greek group doesn't dominate a member's life. Greek members, she said, are involved in many other activities.

"Students at Princeton aren't going to be defined by three Greek letters," she said. "They know when they join that this is just one part of who they are, and rush isn't going to change that."

Some students and administrators also expressed concern that Greek life could compound the exclusivity of Bicker, the selective process used to gain admission to some eating clubs.

"I don't think its any secret to students that certain frats and sororities are feeders to certain eating clubs," said Leslie-Bernard Joseph '06, current USG president and a member of the freshman experience committee. "It funnels you into a social clique for perhaps the rest of your four years on campus."

But Baehr, the fraternity member, disagreed with that view.

"It's just like if you're a member of a sports team," Baehr said. "The more people you know, the more who can support you."

SGRHo: Sorority members gather to honor mothers
Margaret Lampley chosen as group's mother of the year
BY CAROLYN P. SMITH
Posted on Sun, May. 08, 2005

EAST ST. LOUIS -- Just as they had for 56 years before, members of Sigma Gamma Rho sorority gathered for lunch Saturday to tell their mothers how much they were appreciated.
"Mothers are our link to the past, and they help direct our future. They represent the ultimate sacrifice," said Raquel Farmer-Hinton.

Farmer-Hinton is the daughter of Edna Farmer, a retired East St. Louis Senior High School English teacher. Farmer-Hinton is an English professor.

"I thank God for my mother. She's like a good reference book. I can go to her with work-related issues, or questions about my friends," Farmer-Hinton said.

"She always has good advice. She's also a source of inspiration and my greatest support."

Margaret Lampley was chosen mother of the year during the lunch at the Garfield Hubbard complex, 5801 State St. The 75-year-old is mother of Brenda Bush, former East St. Louis Mayor Gordon Bush's wife.

"My mother is my stabilizer. She means everything to me," Bush said.

Guest speaker Joyce McKinney said mothers leave legacies of laughter, loyalty, energy, encouragement, enthusiasm, giving, advocacy, admiration, caring and conviction.

Although her mother has died, McKinney said the luncheon gave her a chance to discuss her mother's life and show what she taught.

Brenda Hicks said her mother, Nellie Lowery, also is deceased, but she still cherishes the love and affection her mother gave. She said the wisdom her mother imparted was passed to her children.

The most important message her mother gave her was to "have love and compassion and to love God, herself and others," she said.

Posted by Rashid on May 14, 2005 at 7:22 AM | Comments (0)

Too Slow

I've reallllly got to do a better job at getting my ass in gear before work.

Posted by Rashid on May 12, 2005 at 8:10 AM | Comments (1)

What the...(a random entry encompassing all categories)

First of all....HI!

I've not been taking any calls this evening, and only placed one to him. Unfortunately, he got another call from someone he hadn't spoken to in a while, so I just said I'd talk to him tomorrow. I didn't really feel like playing the "waitupreallateandprayhecalls" game. Especially since I was already really tired and I know him -- he'd just fall asleep anyway. C'est la vie.

My boy Dwayne called me tonight and I checked his message...he is feelin' Lazarus and it really made me feel good to know that so many people identify with so many different little parts. One of his favorites so far was the scene in the Metro. (Won't say more for now.) Dwayne is really cool peeps -- I like him.

One of my APO bros from Region IV also called me tonight. I need way more time to holla back at him, I haven't seen him since summer 03 maybe?

And I STILL haven't called back my law school frat who was in town this past weekend. Where has all my energy gone?

Oh, I know...it's gone to that damn school house. I worked all five days last week with a second grade class, then no work monday due to parent conferences. Tuesday I came in to volunteer with the second grade teacher to ease her transition, but I got called in to cover a third grade class, so I got put on the schedule. Today, I subbed for a PE class all damn day! THREE, count them, THREE classes back to back, THEN recess duty! Then about 20 minutes for lunch and a pee break, then two more classes back to back! That shit was ba-noodles.

But fun. I did something slightly different with each class. All in all, only one acted like a little snot rag.

Tomorrow, I go in for the second grade teacher in the morning and the PE teacher in the afternoon, then Friday all day for the other second grade teacher.

I really do like this job, no matter how much I complain.

On that note, why do I feel like my biological clock is ticking and not only am I only 25 (26 next month!) but I don't have a biological clock! lol. I see these bright girls and boys and imagine what it would be like if I had kids like them. I can picture it now....three kids, two boys and a girl. One boy, the oldest, is going to be the "smart" one...overachieving and athletic. The type that would probably WANT to go to boarding school. The middle child is the bad boy -- the one that needs all the extra attention. He's BAD and people can't believe that's Rashid Darden's kid! But he's smart and just acts out because he feels like it. Then there is the baby sister whom everyone adores. Her hurh ALWAYS be in nice cornrows cuz her daddy finally will learn how to cornrow some day. She loves to read and her older brothers protect her fiercely.

Yes, that's that active writer's imagination of mine.

Once I get more settled down, I will mentor first. See if I can ACTUALLY help troubled kids.

Back to the book....yo, what's REALLY scary is that people are literally finishing LAZARUS in a DAY. Part of me is like damn, is it THAT easy of a read? But people are saying that it's good, so hey....it's just good then. Wierd. Weird? Why can I never remember how to spell that.

In terms of Entertainment...somehow, I got addicted to America's Next Top Model. It's good! So yeah, it's in it's fourth season and I didn't start watching until last year, but hey, I like it. My favorite is Naima (sp?) and it seems like she is America's favorite as well.

I'm not terribly interested in American Idol right now. Nor anything on MTV. I guess I am just patiently waiting for Big Brother and The Wire to come back.

I was really mad at myself this week when I had a check bounce. :-( I have automatic deduction for my cell phone bill, and I didn't have enough money in there. And Discover kinda wanted some money, too, and well....I just basically dropped the ball and I am mad about it. I ain't rich or famous enough yet to avoid these mishaps. Argh.

I am excited about Pride this year. I'm gonna be at like EVERYTHING. It should be fun.

Okay, now I am too tired to write more. I don't feel like going to sleep, but I certainly do have to work tomorrow. Maybe I'll write more in the morning.

PEACE.

Posted by Rashid on May 11, 2005 at 10:40 PM | Comments (4)

Don't forget....

It's not too late to ask me anything when it comes to Sex and Romance. So far the questions have been all about SEX...ya freaks! You can ask about romance, too.

Bring em on!

Posted by Rashid on at 6:07 PM | Comments (2)

Firsts (stolen from him)

F I R S T S

-First job: Clerk at the National Library of Medicine (Yeah OCCS!)

-First funeral: I believe either my grandfather or my friend Jesse, but I can't remember who died first. Or was it Uncle Edgar?

-First pet: Stripes C. Darden

-First piercing/tattoo: None.

-First credit card: Discover.

-First real kiss: Freshman Year in College. (I was a GOOD boy!)

-First love: Lauren....not only did she not like me back, her man's name was Rashid! (At least, he sure seemed like her man.)

-First enemy: I cannot reveal who my enemies are, for I am still playing them like pawns in a cosmic chess match.

-First favorite Band: Prince and the Revolution!

L A S T S:

-Last relationship: Have I every really truly been in one?

-Last library book: Baird's Manual of American College Fraternities from Lauinger Library (Georgetown)

-Last movie watched: Jesus Christ Superstar

-Last beverage drank: Water

-Last food consumed: Peanut Butter Cup :-(

-Last time showered: 8ish

-Last CD played: CD? Who plays those anymore? Maybe it was the JCS soundtrack.

-Last website visited: myspace.com

N O W:

-Single or Taken: Tragically single

-Crush: Just one real one. My celebrity crushes include Etan Thomas, all of the Wizards, and all of the Bulls.

-Birthday: 06-25-1979

-Sign: Cancer

-Siblings: Two that I've never met and probably never will.

-Hair color: brown/black

-Eye color: brown

-Height: 5'9"

RIGHT NOW WHAT ARE YOU...

-Wearing: Tan new balance, white socks, blue jeans, Kunta Kente t-shirt, an undershirt.

-Thinking about: Him and his previous answers; dinner

-Listening to: the news

-Wanting: FOOD. Then sex. Then more food.

F A V O R I T E S:

-Favorite song: the new Raheem DeVaughn song

-Favorite movie(s): School Daze/The Color Purple

-Favorite show: The Wire

-Favorite word: Lazarus

-Favorite holiday: Halloween

R A N D O M:

-What are you going to do after this: EAT

-Who's someone you wish you could sleep with but cant: Lenny Kravitz. (ONE DAY, LENNY!!!!)

-Do you drink: Very sparingly.

-How many times a week do you drink (if you said yes to the last question): Once every few months

-Do you do drugs: No.

-Do you think you're attractive: Yes.

Posted by Rashid on May 10, 2005 at 5:17 PM | Comments (1)

What's Your Alias?

1. Porn Star Alias - (Name of first pet / Street you live on:
Stripes Oglethorpe

2. Movie Star Alias - (Name of your favorite snack food / Grandfather's first name):
Chex William

3. Designer Alias - (First brand name you see on your left / Favorite restaurant):
New Balance Tiffin

4. Exotic Foreigner Alias - (Favorite Spice / Last Foreign Vacation Spot or Future Spot):
Curry Leicester

5. Socialite Alias - (Silliest Childhood Nickname / Town Where You First Partied):
Rasheedy Peedy Georgetown

6. Fly Alias - (First Initial / First Two or Three Letters of your Last Name):
R. Dar

7. Icon Alias - (Something Sweet Within Sight / Any Liquid in Your Kitchen):
Orange Peel Syrup

8. Detective Alias - (Favorite Baby Animal / Where You Went to High School):
Kitten Coolidge

9. Bar Hopping Alias - (Last Snack Food You Ate / Your Favorite Alcoholic Drink):
Pixy Stix Fuzzy Navel

10. Soap Opera Alias - (Middle Name / Street Where You First Lived):
Eman Tuckerman

Posted by Rashid on May 9, 2005 at 12:25 PM | Comments (1)

Ask me anything....

Ask me anything you want to know as it relates to "Sex and Romance."

I generally don't have comments open for this particular category, but for now, I am feeling a little more open about answering questions.

Go for it! Post your questions in the comments section and I will answer them in a future entry.

Posted by Rashid on May 8, 2005 at 5:53 PM | Comments (3)

When all else fails...

..kneel before Zod!

Posted by Rashid on at 1:14 PM | Comments (0)

Friday, May 6 Round-Up

UVA Alphas that left the Black Fraternal Council in favor of IFC are doing just fine:

Alpha Phi Alpha Director of Membership Intake Jaron Carter is shown at the APA house. APA, the only black fraternity with a house, decided to join the IFC earlier this year.

Alpha Phi Alpha looks to the future
Alpha members say they are pleased with their decision to join IFC

Becca Garrison
Cavalier Daily Associate Editor

After the Iota Beta chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. transferred from the Black Fraternal Council to the Inter-Fraternity Council in February, some members of the University community debated whether the Alphas had made the right decision.
Two months later, the Alphas are active members of the IFC and continue to feel positive about their decision, according to Alpha Secretary Cameron Webb.

"It worked out well, and I think we're definitely still exactly on track with our original vision for joining the IFC," Webb said.

In reference to the debate over their decision, Webb said, "I think that as time has gone on we really had the chance to talk to our peers and the administration, and we've really garnered support from the community."

Webb said he thinks the interaction between the BFC and the Alphas and the other IFC chapters has improved significantly since February. IFC President Ross Kimbel said no conflicts have occurred within the IFC since the Alphas became members.

"Contrary to what people may have thought, the switch from the NPHC has actually strengthened communication and ties between myself and Isaac [Agbeshie-Noye, BFC President]," Kimbel said.

Agbeshie-Noye said there has not been any substantial change in the relationship between the IFC and BFC.

"I can honestly say whatever the Alphas do, we will support them because we are historically bound to them," he said. "We hope that they will support us, too."

African-American Affairs Dean M. Rick Turner said he continues to maintain that the Alphas made a wrong choice in switching organizations.

"I thought it was a mistake then, and I still think it's a mistake," Turner said.

Although he said he is opposed to the Alphas' decision, it has not affected his interaction with the IFC, Turner said.

"I have no animosity towards the men in the Alphas," he said. "I still love those young men like they were my own sons. This is not about being mad at them."

Turner said enhancing the relationship between the Office of African-American Affairs and the IFC is entirely separate from the Alphas' switch. He said he currently is working on a program with Kimbel for IFC members to tutor inner-city students.

"The catalyst to strengthening the relationship between the IFC and the Office of African-American Affairs was the Alphas joining the IFC," Kimbel said.

As for any hard feelings from the BFC, Kimbel said he maintains that there are none.

"Isaac and I meet on a regular basis and there are zero hard feelings between us," Kimbel said. "We are collaborating more closely than every."

Kimbel said the Alphas contribute more community service hours per man than the other members of the IFC, and the Alphas' goals of community service are a great contribution to the organization's success.

Structurally, a large difference between the Alphas and the rest of the IFC is their rush process. Organizing an open house for the Alphas during the IFC rush weeks is a possibility as an effort for the Alphas to become a part of a broader Greek community, Webb said.

The BFC is going through its own structural changes as it heads towards becoming a member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. The change began to take place before the Alphas switched organizations and now is in the final stages of paperwork, Agbeshie-Noye said.

"We did realize altogether that there were some things we wanted to change," he said. "So we made some changes and organized the Council so that we could more efficiently serve the community."

Webb and Kimbel said the Alphas and the IFC are looking forward to the next year.

"We really want to thank everyone for their support both with the African-American communities and the University community at large and the brothers are all very grateful," Webb said. "Everything is definitely looking up. Keep your eyes and ears open for big things coming from the Iota Beta chapter next year."

Black Student Life at 'Bama, Frats Included

Article published May 4, 2005
Segregation Remains at Ferg
Why the University's student center is divided with a racial line.

Chad Hullett, staff reporter

A little more than 40 years ago, former Alabama Gov. George Wallace proclaimed Alabama would remain a segregated state for eternity. While time has proven Wallace wrong, the University is still a segregated place -- at least at lunch.
Every day around noon, the University's Ferguson Student Center becomes segregated. A large percentage of black students who choose to eat in the Ferg tend to congregate near the theater, while their white counterparts mingle outside Starbucks.

One of the main reasons the segregation of the Ferg is accepted and popular is that a large number of black Greeks tend to congregate in that area.

"When I was in school a lot of times the Alphas, Kappas, AKAs and Deltas would all be sitting over there at different tables," said Derrick Pugh, an alumnus of the University. "It was really a cool thing because everyone seemed unified and friendly."

Brandon Murray, a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, said it's become a tradition among a lot of the campus organizations.

"From time to time, black Greeks have mini-step shows called 'step teases' at the Ferg Theater," Murray said. "They are very popular events among the black students on campus and many of the Greeks and students sit over there to grab a bite to eat before they go to the step tease."

APA threw the most recent step tease at the Ferg Theater. Immediately afterwards, some of the members of Omega Psi Phi stood outside the theater and had an impromptu step show. A large group of black students stood outside to watch.

"Back when I was there, we used to get dressed up to go to the Ferg during lunch time," Pugh said.

He said the "black" side of the Ferg was more of a way to meet students of a similar race.

"It was never a negative thing," Pugh said. "I know some people used to plan their schedules around being in the Ferg. We called it 'Black Power Hour.'"

What some would call black students' "self-segregation" essentially began as a sort of self-preservation.

"I think when it started, black people just needed a place to come and be comfortable," Murray said. "Just because a lot of black people sit over there doesn't mean that no one else can."

Murray, a senior TCF major, said the black side of the Ferg has been there since he came to school in 2000.

"It probably won't ever go away," he said. "It's a place to meet, mingle and have fun with people you know."

Anti-Hazing Law Gets Final Approval in Florida

Anti-hazing law gets final approval in Legislature
By Anthony Man
Staff writer

May 3, 2005

TALLAHASSEE · Spurred by the death of a University of Miami student, Florida legislators gave final approval Monday to a measure that would strengthen the law against hazing.
If it receives the governor's OK, the Chad Meredith Act would make high school or college hazing a crime that could bring time behind bars.

Its namesake, Meredith, wound up with a blood alcohol level of 0.13 one night in November 2001 after attending a concert and drinking with members of the fraternity he hoped to join. He drowned while attempting a predawn swim across Lake Osceola on campus.

The legislation (HB 193), sponsored by state Rep. Adam Hasner, R-Delray Beach, and state Sen. Skip Campbell, D-Fort Lauderdale, received nearly unanimous support.

Hasner, 35, was a member of Phi Delta Theta as an undergraduate at the University of Maryland at College Park, a chapter adviser during law school at Florida State, and a national officer.

Hasner said his legislation would make sure "there's a price to pay for participating in hazing activities that result in serious bodily injury."

The only "no" vote in either the House or Senate came from House Minority Leader Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale, who said a new law isn't necessary because serious conduct could be prosecuted under other laws.

Smith, also 35, was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, N.C.

"I volunteered to pledge," he said. "Anything that did happen to me, I was an adult and allowed it to happen." That included suffering a fractured hand, explaining only, "I fell."

The measure provides for up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine for an act of hazing that creates a substantial risk of physical injury or death and five years in prison and a $5,000 fine if the hazing results in serious bodily injury or death.

Tyler, TX AKAs plan Art Alive!

The local Tyler chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., will present Arts Alive! at 6 p.m. Friday, May 13, in the Jan E. Jones Fine Arts Center on the Robert E. Lee High School campus.
Arts Alive! is an area-wide youth arts competition in which youngsters (grades 7-12) will showcase their talents in art, dance, drama and music, organizers said. Tickets are $5, and may be purchased from sorority members and at MOM Record Store. Proceeds will benefit Alpha Kappa Alpha's scholarship fund.

Co-hosts for the event will be Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority member Constance Jones, KETK 56 reporter/anchor; and Darryl Bowdre, minister of South Central Church of Christ, editor-in-chief of Ebony News Journal, and executive director of the Tyler Metro Chamber of Commerce.

Guest performers include the "Debonair Divas" Step Team of John Tyler High School, under the direction of Nancy Taylor.

The Tyler Parks & Recreation Department Intermediate Jazz Dance Group under the direction of dance instructor Pam Erwin, also are scheduled to perform.

Greta Moore-Dixon, a retired New York City teacher and music Coordinator, initiated the AKA Youth Arts Showcase in Tyler in 2003. Her goal is to foster confidence in young artists and to give them the opportunity to be recognized for their creative achievements, organizers said.

Previous first place winners from the 2003 AKA Youth Arts Competition will be inducted into the "Marian Anderson Hall of Fame" during the May 14 Arts Alive! presentation. Marian Anderson, an internationally acclaimed opera singer, was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She was the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera on Jan. 10, 1955.

Other notable sorority members in the arts have included Maya Angelou, BeBe Moore Campbell, Suzanne de Passe, Ella Fitzgerald, Carmen Delavellade, Alicia Keys, Gladys Knight, Ntozake Shange, Jada Pinkett Smith and lyanla Vanzant.

The 2006 Marian Anderson Hall of Fame inductees are DeMonica Banks, Dominqu-etrex Brewer, Mercedes Bush, Blair Caldwell, Tikilya Caldwell, Katherine Davis, Damian Hawkins, Adrian Hilburn, Stephanie Idio, Jameson Minter, Jasmine Session, Ifiori Umana and Ruby Washington.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., encourages its chapters to sponsor innovative arts projects as part of their ongoing service. Other program targets are Economics, Education, Health, and The Black Family.

Linda White is the 2002-2006 national president of the sorority. Darlene M. Lewis is president of Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter.

Members of the Arts and Culture Committee are Berdine Craddock, Winifred Johnson, Constance Jones, Martha McCormick, Tijuana McDonald, Patricia Norman, Sonja Watson, Carolyn Williams, and Greta Moore-Dixon, chairperson.

Posted by Rashid on May 6, 2005 at 9:51 PM | Comments (0)

A Timeline

A time line...

20 years ago I...(1985)
1. Started first grade with Ms. Farrell's class.
2. Realized I had a crush on a boy.
3. Got called "saditty" for the first time.

10 years ago I...(1995)
1. Participated in HOBY (Hugh O'Bryan Youth Leadership Seminars)
2. Joined the band for a hot minute.
3. Met Lauren, the last girl I loved.

5 years ago I...(2000)
1. Became Vice President of Mu Alpha Chapter, Alpha Phi Omega.
2. Got tipsy and stomped across campus because if I could hear my footsteps, maybe I wouldn't stumble?
3. Began my senior year at Georgetown.

3 years ago I...(2002)
1. Quit my job in alumni relations.
2. Started grad school at American University.
3. Met Sam the Zeta.

1 year ago I...(2004)
1. Started my second year as a substitute teacher.
2. Really knew for the first time that I am destined to be a father.
3. Decided to self-publish LAZARUS.

So far this year I...(2005)
1. Raised the money to self-publish LAZARUS
2. Realized I hated fourth graders.
3. Came out with a novel!

Yesterday I...
1. Restrained a second grader from harming himself and others.
2. Stuffed forty envelopes with novels.
3. Got a bill for six more months of PO Box usage.

Today I...
1. Said "Hey Laila!" to my cat.
2. That's about it, I haven't been up that long.

Tomorrow I will...
1. Teach.
2. Buy more packing envelopes.
3. Mail more books.

In the next year I will...
1. Travel to Philly
2. Get rich, bitch!
3. Make some decisions about long-term employment.

Posted by Rashid on May 4, 2005 at 7:27 AM | Comments (3)

A Review!!! (From Rod 2.0 Beta)

The book is neatly divided into four parts: Interest, Rush, Line and Crossing. The books reflect Adrian's stage in the frat process; anyone with just the basics of Greek 101 will understand the significance. For one of the first times, there is a detailed look at hazing and the induction provcess. It's a detailed story about some of the things we have heard about: discipline, hazing, paddling, homophobia and homoeroticism. There is plenty of all this, and this is hot ...

Read the whole review here.

Posted by Rashid on May 3, 2005 at 7:01 AM | Comments (2)

2

Vision of Love, Mariah Carey
Beautiful (Funkymix), Snoop Dogg ft Pharrell
You Made Me Love You, R. Kelly
If I Was Your Girlfriend, Prince
I Need Love, LL Cool J
For the Love of You, Joss Stone
Kiss You Back, Digital Underground
Strangers to Lovers, AAries
Poetry Man, Phoebe Snow
I Can Only Be Me, Keith John
Sugar Honey Ice Tea, Goodfellaz
Goodnight My Love, Billie Holiday
Give Me Your Love (Love Song), Curtis Mayfield
There Must Be an Angel, Eurythmics
God (Love Theme from Purple Rain), Prince

Posted by Rashid on May 2, 2005 at 7:26 PM | Comments (0)

A Toast to LAZARUS: A Recap

I am so tired, you don't even want to know.

A Toast to Lazarus went very well! I've already put the pictures on the gallery.

Special thanks to everyone who actually showed up in spite of the rain! They include my mom, her fiance', my grandma, Kim, Bruce, Betty, Lowella, Erica, Nefertiti, Perquita and her husband (Nick, right?), Tolani, Sheila, Nikki, Shari, Duane, Zachary, Storme, Ezra, Tina, Cylia and her line sister, Al, Lamont, Crystal, Kathy, Carmelita, Erin, Joe, Randy, Bryan, and a few others who rolled through! If I forgot your name, I'm sorry. :-(

It was great having folks there to just kick back and celebrate!

Go me!

Special thanks to Takoma Station Tavern for letting me host the event there!

Posted by Rashid on at 6:53 PM | Comments (0)

1

You Are So Beautiful, Joe Cocker
Creep, Radiohead
Lost, Billie Holliday vs Ani DiFranco vs Paul Simon
Why Don't We Fall In Love (Richcraft Remix), Amerie
I Care 4 U, Aaliyah
Distant Lover, Marvin Gaye & Betty Wright
Love of My Life, Erykah Badu ft Common
I've Fallen in Love With You, Joss Stone
Gimme All Your Lovin' or I Will Kill You, Macy Gray
700 Mile Situation, Res
You Can't Turn Me Away, Sylvia Striplin
It Feels So Good to Love Someone Like You, Terence Trent D'Arby
Not Me, Boyz II Men
You've Really Got a Hold On Me, the Beatles
You Are So Beautiful, Rockapella

Posted by Rashid on May 1, 2005 at 4:24 PM | Comments (0)

« April 2005 | Main | June 2005 »

The COMPLETE DC Black Pride Manifesto

The Ultimate Star Wars Personality Test

Me and No4Real4Real

Which American Cities Best Fit You?

American Cities That Best Fit You:

Pride Teaser

Pride II (Highlights)

Pride I

Erased by Annie Lennox

Frat/Soror Round-Up for May 26

A Quiz from Laila

15 Things You Probably Never Knew or Thought About

Blogging from work

Another Day

Craziness

People I'd Like to Hear From (Update)

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

The Keys to Your Heart

Responses

I really want this paddle!

Without Him, I'm Something

" !"

Finally

1 Place

Mr. Darden: Cool Sub

The Answers II

Two Online Reviews

What would yo do

The Answers

Round-Up for May 14, 2005

Too Slow

What the...(a random entry encompassing all categories)

Don't forget....

Firsts (stolen from him)

What's Your Alias?

Ask me anything....

When all else fails...

Friday, May 6 Round-Up

A Timeline

A Review!!! (From Rod 2.0 Beta)

2

A Toast to LAZARUS: A Recap

1

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