Month: August 2017

It begins to tell…

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum My Beloved Asiatic Black Family!

How are you all? I’m doing pretty well, till after sundown…

Then I woke up on the beach. It was clear which was nice after the past three overcast mornings. Naturally, the first thing I did was reach for my notebook.

I didn’t really feel like writing but I kind of put it on myself to never stop, so I succumbed and it dawned on me that today is A.J. Day.

After the way he treated me, I hardly felt like celebrating.

He tried to give me the beach.

I was like, “Fuck you, Nigga!”

And threw that shit back in his face.

But I am in Malibu.

You know I’ve been reading this old Vogue magazine from 1912 and it said that the only acceptable gifts for a decent man to give a lady he’s courting are FLOWERS, CANDY and BOOKS. Never jewelry or anything “vulgar” like that.

Well, it didn’t say “vulgar” but that’s a term that people use when referring to proper etiquette. Something else you want to avoid is “rudeness.” Another anti-etiquette term.

But anyway, I guess I did kind of accept his gift.

I still feel like he can kiss my perfect round derriere. Choosing a devil over me. I realized last night that I was right about the devil white woman being the root of all evil and I can prove it.

The first devil white woman was Eve. (No, Adam and Eve were not Black. They were the first devils. Black people were here trillions of years before Adam and Eve.) She is where the word “EVIL” came from. Eve —-> EVIL!!!

Also, it can’t be the love of money because there was evil before people even began using money.

But, I remember when I first saw Zawji’s picture after not seeing him for a long while and his eyes looked so dead where they had once been so vibrant.

I know she’s draining him. If he was with me he would forget he ever used to smoke or drink. He wouldn’t need those things. I would soothe his mind and spirit.

That’s what he made me for.

Our Beloved Messenger, The Most Honourable Elijah Muhammad (May the Peace and the Blessings of Allah Forever Be Upon Him) Taught us, “A woman is the only Heaven a man has.”

Thus, if you have a woman but you’re not in Heaven; you need another woman.

He won’t even look at me. He knows if he does, it’s over for her.

I know he loves me now.

Last time we saw each other, he was pissed because I interrupted his lunch date but as soon as he saw me, his face lit up and broke into that beautiful smile that’s reserved just for me. But after we hugged, he started trembling uncontrollably and would not look at me for NOTHING! And all I wanted was to lose myself in his illuminated, beautiful, chestnut brown eyes.

If I had known then what I know now we would be together because I would not have left without him.

Which is why I was so anxious to see him again.

But he wouldn’t look.

I feel so used.

It was as if he summoned me there just to use me.

That’s all anybody ever does.

Get what they can out of me.

And it pisses me off because I can’t turn it off.

I’ve decided to tell people who take my picture to pay me.

I hope I’m not turning into a bitter, homeless old bag lady.

I don’t think so because I still hope one day he’ll come around.

I really don’t have any other thing to do but wait for death.

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I’m so irritable now. The only thing that cheers me up is chocolate or ice cream but I don’t want to get overweight again. It was so hard to lose this time.

I know it’s immature to get angry when people copy me, or photograph me, or get blessings or inspired because of me. And there’s really nothing I can do to stop it. So, I guess, I just crossed another milestone and I’m really going to try and accept the adage that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”

I could use the money though.

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  • I saw the big homie, John from GSH and he told me he owns his own business now!!!! Yaaaay, John!!! So, if you have some pesky critters and want discreet, reliable and effective service give “J’s PEST CONTROL” a call at (310)654-2075
  • Yesterday, I told you that at the Marina, the pelicans “land,” well technically, they “water!” 😀
  • Anybody wanna take me to see Brother Herbie at the Hollywood Bowl? It’s tomorrow and if you are a Brother, we can’t sit together or arrive together. That would be too much like a date and you know Muslims don’t date. So just leave my ticket at Will Call. Muah!
  • Happy B-Day Genius!
  • According to Wikipedia, “In 2010 he lectured at Harvard University, and since then visited, among others, MIT, Oxford, USC, NYU, Cornell where met with scientists such as David Kaiser and Sallie W. Chisholm, to seek inspiration. In 2012 he discussed with Neil deGrasse Tyson.To improve science education in New York City and beyond in late 2012 he began to work with the assistance of Columbia University’s professor Christopher Emdin and website Rap Genius on a pilot program called Science Genius B.A.T.T.L.E.S. (Bringing Attention to Transforming, Teaching and Learning Science). This initiative motivates young high school students, especially African-American and Latino students who together make up 70 percent of New York City’s student body, to learn science through hip hop, creating scientific raps and engaging in a rap competition.“
  • I thought this was so beautiful, despite my aversion to the “Queen,” she gave this precise description of “traditional music:”  “solid songs, intelligent lyrics, superb accompaniment and flawless production.” Brilliant! “…accompaniment…”
  • Another term I like is “Tight Grooves” I got that from Gladys.
  • Oh snap! Thanks Ree-Ree! She talked about this movie in her book.
  • I’ve only watched about the first fifteen minutes and I’m LOVING it so far. But I’m not going to post it until I’ve watched the whole thing. Sorry.

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Milestones

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Dearly Beloved Gods & Goddesses
Of The Holy Tribe of Shabazz

GUESS WHO I RAN INTO YESTERDAY?

https://youtu.be/rTyN-vvFIkE

It was as if he conjured me up to help him with his business meeting. I’m a muse/lady luck and I rolled right up on him in the middle of a meeting on a patio overlooking the ocean.

It was kismet.

Even with all of the “coincidences” that happen in my life, I still almost couldn’t believe it. I was kind of expecting to see him soon though, having just seen his daughter.

I was looking for a park that I had visited several years ago by the beach. I knew I had passed it but I kept rolling.

Then for some reason, I decided to just forget it and go to the beach. So, I turned onto this random little “street” between the houses and there he was.

He was holding court with a crowd of obsequious admirers but it sounded like he was wrapping up.

“A.J.!” I called from the sand below.

A devil peered around him to look but he kept talking.

“A.J.!!!” I called louder.

Still nothing.

I stood there for a minute trying to understand why wouldn’t turn around.

Allah Gently Told me to just, “Forget it,” trying to preserve what little dignity I still possessed and so I started toward the water.

But he was right there! And I hadn’t seen him in so long. I couldn’t believe he would just ignore me!  And I couldn’t just give up on him.

It was worse than the last time I saw him.

It’s like he’s ashamed.

It took him what seemed like ten minutes just to LOOK at me!

This time he wouldn’t even do that.

I was still kinda in shock because I had just walked up and there he was!

I listened to his voice for a minute, trying to grasp that I was right here and he was right there.

Eventually I looked up and one of his obsequious admirers was looking down at me.

I gestured for him to get A.J.’s attention.

He shook his head like, “Uh-uh. If he doesn’t want to turn around, I’m not going to be the one to MAKE HIM!”

Then his devil girlfriend handed him a drink.

A. He was with a group of people and he was the only Black person. I could live with that.

B. He drinks. I could live with that.

But then he did something that I couldn’t handle.

He lit up something.

And I lost it.

I had the hardest time turning Lulu around.

It was as if Allah Didn’t really want me to leave.

But eventually I forced her.

*

I don’t think it’s me anymore. 

For some reason… No, I know why. It’s his devil girlfriend.

Apparently, he doesn’t want to leave her. Yakub’s Law of “Opposites Attract” is causing him to choose her, smoking and drinking over Allah and Islam and me.

So, I continued back on the straight path I was going in before I turned off onto that little street, but by now I was completely in shock.

That little detour changed my life and brought me to another milestone in my life.

When I was in Vegas, I knew he smoked. But it was as if he was trying to quit.

I know the problem is his devil girlfriend.

THE WHITE WOMAN IS THE ROOT OF ALL EVIL.

She gives him liquor, so even if he was trying to stop she won’t let him.

Drinking and smoking go hand in hand.

I know because I used to do both.

But, with the help of Allah, I was able to quit.

So, it’s impossible for me to submit to someone so weak.

I know after she handed him a drink, he automatically wanted to smoke.

And that was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

*

I rode to the end of the beach, where the Marina opens.

I had never ridden that far before.

And I paused when I got to the end of my little path, because suddenly there was a crowd of people walking on the main trail that outlines the Marina where my little path ended.

Why do people always take my picture when I’m at my lowest?

This man snapped my picture and I looked away. Then covered my face and looked at him and he took another one. The camera actually was one that used film so I knew he couldn’t delete it. I just told him, “Don’t take my picture!”

That happened in New Orleans too, when I was actually crying and this guy would not stop taking my picture. I had to get up and leave.

But yesterday, I ended up finding a place that was semi-private (at least it was hard to reach, if not completely concealed) and broke down. Allah Lets me blubber sometimes. I really hate to cry. To me it symbolizes weakness. But I have to let it out. I tried screaming too – later at the beach when it was fairly deserted. But that didn’t do much. I would rather do this: aldkjf la’etueotu ‘ljgkao’erut’owejdg’laewtuq4e u0e[4yu’;er je’rgj’earlkjgrkgjoer;gjw re;oyunpjdfg rpeoiupdfg9 LOL

It’s kind of like banging on a keyboard. I guess it is banging on a keyboard. Just not a musical one. 😀

So, I just rode around and explored the scenery of this new neighborhood. This section of the beach is almost private. The houses open right onto the beach but there’s no bike path between the houses and the beach, nor a parking lot nearby. So, the beach is reserved almost exclusively for the people who live there.

There were people who didn’t live there enjoying the beach too but when I tried to sleep there the police came and told me the beach was closed.

I was like, “Nigga, you didn’t open the motherfucker, so how the fuck are you gonna try to close it? Get the fuck out my face.“

He told me it was like a park.

I was like, “Did you build this, Nigga?“

He was like, if you’re still here when I come back, I’m gonna issue you a citation.

I thought about it. And decided, I could live with a citation. But he would still make me leave and if I refused he could and probably would take me to jail. I was cool with that too.

But then Lulu was like John Coltrane’s solo on “Freddie Freeloader”

https://youtu.be/RPfFhfSuUZ4

Ibnana used to always sing, “What about meeee? What about meeeee? What about me me me me me?”  when his part came on LOL

So, I bounced.

But I found another pier, which was so peaceful and serene and since the police had already cleared the beach, they left. So, I could enjoy it without worrying.

I heard something that sounded like some type of sea monster, but I realized it was just sea lions barking. Then I saw them. They were so cute and playful. They swim differently than dolphins. But I saw them (dolphins) too.

The marina has more wildlife than any other area of the beach that I’ve seen so far.

The pelicans actually LAND (albeit on the water, but still 😉 )! And I think I saw some eagles.

I like to draw the birds.

I guess it’s a good thing the pigs woke me up because by then I was ready to think.

When I first layed down, I prayed for sleep to take me away from my misery.

But sitting on the pier, I had a lot of time to think. I prayed with the prayer beads I had just made, and that really helped me.

Eventually, the sky brightened but by then I was almost ready.

I walked almost the entire distance from the Marina to Venice; it was still very early so I was able to get the last of my tears out without observation.

And I was my usual annoyingly cheerful self by the time I made it to the Club. 😉

*

Last night I decided that that was the last time I was going to let him make a fool out of me. I threw my “wedding band” in the ocean.

I resigned myself to the fact that this world is just fucked up and sometimes your soulmate has issues. He’s still my soulmate and there’s no one who can replace him so I’m just going to have to live my life in solitude unless Allah Decides to clean him up.

My prayer, My sacrifice, My Life and My Death are all for Allah, so I’m Gucci.

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Turns out I DIDN’T miss the Cameron Graves show. It was Friday night. I went and enjoyed it. Although, he’s kinda sketchy with songs titled, “Satanic this and that” and “Lucifer something” so I’m going to be careful with him.

He’s worse than Prince because Prince didn’t come out and say “The devil thus thus and thus” but he still gave me the creeps.

Ro James is another one and I really like him, but something about him feels sinister and that big “Old Hell” in his video doesn’t help.

I’m going to have to force myself to forget that he has a free show coming up….

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Ibnana and I had plans to go learn how to “Lindy Hop” yesterday but they were filming and not paying. Not that it would have made a difference if they were, but I was not trying to help nobody sell a flick.

I was really disappointed about that because that’s my era and I was really looking forward to that class. Ibnana would have been the PERFECT partner, in Zawji’s stead. I can’t dance with anybody else and they both can REALLY dance!!! Cursed filmakers!!!

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  • Why does everybody call Lulu, “The Barbie Bike?” I’m like, CHRISTIE!!!
  • https://youtu.be/sldYmXPIPi8
  • (I had the one at :33 and WHY was her boyfriend named JAMAL?)

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IDLEWILD, MI

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Beloved Brothers and Sisters!!!

I pray Allah you all had a glorious and wonderful evening and morning as I had. I thank Allah!!!

Yesterday, last night, rather, I went to an “opera.” If you wanna call it that. It was a free presentation by the Marina Del Rey Symphony of “Aida,” starring a Black girl, which was a pleasant surprise! The whole opera takes place in Africa, so technically, THE ENTIRE CAST SHOULD BE BLACK. But you know that’s too much like right in Christian America.

The music was beautiful and another key character was Black as well, I think he was supposed to be Pharaoh. But I’ve been to an actual opera and was a little disappointed because they advertised it as “fully staged,” so I go thinking there was going to be a set and everything like a typical play/opera.

Another thing I noticed, and I might just be old-fashioned, but I think subtitles are cheating. In this age of technology and big screens to assist the audience in seeing the drama being carried out on stage, I guess operas have incorporated subtitles to assist audiences in following the storyline.

I guess it makes sense, now that I think about it… Gotta get with the program and keep up with changing times. It does not pay to stay stuck in the past, with some things. You’ll get stuck and buried. LOL That is how the Black Nation lives forever. We grow and change. So, I guess it’s alright to have subtitles. You have the Captain’s approval. Carry on.

But the focus last night was on the conductor and the symphony, instead of the storyline, so instead of the musicians being unseen in a pit somewhere, they were up on the stage and there was no set.

The vocalists just stood in the front of the musicians and sang their lines. :/

It was okay and I’m sure I will return because they have a lot of shows at this particular park. (This was the park where I missed Joe. 😥 ) I can’t think offhand of any shows coming up but they have more musical acts at the nearby Fisherman’s Wharf on the weekends. And, In Sha Allah, I’ll make it to some of those as well.

OH! I just remembered Arturo Sandoval is scheduled to be there later on this month. I might go see him instead of going to see this white jazz band at the Townhouse that plays Old School jazz. He adored Dizzy and Diz gave him his stamp of approval and that means a lot to me.

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This morning, I finally made it over to the Annenberg Community Beach House! On the outside, it looks like such a swanky place. You know the type of place that used to discriminate. And I love going to those types of places. So, I finally went and can cross it off my bucket list.

I was a little disappointed at it as well, because the bulk of the beach house activities are to be done OUTSIDE. And I was expecting more of a sitting room, cafeteria with a dining room type of beach house.

There is a cafe on the grounds but the eating is designed to be done on lawn chairs, picnicking type of thing.

There is also an art gallery and a “game room” for the kiddies, which can be converted into any type of activity room during other seasons of the year.

There was another community type room that was being rented out for a SMC government retreat; a pool; and my favorite – the last relic of the house’s former glory – the Marion Davies Guest House.

The property used to be the jewel of what was then known as Rolls Royce Row on PCH.

Image result for marion davies house

I arrived just as they were opening up and took a tour of the house.

I learned that Marion Davies was the mistress (whom the historical society refer to as “sweetheart.” They love her despite her sordid lifestyle) of media tycoon William Randolph Hearst.

He was a notorious adulterer and had had his share of showgirls, finally settling on Miss Davies. Since he owned so many publications and film studios, he was able to manipulate the press into only printing ravishing reviews for anything she did.

However from what the docent reluctantly told me, the movie “Citizen Kane” tells another story.

Anyway, it is a shame that the house was demolished in 1955. It would have made a beautiful community center, if the remaining guest house is any indication. Let me grab a photo. BRB

Image result for marion davies house 55 best images

Image result for marion davies house

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Image result for marion davies house

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Sorry, if I posted too many photos for you. But I’m “The Architect’s Daughter” and I love architecture as well as interior design and I am fascinated with the details and care that used to be put into buildings.

Blame it on Allah and Islam. That’s where it originated.

Anyway, that small building on the very left of the picture and the pool are the only things that remain of this incredible house.

Image result for marion davies house 55 best images

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  • THE INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART – LOS ANGELES
  • OH MY GOD!!!! THAT’S WHAT I GET FOR NOT CHECKING MY CALENDAR. :/ WHY DID I MISS CAMERON GRAVES FREE SHOW LAST NIGHT?!?!? I AM REALLY KICKING MYSELF RIGHT NOW. I mean, I like Classical. But I LOVE JAZZ. And he is a new artist that I really wanted to see. When I went to Mack Avenue’s website, he came up! And I’ve never heard his music so I was really excited about seeing his show. And I missed it. Okay, I just went to YT to post a video and I know who he is. He played keys when I saw Ryan Porter and the West Coast Get Down. Now, I’m wondering if I should even care about him, because he looks like he’s one of those white guys trying to re-pass. LOL 😀 Well, at least I don’t feel so bad about missing his show.
  • This is the Brother who designed my name logo. He is the first person to design the L.A. symbol differently than the one we all know and love that represent the L.A. Dodgers. THE SMALL SHOP. The shop is located on sixth street in dtla but I cannot figure out the website. I was hoping I could order something I saw in the window online but… I guess. ❤
  • Okay, I figured it out and found what I wanted to buy, but I don’t think I want to spend my WHOLE check on it. :/
  • I also wanted to write a disclaimer about The G autobiography. She was okay with the abomination and you KNOW that’s not cool. So I just skipped those parts in the book and I suggest you do the same.
  • IDLEWILD, MICHIGAN – LUXURY RESORT JUST FOR US

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Aunt Re

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

https://youtu.be/OH3OFq_G5vc

MAHOGANY

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Beloved Brothers & Sisters!

You can see what an influence Aunt Re has had on my fashion sense. I am also a big fan of her music. However, after reading her autobiography, I must say that I don’t really like her personality. If Guinness had a category for biggest ego, Aunt Re would win.

She was so much on the defensive. Always defending her behaviour, misunderstandings, industry disagreements and false media reports. It made me question who was really at fault for her to have SO MANY issues to address.

Especially after reading what she had to say about her relationship with G. I had to mark the page, it was so funny. But I’m not going to go downstairs just to quote her, I will tell you this. She was so “Christian,” but more like Problem #2, all she said was she was going to “pray for” Ms. Knight. LOL So Christian of her.

As a matter of fact, she was so “Christian” that she had three babies by three different men, none of whom did she bother to marry, before she was twenty! I wonder what Christ would have to say about that!

To put it bluntly, Aunt Re was a ho.

Probably still is the way she talked so much about how much she loves the lord and what a good Christian she is. No reason to think she’s changed.

Shows you how terrible Christianity is for Our Nation, also considering that her father was and is one of the most well-known Reverends in the history of Reverends, Reverend C.L. Franklin.

It was opening up for him, that she began her career in music.

And oh my God, why did she tell us everything she had to eat?!?! Every where she went, every family vacation, every shopping spree, every new house, every turn of events in her life was accented with what type of food went with it and how GOOOOOOD it was!!!

But she blamed her weight gain on quitting smoking. :/

Needless to say, I liked her a lot more before I read her book.

But it was interesting to find out, that just as I was realizing my favorite Aunt Re song was Rock Steady,

…she got to that part of her book and mentioned that the organist, whose contribution made the song what it is, was none other than my favorite singer of all time, Mr. Donny Hathaway.

It’s easy to see why she and G don’t get along. Aunt Re blamed it on G’s fledgling career, but G said it started when they met.

She said she and Aunt Re shared a dressing room when Re came to Atlanta, and G, being from Atlanta, was a little intimidated by Re’s star, already having established herself as a great gospel singer. Nevertheless, G extended her hand in warm greeting, welcoming Aunt Re, “Hi, I’m Gladys Knight. Welcome to Atlanta.” Aunt Re just looked at her and then turned her back and resumed her conversation with her background singers, saying nothing.

G said nobody really believed the cold treatment she received from Ree Ree until one day backstage at a concert, she ran into her again. Again Gladys greeted Aunt Re and again Aunt Re snubbed her.

But this time Bubba was with her and Gladys and he exchanged glances. She was like, “I told you.” And Bubba said, “Hey, Ree Ree!” and Aretha turned around and came and gave Bubba a big hug.

Bubba said, “Gladys was speaking to you too.”

Then Ree Ree acted like she had only just noticed Gladys was there. “Oh, hi.”

Both women were raised in the church with heavy gospel backgrounds. But Gladys has a real love for Allah (God) while Re seems to just like going to church and being the Rt. Reverend’s daughter and all that accompanies it.

She said he had his “lady friends” too, one of whom LIVED WITH THEM IN SIN, so the fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree.

SHAMEFUL what Christianity allows. Last time I checked FORNICATION AND ADULTERY ARE STILL SINS.

And such a highly respected man and his daughter. SMH

One of the first things about Aretha that really made me dislike her was the way she treated her musical associates. THREE times throughout her book, she spoke of how badly people she had previously gloated over were treated (Quincy Jones being one) by record company executives, but obviously it didn’t phase her one bit.

She just went on to a different subject.

I felt she could have done a little bit more. She seems really selfish and egotistical. She gives QUEENS a bad name.

And to make matters worse! Her sister Carolyn died of cancer and Ree Ree talked about what a wonderful sister she was and what a terrible time in her life it was. THEN she goes on to say, how her Sister went to the press and talked about Ree and how much Ree didn’t like what she had to say!

Why say that AFTER you talked about her death??? And your SISTER!!! She spoke ill of the dead – something EVERYBODY knows you’re not supposed to do – and her own sister. Like Gladys Knight said, “she can sing it and she can spell it,” but Aretha Franklin doesn’t know the first thing about respect.

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So, the past couple of nights, I did somethings that regular people might think was boring.

On Tuesday, I finally went to the Santa Monica History Museum. It’s free from 5-8 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. But they were having a talk and there were too many people there talking loud and annoying me for me to really enjoy it. So I left but not before I asked about The Inkwell.

They had one picture and one paragraph, mostly emphasizing how polluted the water was.

But I was told that they are going to have a talk in February about it. In sha Allah, I’m going to ask them to do a full exhibit, at least. It will be Black History Month.

Maybe if more people express an interest in it, they will be more apt to expand the exhibit. www.SantaMonicaHistory.org

Last night, I went to hear a classical bassist play some very unusual music which I really dug. It was mathematical. It was music but it was based on numbers and doubling and combining different types of playing and was very cool.

It showed how versatile music can be. The composers name was Tom Johnson and the last number reminded me of a regular song but instead of singing the lyrics, they were spoken.

I discovered I like when bassists slide their finger down the string and wondered if it could be done while walking the bass. Hmmmm???

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  • Oh My God! Why did I have FRESH dates?!?!!!! They were yellow and crunchy and the sweetest thing since Soan Papdi!!! If you EVER have the chance to try them, buy them all!!!
  • https://youtu.be/rs0bsUgB-c0
  • My favorite flavor of honey is “Wildflower.” I don’t care for “Cotton.” :/
  • People my age are at the age wherein we go to bed and the “kids” stay up! LOL
  • Badu didn’t mention Bag Ladies like myself in her classic song. I’m a Sleeping Bag Lady LOL
  • Remember I wrote about the Black drug dealer who just asks, “You f__k with that s__t? Well, I passed a white drug dealer one day, and he said, “I got that. If you need it.” :/
  • My view of regentrification: “If you can’t STOP IT, might as well PROFIT!!!“
  • I don’t know why Mexicans feel like they need to put seasonings on Mango! It’s already delicioso!!! Why make it salty? :/ No comprendo.
  • I forgot to mention how beautiful and clear the night sky has been the past few nights. All I saw were stars, stars and more stars. Did you see it? The moon is also awfully close to the Sun. You can see why there’s going to be a total eclipse on Monday. Astronomy is a natural science. We should encourage our children to participate in viewings. In sha Allah, I’m going to one at the Santa Monica Public Library Pico Branch. Here are some more locations where you can view it in L.A. TOTAL ECLIPSE.
  • One of these men is Cholly Atkins – the man responsible for The Pips signature and impeccable choreography. Eventually, The Tempations, who met Cholly after a tour with G and the Pips, referred him to Motown, where Berry Gordy hired him to refine his own acts.
  • https://youtu.be/M6f6ewUdHcQ
  • FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION – 1st & 3rd Thursdays @ Community Build 4305 Degnan. Call for times (323)290-6560
  • FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION – 2nd & 4th Tuesdays @ Community Build 8730 S. Vermont Ave. Call for times (323)789-9950
  • SISTERS OF WATTS
  • CAMP GID D UP
  • The Marcus Garvey Day Parade & Festival is going on today in Leimert Park. I may or may not go. Probably not. Our Beloved Messenger, The Honourable and Humble Elijah Muhammad (May the Peace and the Blessings of Allah Forever Be Upon Him) Taught us that both Marcus Garvey and Noble Drew Ali, “loved us but they didn’t have the knowledge to have brought us out.” THAT knowledge was only taught to us from Allah, Himself, through his Divine Messenger (PBUH) and can be read in this book. Click the picture to read it in its entirety.

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G

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Dearly Beloved Sisters and Brothers of the Asiatic Nation of The Planet Earth!

Well, I went up to the GZA show and I was almost in. I hesitated because I didn’t weigh the outcomes quick enough. I didn’t have anything to lose. But I think I didn’t act because my intentions were not pure.

I was going to see the GZA when my whole reason for being there was to see Zawji. I know he admires the GZA. And I was hoping to see him there.

But I got caught up in the glitz and the glamour of the entertainment industry and once inside, who knows what I would have been caught up in.

Everything happens for a reason and there is a reason I didn’t get in.

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I finished G’s (Gladys’) autobiography and…

It just made me hate the whiteman even more.

He is the reason why we have so much trouble in our relationships.

Even when we find our soulmates, there are so many unrelated issues that very often, we still end up alone.

Whether it’s drugs, money problems, commitment problems, opposites attract problems or jealousy problems. It is a struggle because of the poison put in us by our slavemaster.

She married her soulmate but he had drug problems. She married again twice but if she knew her first husband was her soulmate, she probably would not have given it another go.

That’s how it is when you know.

You don’t even try anymore. Saving yourself the drama, trouble and heartbreak of trying to substitute another for someone who is irreplaceable.

I learned something from her experience that made me a better Captain and I could really relate to her in many ways…

A. Her love of Allah (God) and

B. Her Good Girl status.

The biggest problem of her life was a gambling addiction, which paled in comparison to some of her musical contemporaries.

She shared stories about other music industry personalities. She talked about how Berry Gordy modeled Motown after their group, hiring their voice coach and choreographer, even hiring a “groomer” for his groups to refine their stage presentation as well as their off-stage behaviours, which G and The Pips were well-known for.

She also talked about how Joe Jackson was friends with her brother, Bubba, William and Edward and that she met his sons, who would later find mega stardom as the Jackson 5, but that when she attempted to get someone from Motown to take a look at the boys, no one would return her calls.

She cleared up the confusion concerning, which came first? Her’s and The Pips’ or Marvin’s version of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine.” She made no bones about her and the Pips, second-class status at Motown, but when their version of the song was at the top of the charts, Gordy had Gaye record another version without even telling them. They found out, not through the grapevine, but when they heard it on the radio.

By far the funniest aspect of her life’s story (which had nothing to do with anyone like the song infers) was her icy relationship with the Queen of Soul, whom she called “Ree” or whom her Brother, Bubba, (whom Ms. Franklin, apparently had a major crush on) called, “Ree Ree.” LOL

I believe her exact words were, “She could sing it and she could spell it, but she had no respect for me.” LOL

I kind of knew Ree Ree was like that. Which is why I read G’s book first. I just like her better, for some reason. I think it’s her wholesome personality, which I must have somehow read from what I’ve seen of her.

TBH, I only bought Ree-Ree’s book out of respect for her gift.

G’s book made me laugh and cry and very introspective. As one who loves Allah, as a singer, as a homemaker, and as one who has come up short so many times in love. I can only comfort myself, like I do when I think about Patrice, and tell myself, “this is not that.”

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  • Salt Lake City, Utah mayor went undercover as a homeless man, spending one night on the streets and one night in a shelter.
  • The Santa Monica History Museum is offering free admission on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-8
  • CAMP SPINOFF
  • BLKMPWR
  • MY VOCABULARY LIST –
  • tempeh
  • sine qua non
  • querulous
  • Valhalla
  • ersatz
  • canard
  • palatable
  • diffident
  • amicable
  • fons et origo
  • polemic
  • Somebody look up the definitions and leave them in the comments section. I have bullets to list! 
  • The name of that book with the album covers for all of the Black Groups since the beginning of time is “FUNK & SOUL COVERS” by Taschen Publishing. After the nearly $300 “The Black Music History Of Los Angeles,” this would be my choice for a coffee table book, if I had a coffee table, or a house to put one in for that matter…
  • As I was enjoying myself, relaxing at the beach this weekend, an airplane flew by, trailed by a banner that read, “Orcas suffer at Sea World. DON’T GO.” That really hit me. My son was twelve before I took him to the zoo, and I cried when I saw the lions. I think because of our history of slavery, I have an exceptionally hard time with anything in captivity. I don’t go to zoos or circuses. I was thinking maybe, the Wild Animal Park in San Diego, but I think I will have to content myself with National Geographic videos until I am able to travel to Africa.
  • I see dolphins all the time in the ocean and I hate to think about them penned up in those microscopic pools (when compared to the ocean) at these aquariums. And I have always loved killer whales (orcas). I’m sure it’s worse for them.
  • Beloved Brothers and Sisters, I must warn you, that soon, my web hosting site is going to start placing ads on my blog. I’m having technical difficulties and have been unable to pay my upgrade fee. So until I take care of that, you’re probably going to see some ads soon. My deepest and sincerest apologies.
  • Speaking of deep and sincere stuff, Miss Manners really put the concept of Marriage into perspective for me. She referred to the institution as “the most formal and solemn commitment” of your life!
  • You know I sleep on the beach, right? But I made sleeping on the beach kind of cool. Something that anyone would want to do, not just homeless people. They sleep close to the street. But to really enjoy it, you have to sleep by the waves, where all the action is! I mean, no one ever wants to leave and go home anyway, so why not make a night of it? 😉 You get to see the sun set and then see your shadow appear on the sand as the sun rises, and that is one of the most memorable experiences EVER!!!
  • I can’t remember where I was the last time it happened, but if you want to make me (Oh yeah, now I remember! 😉 ) leave, just play Ms. Fat You-Know-What… LOL
  • https://youtu.be/aO_yLfBPRh0
  • I know we missed it, but I LOVE this! So G! TECYOSELF!!!
  • If you have children who may or may not be interested in TENNIS, the City of L.A. has a tennis clinic. Missed this one too, but next year…
  • I can cross VISIT THE L.A. INK WELL MEMORIAL off my list since I did that this morning, but here’s one I added YARTS
  • You Know That Feeling You Get When Love Is Fresh & New??? MACK AVENUE
  • You remember when I went to Georgia, and I said I was going to call myself “Peaches” in honour of the occasion??? LOL Well, you know I’ve been spending a LOT of time at the beach, so I’ve got a new alias “Sandy” LOL
  • WATTS TOWERS JAZZ FEST

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Why???

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

This poem is NOT about a personal situation. Although it very well could be. It is my feelings toward interracial relationships, in general. Just because I’m taken and you can’t have me doesn’t mean you have to reject Black women as a whole! As if I’m the last Black girl!

I can guarantee you; Your soulmate is not white. It is laughable to even infer such a ludicrous idea. Your soulmate is BLACK – up from slavery – JUST LIKE YOU.

Yes, you are upsetting me, when you choose a devil over your own Blackwoman, but we are going to see Al Akhira, while YOU are going to be burnt up with your devil gf, if you don’t turn tail. Consider yourself warned.

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Do you know how much it hurts

To see you walk with my enemy

While I walk by myself?

To face the fact that you’ve

Given up on me

Because I have issues

But I don’t even know what they are

Much less how to address them…

All I know is;

It SEEMS like you were Created to be With ME

And I with YOU

That’s just what it SEEMS like…

Can you tell me what I did,

Or what she has that I lack?

I keep telling myself that

Deep down you really still want to be with me

You just don’t have the time

Or the patience

To do

What only YOU can do

To fix me…

To make you love me again.

I see her man eyeing me…

Carefully measuring and calculating my loyalty to you

But, I’d rather be by myself.

He can keep his money.

I Love You That Much.

So Can You Tell Me WHY???

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IBNANA

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

https://youtu.be/aB31hxtwHvM

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Beloved Brothers & Sisters

I pray Allah you all had a blessed and magnificent weekend. I am happy to report that I did too, I thank Allah!

By far the highlight of my weekend was when I saw Ibnana! I was in the neighborhood because I had planned to go to LACMA but the bus took forever, so I ended up going to Target and riding around Black Beverly Hills. And since I was so close, Allah Told Me To Go See IBNANA.

I hadn’t seen him since the week before Mother’s Day and we just started talking again, so I just went over there. He lives with my father and I REALLY didn’t want to see him, so I was faced with the task of figuring out how to get him outside.

Luckily, his friend was outside his house and he went and got him.

When I tell you my son is dope, believe me.

He bought a 24 karat gold-plated chain and he was blinging.

He wears jewelry like I wear jewelry.

It can be Walmart, gold-plated glass but on us looks like $15,000.00 Tiffany’s.

He is so funny and can dance and super-SMART, just like Zawji.

Not to mention he looks so much like him it’s scary.

But we had a REALLY good visit. He was SOOOO happy to see me! I felt good.

So when I left, I went riding around Leimert and came up on a performance at The Stage; saw some old friends and ate a good healthy meal, courtesy of Kah’s Grill…

And heard some live JAZZ!!!

Saturday, I laid on the beach all day.

Sunday, I laid on the beach and then went to the Drum Circle. I love supporting Black Businesses with the money I get from the Government.

You know I love reading autobiographies by musicians and I picked up TWO. All of the previous autobiographies have been jazz musicians but when I saw a book titled, “Between Each Line Of Pain and Glory,” it just piqued my interest. I knew it was a song, but when I found out it was Glady’s Knight’s autobiography, I had to have it. She is so funny! She reminds me of Miss Manners’ sense of humour. I am really enjoying her book.

I also had to buy ‘Retha’s just on G.P.

I bought some much needed earrings, some supersweet Lemonade courtesy of the Honey Queen and talked to the most inspirational young Black Father with his own clothing line: JUST BE DOPE.

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NOW, THE BULLETS…

  • PAN-AFRICAN GLOBAL TRADE AND INVESTMENT CONFERENCE
  • HAMMER KID’S SUMMER PROGRAM
  • ARRAY
  • So, I read in the Standard that there is an effort being made to rename Rodeo Road to Obama Blvd. :/
  • I found out that L.A. used to have our own “Ink Well”
  • https://youtu.be/kYBITnM2pDM
  • The “Ink Well” in L.A. was located between Bay & Bicknell Streets, long after 1927 when beach segregation ended. There is a monument which is on my “Bucket List” to visit, memorializing The Ink Well, located at Bay Street and Ocean Front Walk.
  • MALIBU CONCERT ON THE BLUFFS
  • I keep seeing Fritz. I was talking to him at The Central Avenue Jazz Fest when they called him to go onstage. I thought that was Uber Cool. Groupies talk to musicians AFTER the show. We were talking BEFORE. Only fellow musicians do that. 😉
  • https://youtu.be/muMsIEyRu8U
  • AND THE SISTER CAPTAIN LOVES LINCOLNS!!!
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HIP-HOP!!!

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

Image result for dj kool herc invitation

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Beloved & Beautiful Asiatic Kings & Queens in the Wilderness of North America

Okay, so you know I don’t believe in coincidences, right?

Well, I have been looking for a crate to put on Lulu’s cargo rack for quite some time now and why did I find one this morning?

And then, I sit down to write, go to Google, and they’re celebrating Hip-Hop’s Birthday!!!!

I forgot all about it! But

Anyway, I don’t really have a lot of time to write anyway today, so I’m just gonna let you go to Google, Click on the Graff and Have some Hip-Hop Don’t Stop FUN!!!

~ As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum!!!

GOOGLE

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I am sooooooooo disappointed!!! I call myself being secretive about this show I want to go to and just looked online for tickets and it’s SOLD OUT!!!! 😥 😥 😥

I’ve been wanting to see JIDENNA since last year when I arrived in New Orleans the DAY AFTER his show at the Essence Music Festival. He is Zawji’s Doppel and I just love him.

See what I’m saying? We got divorced though. And it’s only because of my own experience that I still have hope that one day Zawji will forgive me and give me a second chance.

I really don’t even like to think about the fact that I may have been cause for Zawji going through such misery and torment. I don’t even think I can fathom what he went through. He said he was suicidal at one point and I am praying to Allah that it was not because of me. But then something like this pops up… *sigh* …Doppelgängers. I’m still paying for the biggest mistake of my life, but TRUE Love Never Dies…❤ ❤ ❤

I’m so glad Jidenna lost the blonde hair though. That was not fresh. I’m hoping it was supposed to be symbolic of his crown…

There are certain Brothers who I really want to see live. JOE is high up on the list and I just found out I missed his FREE show in the Marina in June.

He is one of those artists who just gets better with time. I think about J.Cole’s song “False Prophets” and he says something like “I listen to my old music and I KNOW I can top it.”

That’s how I feel about Joe. I was a fan when I first heard, “I’m in Luv” but that was the only album I bought.

I stayed a fan, enjoying his music on the radio and videos, but now that we have online radio, I was able to listen to his entire catalogue and hear songs that were not played on the radio over the last twenty years and OH MY GOD!

The quality of his music just improved. He is one of those truly gifted artists who didn’t let Hollywood affect him or his gift. There are only a few artists who can say that. They stay true to themselves.

Joe is also one of those truly talented singers who sounds BETTER LIVE.

That is how you can tell a true musician and not a studio musician who has been tweaked by the equipment into sounding good. :/

Here are a few of the gems that I discovered:

Not to mention his SHOWMANSHIP! I mean, he wears TUXEDOS when he performs live.

Who does that nowadays? Only Joe.

I am so grateful I was able to see Raheem Devaughn in New Orleans in 2015.

I would like to see Calvin Richardson, Maxwell, Musiq Soulchild, Brian McKnight, Will Downing, Avant, Donnel Jones, Jaheim, Bruno Mars, Dwele, Lyfe Jennings, Jesse Powell, Quincy Jones’ Big Band, Mint Condition, O’Bryan, Omarion, Frank McComb, Tony Thompson, OKAY, OKAY, OKAY, DANGIT!!!!! TYRESE, Happy? Might as well throw Usher in there while I’m at it…

I’ve seen Cody Chestnutt, but that was ages ago, he has new material that I would love to see him perform.

I’ve also seen Uncle Charlie, but he was with the GAP Band and they put on one of the BEST shows I’ve ever seen in my life. Uncle C is definitely a seasoned veteran when it comes to performances. Talk about AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION!!! “Heave! Ho!!!” LOL I will never forget that. It was such a good time. Long Live The FunkFest!

I also have to give the GAP Band major kudos because they chose their name based on streets in the now famous section of Tulsa known as “Black Wall Street” Let me G it BRB Greenwood, Archer and Pine…

I have to admit, I used Wikipedia’s list of R&B singers to help me remember. I was really trying to think of Donnel Jones, but since the list was there…

I’ve always had an active imagination, imagining what inanimate objects might think or say (thus Lulu’s “personality” and nudgings) and I feel like Mario would feel left out if I didn’t include him in my list. So, I’m gonna add him just on the strength of his song content. I can really relate to his lyrics…. So cheah.

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I bought a sleeping bag yesterday and it made sleeping on the beach so much more pleasurable than the two jail blankets I’ve been using. Allahu Akbar!

In Sha Allah, tonight I’m going to see L.A. Drummer, Don Littleton at Jazz @ LACMA.

I hope you go out and do something fun and exciting with the rest of your day. May Allah Bless You and REMEMBER YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE!!! If you don’t do it this lifetime, you never will. DO IT TO IT!

Can’t forget the bullets… 😉

  • The root word of INTOXICATED is TOXIC! Keep that in mind next time you think about taking a drink.
  • Check out my girl, who I met on the train. She was so sweet and lovely. I love that L.A. has a train now. I never imagined. It’s so cool. You meet so many interesting people. You can take it to the BEACH! And it just makes getting around so convenient. I love that I’m FROM L.A. Hardly anybody I meet nowadays is from L.A. but I can always tell when I meet a fellow Angeleno. It’s true what Pac said, we all gotta little thug in us.

Image result for Ashley Romans

ASHLEY ROMANS

Instagram: @romansash
Twitter: @romans_ash
Image result for Ashley Romans
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* I’m pretty sure this is a Black-Owned Business because I discovered them in the Standard, but you know how we are, gotta be all extra… Anyways, if you are looking to start a business, they have a 40 YEAR reputable reputation and can offer loans as well as valuable information, guidance and support. Visit Pacific Coast Regional Corporation and DO SOMETHING FOR SELF!
* I also heard about this in The Standard and was so enchanted and excited about the idea that I considered calling up the owner for my own interview. And, to offer suggestions, which I might still do but in the meantime, check out THE BLACK BUSINESS TOUR… The next tour is August 26th, so act fast!
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 I had the most amazing conversation with our son, Ibnana, yesterday.
I called myself being angry with him and we hadn’t spoken in about a month.
It is sometimes difficult for me to accept that he is a Blackman and has more powerful brains than I have.
Also, he is younger and one of the things Our Beloved Messenger, The Honourable and Humble Elijah Muhammad (May the Peace and the Blessings of Allah Forever Be Upon Him) Taught us, is that the reason The Holy Nation of Islam can live forever is because we are constantly growing and changing.
If we were to stop growing, we would begin to decay and eventually die.
Let me give you an example. Our Beloved Messenger (Peace Be Upon Him) Taught us that The Blackman is God and the whiteman is the devil.
Well, during the course of my growth as a Muslim, I have had several conversations with disbelievers. And, since our Beloved Messenger (Peace Be Upon Him) Taught us that “Islam is as True as Mathematics and Mathematics is as True as Islam,” I tried to put it mathematically.
The opposite of Black is white; the opposite of God is the devil.
So since the Blackman is God then by the Law of Opposites, the whiteman would have to be the devil, right? Never mind that he has done nothing but made mischief and caused bloodshed the entire time he’s been on our planet.
Well, recently, and after careful observation of her ways, if you want to really get technical;
The opposite of the Black is white; the opposite of man is woman; the opposite of God is devil.
So, truthfully speaking, if the Blackman is God, the Law of Opposites would make the whiteWOMAN the devil.
I’m just sayin… Growth…
So, in short, our son is about to change the game, literally and figuratively… 😉
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Violated!

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Beloved Asiatic Black Kings And Queens!

I don’t really have much to say except I was robbed last night. *gasp!*

I went through some donations to Goodwill last night and picked up a black pleather backpack and some other things I needed and went to sleep on the beach.

Fortunately, I had put on the items I really needed, so when I woke up and the backpack was gone, I felt more violated than taken advantage of.

I think Allah, no, I KNOW Allah Wants me to travel lightly and the added weight was really unnecessary. I knew that when I took it but I’m a hip-hop head and we like backpacks, for some reason, so I liked wearing it, even if after awhile the burden made itself manifest.

I wanted it; but I certainly didn’t need any of it. It’s just that I was just thinking about a change of clothes and then I see all of these donations. I really needed some shoes but there were about ten pairs of sneakers – all too small.

If that was a test, I failed. But Allah Will Have His Way.

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Did you see the Moon? It was aight. I mean, it was kinda full with the top right corner shaved off a little bit. Not nearly as amazing as the previous two nights, but still beautiful just the same.

Like I said, I slept on the beach, then I went to this Homeless Resource Center I had heard about. (I like to have options. I also never want to get stuck at any one place. Anything could happen and then where would I go?) They weren’t there but I found a couple giving free donuts and coffee to whoever needed it, so I helped myself.

The lady was even kind enough to Google the HRC I had been looking for and found their new address. However, when I got there it was like “under new management” and had none of the services I was in need of. Well, maybe one, but the people who offered the adult services were at another location while they had Summer Youth Camp.

So, I got the address and pushed to the Promenade.

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My GR finally came in (I always get benefits on the LAST day :/ but I’m grateful. Allahu Akbar) and I had planned to buy some Skechers :/ since my dividends are so low now.

I had met this Brother on the Row back in April and when I was in the market for some new sneaks, he recommended that brand.

Back then, I was almost offended. Skechers??? Don’t make me laugh.

I had planned to buy some Shelltoes but went with some Pumas instead.

So, now since my check has been cut by about 90 per cent, it seemed as if my only option was the Sketches.

They have a store on the Promenade and last week I reluctantly went in to see what they were working with.

I was repulsed by the inferior quality of the shoes but they were all only $50-$55, which was within my budget and I thought, Hey, at one time, Skechers were pretty hot. They are a recognizable brand and, well that’s about it.

But this morning on my way to the Promenade after the disappointment of the now defunct HRC, Zawji reminded of our own local favorite – CHUCK’S!!!

ALLAHU AKBAR!!!

I could get some decent shoes, well CHUCK’S are beyond decent, they are well-respected and even the shoe of choice for many (myself included) when budget is not a factor. Allahu Akbar!

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Now, the bullets…

  • Go support the homie, Max, KPFK DJ and Event DJ at the Townhouse in Venice, CA Tuesday, August 15, from 9p-2a Right near the Boardwalk – Ocean Front Walk. It’s going to be nice to see him after all this time. Our sons used to participate in the Drum Workshop at the Stage BITD…
  • So, I passed on the political music of L.A. talk at CAAM, but there are two related events that incorporate DANCE to this music. They’re both going to be held on the next two Sundays at 1-2:30. The first is 90’s dance and the following week will be the Lindy Hop. My Grammy told me she used to be really good at this. We’ll see how her grandbaby fares…
  • Also, coming up in September at CAAM, there is going to be a screening and discussion on the history of Silent Race Films, of which I have a particular interest, so if the facilitator is not a devil, you will, In Sha Allah, find your Sister there. Wednesday, September 6 from 7-9
  • There is an artsy venue in Santa Monica that I’ve been dying to visit, but every time I go by there, they are always closed. So I Googled it and found the schedule and In Sha Allah, I will visit the Open Craft Lounge that is open to artists to work on any project alongside other artists in an “Open Craft Lounge” It’s the second Saturday of every month at Camera Obscura from 11-2.
  • Another venue that just looks so high class and beautiful that I thought I had to have an excuse (like some type of event) to visit is the Annenberg Beach House. They do have a lot of events scheduled, so if you have to have an excuse, check out the website, but I’m just going to drop by after I wake up on the beach…
  • Another Literary Arts Center I happened upon this weekend during a ride through the beautiful city of Venice (whenever I hit up Venice it makes me feel that way)

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Back Down Memory Lane…

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

As-Salaamu ‘Alaikum Ma Beloved & Beautiful Asiatic Black Kings & Queens

Al Hamdulillah! I pray Allah you had a chance to view the continuation of that Full Moon. I forgot usually it’s full for a couple of days. I didn’t see it when it rose, so it didn’t seem as beautiful as the night before but it was still AMAZING!!! ALLAHU AKBAR!!!

You know I’m homeless, so “going out” is not a big production for me like it probably is for you, where you have to “get ready.” :/ You feel me? I’m already “out.” So much of my time is just spent, finding things to do while I’m out.

So yesterday, I had planned to go to this event at The California African-American Museum (CAAM) – one of my most favorite places to go. It was an event focusing on the political music of Los Angeles. I wasn’t all that thrilled about it, but at least it would give me something to write about. Plus, I’ve always been pretty political; I love music; and I’m from Los Angeles. Triple Threat.

Not to mention the fact that I had seen the facilitator’s name TWICE in different publications for two totally different things. So, I took that as a sign.

But when I arrived, I saw that the facilitator was a devil.

That is the only thing I don’t like about the museum. It’s too inclusive. I had to write them an e-mail once because I noticed that NONE of the employees were African-American!

They may have been Black but they were from other countries. Not up-from-slavery like we are.

That was so disappointing to me, because at the time of my visit, none of the visitors were Black (up from slavery in the United States) either!

So, who could I fellowship with or voice my sentiments with about these exhibits portraying or commemorating events in our unique history???? Thus the letter.

So, I was in L.A., and I still love it here, despite it’s unattractiveness when compared to Santa Monica. So, I decided to just hang out until it was time to go to this Jazz show back home. 😉

I had planned to go visit my old residence, the last place where I paid rent, whenever I was in the area, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity.

I was a little hesitant because all of my old friends are male and you know how it is…

So, I ostensibly, based my visit on the desire to see how this beautiful and wonderful kitten, that used to keep me company, had grown up.

He was sitting on the porch when I arrived and he is just amazingly gorgeous.

However, when I put Lulu up on the porch he ran away so I didn’t get to hold him. 😥

I probably could have gotten my “Nature Boy” neighbor to fetch him for me, but I didn’t want to hang around too long. …Males, you know…

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So, since no visit to L.A. is complete without a ride through Leimert Park, I made one more pit-stop. And, I am oh-so-glad I did!

There is a LOT going on. I picked up this newspaper called Los Angeles Standard and from what I imagine, (I haven’t read through the whole thing yet) it’s published by two Brothers (with the same parents 😛 ). It covers Crenshaw, Leimert Park, View Park, Windsor Hills, Ladera Heights, Park Mesa Heights, Jefferson Park, West Adams and Mid City. AKA My Old Stomping Grounds. And, I found out so many things so far. I’m going to have to continue this next time I blog after I’ve finished reading the newspaper. But In Sha Allah, I’ll bullet them at the end.

I just visited the website and it is just as good or even better than the newspaper because this newspaper I picked up is from July and the website seems to have more stories.

And OH MY GOD! Why did I stop in at the Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center and was completely blown away by the caliber of music coming from those youngsters?!?!? They offer FREE performing arts classes for Black youth. I didn’t identify the song they were playing, it was something by Herbie Hancock and I knew it, I just didn’t take the time to name it, and now I can’t remember it. But they were so good! Better than the adults at the World Stage, which I also visited.

There is a lot going on there as well. Now keep in mind that it’s been about two years since I’ve really visited Leimert, and a lot has changed. I already told you how the Drum Circle has shrunk and although I didn’t see any, the devils are there now.

Well, the World Stage appears to be thriving. Many of the musicians who never made it to “stardom” are conducting workshops where they coach “aspiring musicians” for a small “donation.”

Last night, I spoke to a familiar face (Hey Baba Raka! 😀 ) about what was going on inside and found out that there is now a vocal workshop for singers. So, you know I love to sing Jazz, so I went inside, where I saw another familiar face (Hey Renee! 😀 ) and the workshop was in full swing.

There was an Asian lady on stage (which I really thought was not fresh, but the facilitators want money) singing (badly) “The Shadow Of Your Smile” which I always associate with Carmen McCrae, and although she supported the Nation, I just never really dug her.

So I got all of the fliers and In Sha Allah, I’ll list everything when I’m finished.

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Then I boarded the train back to Samo. I spent my last cash on some of those mini chocolate donuts, you know that come six in a pack, and went to the Jazz spot.

I knew they were going to be devils but I was hard up for some jazz. And I didn’t have anything else to do…

So, I see a Brother sitting with a devil on the flowerbed outside and I thought it might be doable.

But I found a place to park Lulu right in front and decided to eat my donuts outside before going in.

A devil with some guitars (acoustic) walks by.

Then I decided to wait until I heard the music before deciding if I wanted to go in or not.

But I finished the donuts and then walked closer to the building and, through the window, it looked like the band was already playing. So I listened through the door for a minute and it sounded pretty good.

So I went in.

It was a recording.

Everybody was white, trying to be hip.

So when I walk in, you know when Black people show up at an event it automatically legitimizes it, everybody started putting on their “look-how-jazzy-I-am” attitude.

I sat down in the first seat I saw – at a table with a devil man eating. But we were at opposite ends of the table so…

Then I check out the musicians. First I notice a Brother, but he was the sound man.

Then in the center front, there is a devil with a flute and an alto on the floor in front of him.

I saw a vibraphone on the floor in front of the stage but it wasn’t being manned by anyone.

Then I noticed the Congas and thought they might actually be pretty good.

So, I conspicuously left my notebook with the KJAZZ sticker on the front on the table (to save my seat, you know?) and went in search of the Ladies Room.

https://youtu.be/zEX4rKa-oS0

I get in there and it’s cool but I’m kinda like animals when it comes to where I leave my scent. And I wasn’t exactly sure I wanted to leave it there. So, I just took a minute to enjoy the solitude and privacy, which is so hard to come by when you’re homeless, and the band starts up.

They weren’t terrible but they weren’t good either. Somewhere in between.

But then the leader (I assume) starts singing and I decided to take my leave.

So, I went back out front, grabbed my notebook and bounced.

Then I hear one of the see-how-jazzy-I-am devils, “Excuse me, Miss?”

I turn around.

“I’m not sure, but I think this fell out of your notebook when you walked out…”

It had.

Trying to be gracious… “Yes, thank you! It’s mine.”

I HATE when that happens. That’s the third time I’ve been having a good time, content, and somebody comes and just throws salt in my game, for lack of a better expression. The energy! It drains from me and goes to them. But, trying to be Halim…

So, I decided to go back to this spot I rather enjoyed on Saturday night but I kinda knew, Tuesday night is a lot different than Saturday night, and just pushed to an old spot.

I REALLY wanted to sleep on the beach again, but I was tired or lazy or both, and excused myself by noticing that it was about ten degrees colder than it had been the night before and I didn’t want to freeze on the beach.

But it’s beautiful everywhere in Santa Monica and when I opened my eyes, I was greeted with Palm Trees, seagulls and flowing water, which is so lovely that there’s a name for it in Arabic – Hadira.

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  • Where has this website been all my life??? Black Cultural Events
  • One they don’t have… MARCUS GARVEY DAY – August 19, 2017 Sunrise Ceremony 5am, Free Black Family Breakfast 7-9am, Parade (Adams & Crenshaw to Leimert Park) 10am, Festival 12pm, Candlelight Memorial 7pm For more information MarcusGarveyLosAngeles@gmail.com (213)683-5711
  • For some healthy food, join the movement! I am definitely going here when I get my GR check, In sha Allah.  iamaflowerchild Review forthcoming, In sha Allah

This has been on my mind for a minute that I just had to write about it, and I saw an article in the L.A. Standard about the NAMI (something about mental illness) office in Leimert, so I’m taking that as a sign.

Psychiatric Medications are not for the people taking the medication.

The medication is for the people whom the people who NEED the medication have to be around. Huh?

People who need psych meds would be just fine if we didn’t have to interact with others.

I could go live up on a mountain and live off of juices and berries, dressed in animal skins and be completely content for the rest of my life. And I’m sure some people do do that sort of thing.

Unfortunately (for me, kinda), I’m a Muslim and have all this knowledge that Somebody Very Important would hold me accountable for not sharing if I did that… So you know how it goes.

Fortunately, I’m NOT in a position where I have to be responsible for anyone else, so if I DO have a psychotic break, it’s not going to directly affect anyone but myself. Thus, no medication for your Sister Captain! Yaaaaaayyyy!!!!!!

Unfortunately, (to a certain degree) I ran into Zawji’s daughter and I really felt a sense of responsibility, for some reason, and thought about taking medication again. Never mind that she’s grown now and certainly doesn’t need me looking after her…

But, I digress, whenever you run into that crazy man putting on a show for the entire train, you think, If anybody needs medication, it’s him.

But who does he need medication for? Obviously, he’s happy! You are the one who thinks he needs to act more like you and everybody else on the train.

And who knows? One day, he may feel that way too. But, in the meantime… Don’t ask him if he’s taken his medication… :/

Okay, back to the bullets…

  • Speaking of crazy people… If you want to take a picture or video of somebody but don’t want them to know, hold your phone at arms length (while you’re recording) and act like you’re taking a selfie (you know, fix your hair, check your teeth, &c.)… Granted it only works for a while, but I think Snapchat is only like 2 seconds anyway… :/ I wouldn’t know, I’m too old for Snap…
  • If I was gonna join another organization it would probably be this one Santa Monica Bay Women’s Club but dues, you know…
  • So, I finally found out where I can get Lulu some lights for her tires in L.A. They have something called the Electric Light Parade in Venice that is supposed to encourage safety during night rides, but apparently the mysterious Brother I’ve only so far heard about, appears at these weekly rides and you can purchase them from him. They meet every Sunday at 6:30 at Windward Plaza.
  • You know I love classical music, right? Well, guess what I just found out about??? Sundays Live @ LACMA
  • EDITORIAL – Facebook is cool and all, but if you have a business or organization, don’t substitute a FB page for a REAL WEBPAGE… :/