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Jay-Z's Live Concert in Phoenix Was Simply A-May-Z-ing!

Hova! Hova! Hova! Hova!

Jay-Z is and has been the best rapper in the game (alive) for a LOOOOONG time!!

I have to admit that when the good folks at Live Nation told me almost two months ago that Jay-Z was doing a concert at the Dodge Theatre on July 2, I knew it was big news for fans in Arizona, but I personally wasn't interested in attending the concert.

In the past, I heard that Jay-Z's shows were just OK, nothing special.

But now I know I was seriously misinformed ... there's nothing like experiencing Jay-Z live and in person!!

I finally became interested in seeing the Jay-Z concert on June 28 after watching him blow up the stage during the BET Awards with his new, "Death of Autotune" joint! "D.O.A." showed me that Hov is like a fine wine, he just keeps getting better with time!

On July 2, Dodge Theatre was completely packed! The atmosphere outside and inside the building was electric! It's been awhile since I've witnessed that kind of excitement at a hip-hop concert! You could tell that people knew they were in the presence of greatness!

I was talking to some friends in the lobby when Jay-Z opened the show with the aforementioned hit. I felt like O.J. Simpson in his old Hertz commercial as I ran and leaped over anything in my way to get to my seat!

Hov rattled off hit after hit!

"Can I Get a ..."

"Jigga"

"Big Pimpin'"

"Money Aint a Thang"

"Dirt off Your Shoulder"

"99 Problems"

"Can I Live"

"Roc Boys"

"Excuse Me Miss"

"I Just Wanna Love U"

Jay-Z has piled up so many hits over the course of his storied career that he couldn't do them all in one night! He teased us with a lot of medleys just to fit in snippets of the songs that we've heard and loved over the years!

There were a few songs that he didn't perform that I REALLY wanted to hear (or I don't remember hearing) ...

"Lost One"

"Can't Knock the Hustle" 

"Can't Be Life"

One of the most entertaining parts of the night was when Jay-Z and Memphis Bleek (he played the hype-man role) performed, "You, Me, Him and Her" off the The Dynasty: Roc La Familia 2000 album. Jay-Z made it clear that there's still bad blood between him and his former female protege, Amil! Wow - after all these years he's still hatin' on her!

Jigga Man huh?
Sigel Sigel y'all
Memph Bleek what?
Amil-lion GONE!!

I thought the roof was gonna blow off the Dodge Theatre when Jay-Z hit us with "Hard Knock Life!"

Finally, Hov closed the show with "Encore" from the Black Album. In a classy move, he acknowledged the entire crowd and thanked them for their support of his illustrious, legendary career.

People were goin' crazy! Dancin' in the aisles, repeating the lyrics, huggin' each other! The scene was bananas!

I will never pass up the opportunity to see Jay-Z when he returns to Phoenix ... like I said, Jay-Z is and has been the best rapper in the game (alive) for a LOOOOONG time!! 

I hope he does an "Encore!"

From the Shiny Suit of the Past to the Silky Swagger of Now, Maxwell Delivers in Phoenix, Arizona

Editor's Note: Maxwell put on an amazing show at Phoenix's Dodge Theatre on Monday night! Ada Dieke, a PhxSoul.com family member and big-time Maxwell fan, took time out of her busy schedule to share her thoughts about the concert. Please take time to read "This Woman's Work ..."

By Ada Dieke aka The Art Appreciationist

Forcing females to swoon with a smooth falsetto should be a crime. Compelling a certain woman to drive downtown Phoenix stopping for green lights and accelerating on red, should be a capital offense. Motivating ladies to want to remove their control, tops the list of potential misdemeanors caused by ONE look from HIM. Last night, accompanied by opening act Laura Izibor, Maxwell arrested the Dodge theater audience.

Izibor, the talented Nigerian-Irish beauty with a surprisingly rich, throaty voice, sang several songs off her debut album, Let the Truth Be Told, accompanied only by her keyboard and guitarist, Solomon. She was confident, soulful, and relaxed as she warmly joked with the audience during the set, getting folks ready, as she said, for Maxwell.

Then he appeared (Insert screams of "Oh My God," "I love you Maxwell," "Maxwell, stop playing, you so crazy," and repeat five times quickly without a lot of breathing in between) ...

Simplicity can effectively stimulate all five senses. No special effects needed to be seen. Mr. Headliner himself served as lead eye-candy in charge, stalking about in champagne-colored shoes and a dapper dark suit (with tremendous agility), gainfully grooving to the graceful guitars. Even the band's talent tasted delicious, from the chocolate drop bass guitarist (Derrick) and keyboard player (Robert), to the cinnamon crisp drummers, to the honeyed vocals of Latina, and to the sticky-icky vanilla guitar strums by Hod.

Maxwell's energetic showmanship was so palpable you could feel the connection of his singing with the audience, opening the show with "Get to Know Ya," then other favorites, including the song "This Woman's Work," dedicated to the late Michael Jackson, to the dangerously seductive "Bad Habits," a new song off of his BLACKsummersnight album (due out July 7).

Maxwell's cologne even smelled sexy from the seats.

At one point, Maxwell jokingly admonished security to stop "panty-blocking" after female fans tried to throw their unmentionables on the stage.

To cap off the evening, Maxwell delivered, "Ascension (Don't Ever Wonder)," a song that was so good live it was possible to hear colors.

Maxwell is the real deal, a modern day soul legend, able to imprison hearts and put his competition behind bars.

About Ada: Ada is a doctoral student in public health at the University of Arizona (BEAR DOWN Fellow Wildcat). While her studies are important, she relishes the opportunities she has to dance, perform, and create. She is an art enthusiast showing appreciation for various artistic formats. As a hobby, she reviews music and concerts with a less negative slant and hopes to one day own her own production company, helping churn out projects that show minorities in a positive light.

Sharpe Wins 2009 Arizona Media Diversity Award

Editor's Note: PhxSoul.com congratulates Ed Sharpe for receiving this honor. He has been a great friend and supporter of this Website and the Valley's black community. His coverage of the 2008 Arizona Black Expo was top-notch! 

The Arizona Association of Black Journalists is pleased to announce Ed Sharpe of the Glendale Daily Planet as winner of the third-annual Arizona Media Diversity Awards Contest.

AABJ honors Sharpe for a collection of stories including a visit to Glendale by acclaimed poet Nikki Giovanni, coverage of the city’s first Arab American Festival and the 2008 Arizona Black Expo. Sharpe entered his work in the online/new media category.
  
“We’d like to salute Ed Sharpe and the Daily Planet for not only the quality but volume of his submissions,” AABJ President Weldon Johnson said. “Ed has demonstrated a commitment to showcasing the diversity of experiences of Glendale’s residents. He has also exhibited a great enthusiasm for concept of community journalism and telling the stories of all of the people of Glendale.”

This is Sharpe’s second Arizona Media Diversity Award.

Entries were judged on displaying the fundamental elements of journalism while reflecting the spirit of diversity in content and subject matter.

About AABJ: The Arizona Association of Black Journalists - www.azblackjournalists.org - is an affiliate chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists. Founded in 1995, AABJ is dedicated to fostering opportunities for professional and aspiring journalists through various programs and scholarships.

Michael Jackson, A True Icon, Dead at the Age of 50

Nooooooooo! Say it aint so!

The King of Pop! PhxSoul.com's favorite artist of all-time is dead?

Nooooooooo!

It appears that all of the media reports are true ... Michael Jackson, 50, died of a heart attack on June 25, 2009. The same day that Farrah Fawcett passed away.

I'm in a "State of Shock" (please forgive the pun).

Michael Jackson was my all-time favorite recording artist!

I can't tell you how many hours I stood in front of a mirror as a kid and practiced his dance moves! I had the "Thriller" jacket, I had the glove, I even tried to get my mom to buy me a monkey ... needless to say, that didn't happen!

Despite all of the craziness that occurred in Michael Jackson's life before and after he hit it BIG with his "Thriller" album, no one can ever say that he wasn't one of the greatest performers ever!

His list of hits goes on and on and on!

Don't tell me that "Rock With You" wasn't one of the smoothest songs you ever heard!

I still break out with a huge smile when I hear "Billie Jean." Many of my friends beg me to do my Michael Jackson dance routine whenever "Billie Jean" is played at a party! One of my boys even made sure that I was videotaped imitating the King of Pop at his wedding reception! Yes ... I "Remember the Time!"

R.I.P. Michael Jackson ... I hope you truly are at peace! You were the best!

PhxSoul.com family! You are welcome to share your memories about Michael Jackson! Click here to post your Comments!

Rev. Al Sharpton Says He Supports Immigration Reform, But What Else Is He Fighting For?

You may not like the fact that I'm saying this but I have to admit that I haven't been the biggest fan of Rev. Al Sharpton over the years!

Yes, I understand he has been a pivotal figure in the fight for civil rights for the last four or five decades. Without his contributions, I probably wouldn't have the freedom to own PhxSoul.com and say what's on my mind. I completely respect him for his bravery and his willingness to stand up for our rights.

However, I haven't been a fan of the manner in which he serves as one of America's black leaders. He's been loud, boisterous, overbearing and in some cases, he's stood up for people who made him look bad in the end (Tawana Brawley)!

But today, Rev. Al Sharpton made me realize something - he is a smart businessman! You should have seen all of the media that converged on the Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Gymnasium this morning in Phoenix (June 19)! He is a polarizing personality and he knows how to capitalize on his "brand!"

As he spoke to the crowd, I paid attention to the reaction of the crowd and the messages he was conveying. He really got people riled up!

The majority of the attendees were Latino because Rev. Sharpton came to Phoenix to help local politicans and organizations "lobby" for immigration reform. During his speech, Sharpton talked about Section 287(g) of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRAIRA) which basically allows law enforcement to get away with racial profiling! 

Section 287(g) has allowed Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio to make life miserable for Latinos here! Section 287(g) gives his deputies the authority to detain people based on their color! His deputies have raided entire neighborhoods! Remember Arpaio's raids on Guadalupe and Mesa?

That kind of racial profiling is completely unfair and reminds me of the Jim Crow era and all the injustices that our forefathers endured! Rev. Sharpton is absolutely right ... African Americans and Latinos should be working together to stop racial profiling and enact immigration reform.

Rev. Sharpton said all the right things today but I had to wonder ... why is he REALLY here?!

Is he REALLY here to fight for Latinos or is REALLY here to stay relevant? 

No doubt, Rev. Sharpton is a civil rights crusader! He earns his living off divisiveness and racism! And Arizona is a hotbed of divisiveness and racism!

Illegal immigration is a major issue in America that won't see a resolution anytime soon!

If Rev. Sharpton can become of the major faces in the fight for immigration reform, he'll have a job for the rest of his life!

You can't tell me that Rev. Sharpton doesn't have a business interest here! And the fact that he's going to have a "showdown" on television with Arpaio makes me even more curious about his motives!

PhxSoul.com readers - what do you think about Rev. Sharpton's visit to Phoenix area? Is he here for the right reasons? Do you feel that more African Americans should help Latinos fight for their civil rights? Click on the Comments link below to share your thoughts!

Donate to the PhxSoul.com "Redesign Fund" -- Support Our Growth!

PhxSoul.com has BIG DREAMS!

When I originally launched this Website, I only wanted to provide information that would help African Americans grow to love the Phoenix area as much as I do.

I am a native and I wanted to share information about great places to go, fun events and tips for survival in a metropolis with a small black population!

I never could have imagined that I'd have more than 6,000 visitors every month. I never would have foreseen that I'd receive dozens of e-mails per week from people who wanted to spread the word about the events, businesses and organizations through my Website.

I never could have imagined that I'd have a small team of dedicated people to help me grow this Website into the great resource that it is today!

Now it's time for PhxSoul.com to grow into a Website that can provide so much more for the community!

PhxSoul.com wants to offer video, message boards, chat rooms, personal profiles for visitors and more effective advertising opportunities for businesses and corporations.

In order to offer these features, PhxSoul.com needs your help!

PhxSoul.com only asks for a one-time donation (whatever you can give) from readers to help us take this Website to the next level. You can make your donation online with your credit card - your gift will be safely and securely processed by PayPal.com.

Unfortunately, your donation is not tax-deductible but you can take heart in knowing that an investment in PhxSoul.com is an investment in your community.

Your contribution will only be used for the purpose of enhancing PhxSoul.com.

We will use the funds to reconstruct PhxSoul.com into one of the most dynamic Websites you've ever seen! 

Click on the DONATE button above to make your financial gift today!

Thank You to the Following Individuals for Your Support!

Rhoshawndra "Scoop" Carnes
Jasmine Crowe - Myst/Jazz Public Relations
Ed Sharpe and Crew - www.glendaledailyplanet.com
Mimi Ahmed - Mimi Ahmed Photography
Denise J. Matthews
and those who wish to remain Anonymous

Caribbean Fusion Brings Refreshing Flava to the Valley of the Sun

I've known about Caribbean Fusion Restaurant and Bar for a long time, but my wife and I finally had a chance to experience the Scottsdale eatery in June 2009.

It was extremely important for me to bring my wife to Caribbean Fusion for two reasons:

1) She is a native of St. Croix in the United States Virgin Islands so she would be the best judge of the Caribbean cuisine.
2) She offered to pay!

We were both immediately pleased with the coziness of the environment inside and the friendly nature of our server, Judith. We've all been to a black-owned restaurant where the customer service was ... ahem ... downright rude! Everyone in Caribbean Fusion greeted us with a smile or a hello which was refreshing!

The menu featured a number of interesting dishes including jerk T-bone steak, lobster tail, fricassee chicken, Jamaican red peas soup and steamed crawfish.

My wife ordered the Braised Ox Tail with rice and peas and fried plantains. I'm embarassed to say that I gave into my addiction to BBQ and asked for the pork baby back ribs! I had all that Caribbean food at my disposal and I chose an American dish! Yeah, yeah, I know ...

I sampled some of my wife's Ox Tail before I tasted my ribs and it was excellent! Juicy, hot and mixed in with some of the rice! I'm a big fan of Ox Tail so I tried to convince her to trade with me. She wasn't havin' it!

Then I tried my ribs ... fall-off-the-bone meat, with a thick sauce! Caribbean Fusion's won't compare to anything that you'll find in Memphis, Kansas City or Chicago, but they were still tasty.

My favorite Caribbean side dish is fried plantains and Caribbean Fusion's version was pretty good. I think my wife's fried plantains are better.

My wife has had a few bad experiences with Caribbean-inspired restaurants here in the past but she was clearly impressed with this place! We were a little disappointed that we didn't hear any reggae, dancehall or calypso playin' softly in the background.

But all in all, my wife and I agreed that we will be visiting Caribbean Fusion again and again! And she will be payin' again and again!

Caribbean Fusion is located at 2515 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale and is open seven days a week! The phone number is (480)990-1599. Please visit caribbeanfusions.com for more information.

Are Phoenix's African American Networking Events Working for You?

Within the last two or three years, I've noticed a dramatic increase in the number of networking events geared toward African Americans and business owners who  wish to appeal to African Americans in the Phoenix area.

I think it's great to see professionals here trying to utilize these events to establish new contacts and promote their products/services. These networking socials are actually a lot of fun!

However, I wonder how effective these networking happy hours and socials have been for people here.

From an awareness standpoint, these gatherings have been great for PhxSoul.com! They've allowed me to spread the word to thousands of people who may have never heard about my Website! From a monetary standpoint, I haven't seen the "full fruits" of my labor but things are improving. I get positive feedback about PhxSoul.com from almost everyone I meet and that makes everything I do worthwhile.  

But I want PhxSoul.com readers to chime in ...

• What benefits have you experienced as a result of your participation at networking events in Phoenix?
• How do often do you attend networking events in Phoenix?
• What is your main goal when you attend networking socials?
• What are the general reactions that you receive from others when you are making your "sales pitch?"
• Do we have too many networking gatherings in the Phoenix area?
• Do you prefer to just network with African Americans or are you trying to connect with potential clients/customers of all races?
• If you have suggestions to improve the networking events, what are they?
• Have you shared your suggestions with the organizers of the networking events?
• Other feedback?

Please feel free to share your answers by clicking on the Comments link below!

A+ for President Obama's ASU Graduation Speech!!

President Barack Obama taught Arizona State University a lesson on May 13, 2009. Your Body of Work Is Never Done!

He encouraged graduates to measure their success in a different way. It's not the material things that signify your achievements.

It's how you impact others, it's the community service you perform, it's what you do to make the United States a better nation. The Class of 2009 and all Americans have a duty to put aside their material aspirations. Instead, we all need to become emotionally wealthier by figuring out how we can help others who are in need.

If Arizona State University doesn't think that Barack Obama hasn't positively impacted millions of people, that he hasn't or won't perform impressive feats for communities across America or hasn't helped our country become better by encouraging us all do our best ... maybe President Michael Crowe and his staff don't understand what success is all about.

In a clever, thought-provoking, inspirational manner, President Obama's speech hopefully helped ASU officials to reconsider how they evaluate those who should be deserving of an honorary degree. It's not the number of bullet points on the resume, it's number of people you can impact for the rest of your days!

I can't even imagine how everyone at Sun Devil Stadium felt, but I watched Obama's commencement speech from home and I am fired up to continuing doing what I can to make the world a better place! How can you not love this President? Could George W. Bush and John McCain motivate you the way President Obama has?

How do you feel PhxSoul.com readers - what's your take on President Obama's speech at Arizona State University's graduation ceremony?

Please click on the Comments link below to share your thoughts!

President Obama Is Here for the 2009 ASU Graduating Class! Why Are So Many Other People Complaining?

President Barack Obama is scheduled to deliver his commencement speech to the graduating ASU class at 7:52 PM on Wednesday. Commencement starts at 7 PM. Obama is set to arrive on Air Force One just before 6 PM and leave at around 9:30 PM. Obama's visit to Sun Devil Stadium is expected to draw more than 60,000 people!

I've been reading the coverage on azcentral.com regarding President Barack Obama's participation in the Arizona State University graduation ceremonies. And frankly, I have to say that I'm disturbed by the negative stories and most of the comments that I've read on the message boards!

I'm not one to pull out the racism card very often, but the hateration spewed by many azcentral.com readers doesn't make any sense to me! I can't think of any other logical reason why so many people are complaining about his visit here!

There are stories that point out the expected traffic jams, light rail congestion and security restrictions. Yeah, yeah, yeah ... we've had presidents visit the Phoenix area before and the same damn restrictions were in place then! Roads were closed, security was tight, blah, blah, blah ... we dealt with it then, we can deal with it now! When you are hosting the Leader of the Free World, you have to make sure he (or she) is safe, right?

But it seems that people have taken their whining about President Obama's visit to a whole other level! C'mon man, he'll be here for less than four hours!

I'd say that 90 percent of the idiots complaining won't be affected by at all by the traffic jams, security inconveniences, etc. They don't have children who are graduating from ASU! They won't be riding the light rail that night. They probably don't even live near Sun Devil Stadium!

They just want a VEILED reason to complain about Obama!

He's only been in office for three or four months! He hasn't been in office long enough to rescue or ruin America! He's just beginning to establish his policies - we won't know for years whether Obama's decisions are good or bad for our country! 

Bottom line, it doesn't make any sense for all these Arizonans to be complaining ... except one reason ... they are absolutely PISSED that a black man is President of the United States! They can't stand to see him on TV everyday! You know it makes them sick! Yeah, I said it! His confidence, intelligence, calm demeanor, amazing personality ... Obama detractors can't contain their hatred!

Did you already forget that George W. Bush brought America to its knees?!

I just want all these complainers to remember that Obama is only here to help the ASU 2009 graduates celebrate their incredible accomplishments! I'm sure he has some political motivations, but I think he genuinely wants to give the graduates a speech that they can remember for a lifetime!

Even though Mr. PhxSoul.com is a proud Arizona Wildcat, I salute the ASU 2009 graduating class and I hope that President Obama makes your day a special one!!

I invite all readers to Comment on this post - it is a FREE country! What are your thoughts on Obama's visit to ASU?

Best Places to Find Professional Black WOMEN in the Phoenix Area

A long time ago, I wrote an article about the Best Places to Find Professional Black Men in the Phoenix Area.

It was my attempt to help African American women pinpoint locations in the Valley where African American are seen in bunches most often.

In hindsight, I should have written about the Best Places to Find Professional Black Women in the Phoenix Area - a looooong time ago! Yes, this article is long overdue because it's HIGH time for black men to do a better job of pursuing these eligible bachelorettes! Of course, negroes still have to know how to talk a woman - I can't do ALL the work for you!

As a black man, I'm absolutely shocked to see black women outnumbering us at professional and community-oriented events! They normally outnumber us by a 3-to-1 ratio! And we're talkin' about beautiful black women who are looking to further their careers and contribute to the well-being of our society! When I meet the women in these environments, they are usually (not always) approachable, attractive, friendly and interesting!

I constantly find myself wondering where are the single brothas?

Even though I'm married and love my wife dearly, many of the women that I meet at networking socials and organizational meetings make my heart skip a beat. It's absolutely thrilling to meet these educated, independent and confident women! Remember ... I said I love my wife and she is the queen of my heart!

Without further ado FELLAS, put down your PlayStation controllers, step away from your computers, leave the basketball courts and TAKE NOTICE!

Here are the Top Best Places to Find Professional Black Women in the Phoenix Area:

5. Fundraisers - Of course you'll see more couples at fundraisers, but you'll also have opportunities to meet single African American females. You'll have more luck if you attend events that are hosted by women's organizations! If you don't meet your future wife at a local fundraiser, take heart in the fact that your donation contributed to a great cause!! 

4. Spoken Word/Live Music Events - I've seen some stunners at the local Spoken Word shows and concerts featuring up-and-coming R&B, soul and hip-hop artists! Groups of black women by themselves having a great time! Support the spoken word events and concerts - you'll be entertained by the performers and the eye-candy!

3. Church - It's amazing how many single black women are filling the pews at our local places of worship! But don't be trying to spit game during the sermons! Have some common sense and figure out the right time to do work!

2. House Parties - House Parties have always offered great opportunities to meet women. We've all know how it goes ... you see a girl across the room, your friend happens to know her, you get introduced and if your breath aint doo-doo, you gettin' them digits son!!

1. Social Networking/Happy Hour Events - There are dozens of professional and community groups who hold social networking functions. These Happy Hour events offer low-pressure opportunities to hold great conversations with members of the opposite sex! You don't have to worry about asking them to dance and you don't have to talk over loud music! You can just be yourself and see how things go!

I hope this article helps to stimulate some more love connections in the Valley of the Sun! If you have other suggestions on places to meet black females in the Phoenix metro area (keep it clean), share your Comments!

How Are You Staying Strong While Our Economy Appears to Be Getting Weaker?

With the economy in a deep recession, President Barack Obama is trying to do everything in his power to stem the tide of job losses, foreclosures and business failures.

However, his policies haven't yet taken hold so Americans are continuing to hurt financially, emotionally, mentally and physically.

All the doom and gloom in the media is making Mr. PhxSoul.com ill so I'm in search of some inspiration! I'd like to know how Arizonans are managing to stay positive in these tough times! Even though we can't completely fix the economy, I believe that we can get ourselves back on the road to feeling more confident and hopeful if we share our personal strategies for staying afloat in these muddy waters!

You never know, you might just read or write something today that will change a life forever!

I'd like for PhxSoul.com readers to submit positive, inspirational and helpful tips, advice and stories about how you are coping with the troubled economy:

• What are some of the unique ways you are reducing personal expenses?
• How do you entertain yourself without having to spend a great deal of money?
• What creative ideas have you developed at your job to generate sales and revenue?
• If you are searching for a job, how do you set yourself apart from other candidates?
• Have you learned new skills?
• Have you considered working in fields that are completely different from your normal skill-set? 
• Do you have a hobby that you've turned into a money-making business?
• Do you know about any programs that have helped you overcome financial troubles?
  

Please do not submit your personal contact information or solicitations for personal donations.

You can click on the Comments link below to get started!

Has the Obama Honeymoon in America Ended?

After watching the State of the Black Union and Rush Limbaugh's tirade on C-SPAN last weekend, one question kept lingering in my mind ... Has the Obama Honeymoon in America Ended?

The State of the Black Union program was an eye-opening reminder that African Americans need to hold their political leaders accountable. For the most part, we tend to just be satisfied that black people are actually being elected to city, county, state and federal offices. We rarely check up on our African American politicians to see what kind of a difference they are making.

Unfortunately, I don't quite know how to make our leaders accountable aside from writing letters about issues that matter to me.

Do we need to appoint a citizen council? Or do we have effective organizations in place to represent African American citizens such as the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs, Greater Phoenix Urban League, Maricopa County NAACP or African American Strategic Leadership Group?

It seems to me that if we're going to have major media blowhards like Rush Limbaugh yellin' and screamin' on television and radio about they want Obama to fail, we better get educated about politics and how Obama is running the United States!

Truthfully, deep down in my heart, I was mad when I saw Limbaugh's rant on television because he was unapologetically disrespecting the most powerful black man in the world. I have to wonder if I would be as furious at Limbaugh if our new president was white, Asian, Hispanic or a woman! The reality is ... I would not be angry! I can recall laughing at all of the jokes about former president George Bush for the past eight years. I wasn't upset then! But now that we have a black man in office, I can't stand to see anyone criticize him!

So I ask ... is it already time for us to end the euphoria over Barack Obama's historic election to the White House? Is it time for us to get down to business, get over the racial aspect and find out how Obama's decisions are going to affect our futures?

I support my new President and his efforts to get our nation back on track, but I know I won't be doing myself or my country any favors if I don't take race out of the equation and judge him on his merits and actions!

I'd love for PhxSoul.com readers to share your thoughts and feedback about how we can hold Obama and our other black politicians accountable. Is the honeymoon over? How do we check up on our leaders? And how do we keep our racial allegiances in check?

Top 10 Observations about NBA All-Star Weekend 2009 in the Phoenix Area

Whew! The 2009 NBA All-Star Weekend circus has FINALLY ended in the Valley of the Sun!

I have to admit that it was really exciting to see the downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale streets, hotels, restaurants and other businesses jam-packed with black people from all over the country! And thank you to everyone in the Valley who told me that PhxSoul.com was their go-to spot for NBA party information! It made me feel good to know that PhxSoul.com helped you have a good time!

I hope this grand event gave downtown Phoenix the economic shot in the arm that it desperately needed!

For those who know me well, Mr. PhxSoul.com is a people-watcher! I love to watch people do what they do and I certainly saw A LOT of people do A LOT of interesting things! If you don't mind, I'd like to share my Top 10 Observations about the 2009 NBA All-Star Weekend:

• Why did all of the event ticket prices have to be so expensive? We do realize that millions of people are jobless and the nation's economy is in the worst shape that it's been in decades, right?
• The police presence seemed to make a lot of African Americans in Phoenix and Scottsdale VERY uncomfortable! I understand why it was necessary to have more uniformed and undercover officers pounding the pavement. However, I have to wonder if it was necessary to make us feel as if we were Public Enemy #1!
• Speaking of the police, I can't tell you how many times I heard black people complaining about the racist treatment they received in Scottsdale. Many black people felt like they were NOT welcome! I can definitely understand African Americans' perception because my friend and I had our own negative experience with po-po! We got pulled over for a minor traffic infraction, but the cops treated us as if we committed a murder! The officer had a serious fire in his eyes when he screamed at my friend to "get out of the car!" He didn't ask my friend if he had been drinking, he straight up told my friend, "I know you've been drinking! Step out of the car now!" In the end, nothing bad happened to us and the cops became nicer, but somebody really needs to investigate how the Scottsdale task force deals with minorities!
• This weekend was not a good look for the Phoenix Suns organization. All the trade talk about Amar'e Stoudemire and the rumors about coach Terry Porter getting fired was extremely embarrassing.
• How many beautiful black women did we see this weekend? I know I saw some of God's best work ever created! Personally, I loved seeing the women who wore appealing and modest outfits instead of the ones who had all of the body parts hangin' out!
• On the other hand, I need to know what's up with this rooster-style hairstyle that black women were rockin' this weekend?
• When are the brothas gonna stop wearin' their sunglasses at night? Why do we have such a love affair with Swisher Sweets? And is it against the law for brothas to smile in public? The mean-muggin' was off tha charts!!
• Thanks to the party promoters who showed love to PhxSoul.com this All-Star Weekend. Serious shout-outs go to the "Welcome to the City Party" crew and Steve from 944 Magazine!
• Unfortunately, I re-learned one major lesson this weekend ... the doorman is the most powerful person at all nightclubs! I'm REALLY heated because I missed Common's performance at the 944 Magazine party! Why? I was stuck in line when his concert started! I knew the main promoter for the party but I didn't know the DOORMAN!! Oops!
• If you are a party promoter who asked to have your event featured on PhxSoul.com (for FREE) and failed to at least offer me tickets in appreciation ... SHAME ON YOU!! There's no way that I would have had time to hit EVERY event but for you to not even make an offer is just bad business and poor etiquette! But I thank you for promoting your events on PhxSoul.com!

Thanks to the NBA for bringing some serious excitement and controversy to the Valley of the Sun! We'll see you in another 15 years!

If you'd like to share your observations about the All-Star Weekend, click on the "Comments" link below and fire away!

Arizona Commission on African American Affairs In Danger of Being Cut! Don't Let This Happen!

This is a developing story ... please stay tuned for more details!

According to Arizona Senator Leah Landrum Taylor, the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs (ACAAA) is on the chopping block!

The state's budget crisis is forcing lawmakers to make large-scale cuts in education and other programs. It appears that the ACAAA which was established in 2007 through the leadership of Governor Janet Napolitano, Landrum Taylor and Representative Cloves Campbell Jr., could be one of the dismantled programs!

Although many local African Americans may not be familiar with ACAAA, we must realize that we can't afford to lose the Commission because it allows us to have a clear voice in government. The ACAAA aims to create new leadership for Arizona through addressing the challenges that face all of the state’s residents. Through town halls, conferences and forums, new ideas and concepts are created within the African American context which leads to innovative new solutions that all communities can use.

Senator Landrum Taylor urges Arizona residents to call Gov. Jan Brewer's office at (602) 542-4311 to protest the recommendation to shut down the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs.

"It's not over until the gavel is banged," said Landrum Taylor. "While the State is still considering budget cuts, it's important for Arizona residents to call lawmakers such as the governor, the Arizona State Senate President (Robert Burns) and the Speaker of the House (Kirk Adams). Tell the team you do not support the recommendation to cut the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs! It's never too late to make your voice heard!"

2008 Was Great for Black People in the Phoenix Area!

Russell Crowe's character Maximus Decimus Meridius has a great line in the movie, Gladiator:

"Are you not entertained? Are you not entertained? ..."

I sometimes want to ask people that same question as the number of black community events and entertainment options continues to grow in the Phoenix area.

I'm a native of Phoenix and even though I've always loved living here, my most memorable and positive experiences as an African American in the Valley occurred during the year 2008!

Of course, there are people who won't agree with me because they have moved to Arizona from predominately African American cities and they are unhappy with the lack of black culture here. You're all entitled to your opinions ...

I have lived in and visited predominately African American cities and I agree that Phoenix has a long way to go before it can be known as a "mecca" for black people. To tell you the truth, I don't think Phoenix will ever become a "mecca" for black people because the Southwest is much more of a melting pot. In the Southwest, people have pride in their own races but many of them also enjoy mingling with people of various backgrounds. I love that aspect of living in the Southwest.   

However, the Valley's black community made great strides toward unity and prosperity in 2008.

For example, the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce saw tremendous growth in its membership and hosted two of the best black community events that Phoenix has ever held (aside from the MLK marches of the early 1990s). I had so much fun and met some amazing people at the Black Chamber's Barack Obama Election Watching party in November and the 10th Anniversary Gala in December! I've attended a lot of celebrations in my day and the Barack Obama Election Watching party ranks up there in my Top Five of all-time!

The Arizona Black Expo in October in Glendale was a tremendous gathering! Wasn't it beautiful to see thousands of people of ALL races come together to support black businesses, entertainers and organizations?

What about the Arizona Black Film Showcase and the Miss Black Arizona pageant? They were fantastic events. Moreover, the Black History Month and the MLK Celebrations throughout the Phoenix area certainly inspired us to maintain a sense of pride and dedication to uplifting our heritage!

The Black Theatre Troupe, Black Poet Ventures, VYBE, HomeBase and the Poet Bar are just a few of the organizations that have electrified the arts and spoken word scenes in the Phoenix area.

The live music scene in the Phoenix area is starting to offer a host of impressive and consistent options including Doc's Place, Vocé Lounge, Warren's Jazz Bistro and Bobby's. Of course, we've never had a shortage of nightclubs!

African Americans such as Cloves Campbell, Jr., Sandra Kennedy, Cody Williams and Leah Landrum-Taylor were elected to various city and state offices. Let's hope that our numbers continue to rise so we can improve our imprint on Arizona politics and society!

Numerous other civic organizations held fundraisers and activities to help strengthen our community! Let's hope that more people get involved with these groups in 2009!   

There are many other people, organizations and groups who helped make 2008 a great year for African Americans ... unfortunately I don't have time to list them all! It is heartwarming and exciting to see more and more African Americans moving to Arizona. And I think the Internet is allowing our small black community to communicate more frequently and openly.

I hope that in 2009 we all continue to entertain the notion that Phoenix can have a different identity from many East Coast and Southern cities and STILL be a great place for black people to live and thrive! 

Let Charles Barkley Be a Lesson For All of Us on New Year's Eve - Get a Designated Driver!

Are you kidding me?  Are you %$@#&+$ kidding me?

Charles Barkley, the former NBA legend and current TNT basketball analyst, was arrested in Scottsdale early Tuesday on suspicion of drinking and driving?

Please click HERE to read the story!

As they say on ESPN ... C'mon man!!

I'm sorry folks, I know we are all human and we are bound to make mistakes but this is inexcusable! Anyone in his/her right mind knows that it's foolish to be ridin' dirty in Scottsdale! The po-pos are out in serious force every weekend! I rarely go to Scottsdale because the cops can't wait to swarm on you! And please don't tell me this is racial - the police in Scottsdale enjoy arresting people of ALL cultures!

Are you telling me that Charles Barkley can't afford a cab? Are you telling me that Charles Barkley didn't have a friend that he could call to take him home?

Yes, yes, yes, I know we are all innocent until proven guilty. Yes, yes, yes, I know Charles Barkley said that athletes are not role models.

However, Charles has A LOT to lose because of this error in judgment. Does he think that he'll be able to run for governor in Alabama with a DUI on his record? Will he be able to keep his job at TNT? Will he lose other endorsement deals?

Worse yet, what if Charles seriously hurt or killed somebody while he was ALLEGEDLY driving drunk?

He doesn't have a squeaky clean past so this most recent blunder will be a BIG DEAL in the news! The media will jump all over this!

I hope Charles learns a HUGE lesson from this incident!

Moreover, I hope ALL of you have a SAFE New Year's Eve! Please DO NOT DRINK and DRIVE!!    

THE ED. SPECIALIST: School Safety

Submitted by Nikki Powell
December 2008

Has your son or daughter’s school ever called and left a message regarding a school safety issue?

Recently, a friend of mine called me about a message left by her children’s school regarding a school incident. The “incident” involved a bomb threat found in the bathroom. As a parent, my friend wanted to know, “Should I take my kids out of school? How could this happen at a ‘good’ school? Is it normal for schools to simply leave a message?”

First, let me start with the last question. When school safety is threatened, communication is of the utmost importance. Schools want to disseminate information before parents see it on the news. So, “Yes,” it is normal for schools to use an auto-dialer to call parents to relay factual information.  Sometimes, schools may use an email blast, in addition to the Parent Link phone dialing system. Subsequently, it is important to maintain up to date contact information with the school.

Second, I don’t think the kid(s) should be taken out of school. Unfortunately, no place carries a guarantee of safety. And, with incidents like Columbine, and more recently, the Virginia Tech shootings, safety precautions are paramount. Moreover, schools are relatively safe. Again, it is important for parents, teachers, and administrators to stay in communication regarding school safety issues.

And last, school safety issues do not discriminate based on location, income levels, nor race. No school is vaccinated from school safety problems. Schools aim to provide students with a safe, secure learning environment. Many schools have the following precautions set in place: all visitors must sign in, ID badges must be visible, and there are city police officers on campus (commonly referred to as Resource Officers), in addition to security personnel at some campuses.  All schools should have some type of crisis/prevention management plan set in place – just in case.

If you have questions regarding school safety in your area, contact your local school and familiarize yourself with their plan of action.

Nikki Powell has an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from George Washington University. In addition, she has a Master’s degree in Secondary Education from Northern Arizona University. She has taught for more than seven years at the middle and high school level. She is currently teaching high school in the city of Phoenix. Powell will write a series of articles for PhxSoul.com covering a variety of educational topics. However, Powell's articles do not necessarily reflect the views of PhxSoul.com. For questions or comments, please e-mail Powell at Phx.Ed.Specialist@gmail.com or click on the Comments link below.

U.S. Secret Service Needs to Step Up Its Game!

Maaaaan, if I was Barack Obama, I'd be a little less confident about the U.S. Secret Service after that Iraqi reporter threw his shoes at current President George W. Bush yesterday!

I have to admit that Bush showed some pretty good reflexes by dodging those shoes! However, I wish he could've showed some good judgment during his two terms in the White House!

How in the $@&# was that reporter able to get off a two-shoed attack on the President during the press conference? What was the Secret Service doing? Seemed to me that the Iraqi reporter had at least 5 seconds to pull off his second shoe.

What's even more amazing is that the reporter's act of showing the soles of his shoes is considered the ultimate insult in Arab culture! After the overthrow of Saddam Hussein in 2003, Iraqi people were filmed battering his fallen statue in Baghdad with their shoes.

Even though millions of people abroad have praised Obama's victory, there is still a tremendous anti-American sentiment around the world.

This shoe attack is a prime example of why Americans need to feel somewhat relieved that we elected the Obama-Biden team. If something - God forbid - happened to Obama, I'd be at ease with Joe Biden as our nation's leader. Could you imagine what would happen if we elected John McCain and something - God forbid - happened to him?

We'd have Sarah Palin as our President! I would move to Canada immediately!

I hope this is a major wake-up call for the U.S. Secret Service! Get your act together!

Does the Phoenix Area Need an All-Black Neighborhood?

In the past I've written about African Americans and how we are spread throughout the Valley of the Sun.

We live in Phoenix, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale, Peoria, Glendale, Chandler, Goodyear ... we live in the big city and all the suburbs!

But the whining from people who move here from "black" cities continues ... why doesn't Phoenix have a "black" side of town?! Why don't we have much culture?

I've been a longtime supporter of our ability to live in all parts of the Valley of the Sun. Phoenix is great because African Americans have a great opportunity to thrive professionally, educationally, socially and financially!

You can buy homes on the cheap, find a good job or establish your own business and college tuition is still low compared to other areas of the country.

But maybe, just maybe, some of the whiners are right!

Maybe we need to concentrate on claiming one part of the Valley as our own! A place where we can always go to feel that sense of unity. We'll have thousands of people just excited to be amongst each other - that would be a beautiful sight to see!

We'll have museums, theatre, restaurants, barber shops, hair salons, churches, schools, nightclubs ... black culture all in one area! I have to admit that in theory, it sounds wonderful. It really does!

But we already have all these things and more in Phoenix! It would take millions and millions of dollars to uproot what we've currently established all over the Valley and move it all to one section!

And where in the Phoenix area would we create our "Negroville?"

Back in the day, we used to have south Phoenix locked down! African Americans still have large numbers on the southside ... would it be easier for us to pack up our things and take over all the homes and businesses south of Broadway Road?

I don't know Phoenix ... I'm more in favor of us continuing to live and do business in ALL parts of the Valley. We are being exposed to many different cultures and lifestyles and I think this presents wonderful opportunities for our children.

What are your thoughts PhxSoul.com readers?

Should we set up shop in one area of the Valley or should we reside wherever we decide? What would make you feel more at home in the Phoenix area?

Click HERE to share your Comments!

We Shall Overcome the Arizona Daily Wildcat Comic Strip Controversy

So I'm guessing that many of you have heard about the racially offensive comic strip about President-Elect Barack Obama that was published in The Daily Wildcat newspaper at the University of Arizona.

If you haven't seen the comic strip yet, click HERE.

As an alum of the University of Arizona, I was extremely disappointed in the judgment of The Daily Wildcat. At a time when the nation should be celebrating a tremendous achievement in American history and race relations, this comic strip definitely was not necessary.

The comic strip, created by artist Keith "Keef" Knight (who is black), should have been run several weeks BEFORE the election when it was more relevant to discuss how the issue of how racism would affect Obama's chances for victory.

Now The Arizona Daily Wildcat is suspending its use of Knight's comic strip. In the end, the editor in chief apologized to the community and explained how the newspaper will revamp its editing efforts. Unfortunately, the brotha lost his Wildcat audience! I'm not sure who got hurt more in this whole deal!

However, I'm a huge supporter of my alma mater and this unfortunate mistake is not a reflection of the school that I love. The University of Arizona is an incredible institution and African Americans who want to receive a quality college education would be smart to study there. My 4.5 years in Tucson were some of the best times of my life!

Let's move on and keep the Obama positivity flowing!

Obama Supporters Celebrate Presidential Victory at Phoenix Black Chamber Party

Editor's Note: The Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce Election Watch Party was an incredible event! It was absolutely amazing to see hundreds of Obama supporters of all races there to support him and his efforts to help the United States get back on its feet! Kudos to the Black Chamber and all who attended!

PHOENIX (November 5, 2008) - The Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce celebrated the historic victory of Barack Obama with a monumental Watch Party at Stoudemire's Downtown Phoenix!

History unfolded last night as the 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama, was elected the first black President of the United States.

The celebration was seen all around the world in cites such as Obama's own Chicago, to his father's country of Kenya and even Obama, Japan, and the moment was felt amongst the African-American guests who packed Stoudamiere's  downtown Phoenix, AZ to join the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce (GPBCC) and elected hosts to witness this moment. 

The Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce created an opportunity for Arizona residents to not only witness the change and celebrate the success of Obama, but also interact with African-American local and state newly elected officials in the community including: Rep. Cloves Campbell, Hon. Sandra Kennedy, Councilman Michael Johnson, Sen. Leah Landrum-Taylor an Judge Cody Williams.

The esteemed event which began at 6 PM, filled up quickly as people in their Obama attire filled the room for the countdown to history. Signage of Obama, Campbell, Kennedy and Landrum surrounded the building and the party began as CNN counted down the race to 270 with cheers from the crowd, each time Obama won a state.

However, no cheers were as loud or as memorable as those the moment, Obama was pronounced President-Elect. The crowd erupted, in cheers and tears as the DJ played the classic Stevie Wonder hit, Signed, Sealed, and Delivered. 

Obama signs became a hot commodity at that point and were ripped off of the walls and pumped in the air by many happy supporters. A quiet room followed as Obama gave his acceptance speech at Giant Park in Chicago, Illinois to silent tears of joy and happiness from the many attendees. Black Poet Ventures, delivered several powerful poetic pieces as Councilman Johnson and GPBCC President Ron Busby gave memorable speeches to commemorate that moment.

"This is one of the greatest moments of my life, I am speechless really, but filled with joy that the world can't take away," said Cloves Campbell, newly re- elected House Representative.

Busby stated, "This is a very exciting time for the African-American community, we've already made history with Barack Obama becoming the first African-American presidential nominee, and we are ready for change. Forty years after the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. the reality is real, he not only stands for African-American success, but for change the world so desperately needs. We as an African-American community are celebrating his rise to success and we plan to celebrate this monumental time with him." 

The change has come, a new day has begun and in the words of Barack Obama and his many supporters, "Yes We Did!"

Submit Your Photos: Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce Election Watch Party

PhxSoul.com would like to commemorate the Black Chamber of Commerce Election Watch Party with a Photo Slideshow! If you were in attendance on Tuesday night, PhxSoul.com invites you to send an e-mail to info@phxsoul.com with ONE or TWO photos of yourself. If multiple individuals are featured in your photo(s), your submission affirms that all individuals have given you permission to use their likeness on PhxSoul.com. By sending your photo to info@phxsoul.com, you are giving PhxSoul.com full, legal permission to use your likeness and the likeness of all individuals featured in your photo(s). Thank you for your cooperation. PhxSoul.com reserves the right to reject submitted photos.

President-Elect Barack Obama - Such a Refreshing Change!

As I celebrated Barack Obama's presidential election victory during the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce Watch Party at Stoudemire's Downtown, I couldn't help but to think about our ancestors.

Our ancestors truly paved the way for this incredible moment in our nation's history! They fought against and risked their lives to end slavery, racism, voting disenfranchisement and so many other injustices.

There is no way that a President Barack Obama could ever be possible without the strength, courage and vision displayed by our forefathers and predecessors. For that, I will be eternally grateful!

However, it is my sincere hope that people realize that Obama's election is a win for ALL of America - not just African Americans.

After the eight years of ineptness under George W. Bush's administration, I am fully confident that Obama will get our nation back on track.

It's a lot to ask but I have full faith that Obama's administration will develop systems and strategies to improve our economy, end the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, enhance our health care system and provide a quality education for all youth. Again, these are tall orders but I have doubt Obama will do what he has been promising during his campaign.

I urge the American people to have patience because as Obama said during his speech in Chicago's Grant Park, it's going to take many years for him to rectify the damage Bush and Dick Cheney have done. We can't be foolish enough to think that he'll fix all of our problems overnight.

Furthermore, I encourage African Americans to understand that Obama must be a president who serves ALL people, not just our race's needs. If he can unite a vast majority of the citizens in our great country, Obama will succeed!

Yes We Can!

PhxSoul.com wants to know your thoughts on Barack Obama's election to the Presidential Office of the United States! What are your hopes for the future?

Click HERE to leave your Comments!

ABC 15 Jumps on the Black Community Bandwagon

Boy oh boy! We negroes are in vogue now!

Channel 15 recently came up with a TV report about the Black Community's feelings about Obama and his run for the presidential office!

I'm a journalist by trade and I have to say that it makes me laugh that we're getting all of this coverage.

It's a double-edged sword because on one hand, it's great that we're finally receiving some primetime attention. However, it bothers me because many media members want you to believe that RACE is NOT an issue in this election!

If race is NOT an issue, then why are WE in the spotlight all of a sudden?

Makes you wanna say hmmmmm ...

Well, I am hoping that we'll continue to receive increased, positive coverage from the Valley media that seek our opinions on local and national issues after the election.

Goodwill of Central Arizona Doing Good Things for Jobseekers, Community

Times are tough these days - especially if you are searching for a job!

And times are even tougher for people who lack the basic education, work experience or skills to find a good job! Moreover, it's really for people who don't know where to turn for help.

Have you heard about Goodwill of Central Arizona?

I'm sure many of you have seen or even shopped at the Goodwill stores. But do you know what happens to the money earned in the Goodwill stores?

The funds help people find jobs, earn a high school education, get scholarships for college and much more!

If you (or someone you know) are searching for a job, you should seriously consider visiting one of the nine Goodwill Career Centers in the Valley of the Sun. There's also a Goodwill Career Center in Yuma.

The Goodwill Career Centers offer a wide range of free services and employment information, such as current job openings, market information, resume and interview help, computer use and weekly job fairs.

I've personally witnessed how Goodwill positively impacts peoples' lives. The career advisors go above and beyond the call of duty to provide assistance to jobseekers and individuals in need. 

Click HERE for more information on the Goodwill Career Centers!

East Valley Tribune Goin' Down in Flames! What's the Future of Journalism?

Sad news from the East Valley Tribune ... it appears that the newspaper will lay off 142 people (almost 40 percent of its staff) by January 2009 and will stop delivering to Scottsdale and Tempe homes.

Also, the East Valley Tribune will go from a seven-day-per-week publishing cycle to only four days per week!

As a journalism professional and former employee of the East Valley Tribune, this truly breaks my heart. It is a true testament to the fact that newspapers are becoming dinosaurs and the U.S. economy is in SERIOUS trouble! I wish nothing but the best for my former colleagues who will be affected by the reduction in force.

Here's the article from the East Valley Tribune:

http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/127527

As a result of this major shake-up, the Arizona Republic will surely become the 400-pound gorilla of the Valley! However, I'm concerned that the future of the Republic may not be totally secure.

It appears that more and more people are turning to television and the Internet for their immediate news fix. This is great for PhxSoul.com but not-so-good for printed publications that publish their news one day later. By the time, we get our newspapers, we are reading OLD news!

So, how do newspapers stop the bleeding?

My former journalism professors at the University of Arizona would probably take me out to the woodshed for saying this, but I think newspapers need to throw objectivity out of the window!

This may sound ridiculous to some people, but I think daily news organizations need to start encouraging their reporters to become paper shock jocks! Everything they write needs to tap into peoples' emotions while telling the facts!

Readers love controversy, they love to argue with someone and they love to be influenced!

Why don't newspapers take a cue from Bill O'Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, Don Imus and Howard Stern? These guys are making a boatload of money and have a great deal of fame because they don't hold back! They don't have any strict rules about using "confirmed sources" for their stories! They just spit fire and collect big paychecks!

Newspaper reporters need to quit being so soft! They need to make readers laugh, cry, scream and cheer! If a reporter thinks that a murderer is scumbag, he or she should write that in the story! If a reporter thinks that an athlete is a spoiled brat who doesn't deserve the millions that he is getting paid, he or she should write that in the story! Quit dancing around the real truths - tell us what you think instead of being fair and unbiased!

If newspaper reporters can change the game, I think more readers would be more interested and buy more subscriptions! 

If the newspapers want to hold onto tradition and report the straight-forward, unbiased, objective facts, they can publish those stories on their Websites! This way, you'll still be able to restore true journalism.

However, I think it's time to put the real juicy, hard-hitting, opinionated pieces for the printed publications so you can save the newspaper industry!!  

Are Black Organizations in the Phoenix Area Hosting Too Many Fundraisers?

One of my good friends consistently repeats this statement to me, "Work smarter, not harder."

During the last five years, I've noticed an explosion in the number of fundraising events that African Americans and black organizations are hosting in the Phoenix area.

The African American community has dozens of civic groups, nonprofits, churches, greek organizations, alumni clubs, committees, professional associations and a chamber of commerce in the Valley of the Sun!

I encourage these organizations to continue with their efforts to make the Phoenix area a better place for ALL of our of citizens!

However, I also want to advise ALL of them to consider collaborating more often - especially on fundraising events!

Fall and Spring are usually the busy seasons for fundraisers in the Phoenix area!

If I attended every single gathering in the Valley of the Sun, I'd be in debt up to my eyebrows! It seems like all of the agencies, big and small, are tripping over each other for our attention and our dollars! Remember, only 3-5 percent of the population in Maricopa County is African American!

My suggestion is for three to five smaller African American organizations to partner up with one of the larger black groups in the Valley for mega charity functions. Or better yet, we could have a few large-scale MULTICULTURAL fundraisers each year. This way, people of all races can work together to support each other and learn about a variety of causes. The participating agencies can decide how they divide all of the proceeds after each event.

I think this would make things easier for ALL residents in the Phoenix area. Planning and attending these events takes a lot of work and a lot of money!

Maybe if we can work smarter, we can all reap greater financial, emotional, social, professional and personal rewards!

Affirmative Action: Should America Keep It or Let It Die?

As we all know (or should know), Affirmative Action is a hot-button topic in the news today.

Barack Obama's and Hillary Clinton's overwhelming success in the presidential race have proven that minorities are seeing great progress in this country. As a result of Obama's and Clinton's achievements, the mainstream media is starting to question the relevance of affirmative action.

For example, azcentral.com has a blog titled, "Time to End Affirmative Action?"

The blog asks if it is now time to end affirmative action because the presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton show the time has come to do away with special efforts to place minorities and women in coveted jobs and schools. 

I recently had a discussion with some of my caucasian friends about affirmative action and they all agreed that affirmative action is a form of reverse discrimination. Moreover, white people are frustrated with affirmative action! In their eyes, affirmative action and minority quota systems have denied many white people opportunities to earn a college education, be hired for quality jobs and bid on/win government contracts. They contend that in order for the United States to truly achieve equality, "exceptions" for people based on gender and race must be eradicated.

They wanted to see proposals like the Arizona Civil Rights Initiative appear on the November ballot because it's time for people to stop receiving promotions and scholarships based on their race and gender. 

I'm glad that the Arizona Civil Rights Initiative was disqualified, but I have to admit that the opponents make some extremely valid points.

It's clear that minorities are more successful now than ever! We own businesses, we own land, we are executives in large corporations, we hold top political positions, we are college presidents ... minorities are making tremendous achievements in America! But I largely credit affirmative action with helping us achieve prosperity after slavery and the Civil Rights era.

To suggest that we should end minority quota systems in America is ludicrous! Although minorities are doing better than we were decades ago, we still have millions of people who are struggling! Millions of minorities are poor, uneducated, homeless, jobless, etc.

Do I blame that all on the white man? Absolutely not! We have many minorities who are causing their own problems. 

But until the playing field is leveled, there's no way that this country can afford to wipe out affirmative action! We may need to reform affirmative action so it includes income-based guidelines (thereby helping people of all races), but we can't end this system.

Minorities still need a hand up when it comes to college scholarships, employment opportunities and economic independence. Can you imagine how many minority kids will be denied the opportunity to receive a quality college education if quotas are outlawed?  

America will turn the clock back at least 50 years if it ever eliminates affirmative action!

What are your thoughts on affirmative action? Should America disband minority quotas? Can minorities succeed without affirmative action? Or should we keep the affirmative action program alive?

Letter from AZ Black Pages Publisher Urges Us to Support Our Community

This publisher's letter from Desmond Peartree of the Arizona Black Pages reminds us all about our duty to support our community!

A lot of us talk about how we need or plan to support our community!

But you know what they say .. talk is cheap!

I hope all of you who read this letter are moved to enrich our community in your own way - if you are not doing it already!

African Americans Are Spread Out All Over Maricopa County - Just Accept It!

If you've visited Websites such as City-Data.com, wikipedia.org or if you've taken the opportunity to read the The State of Black Arizona Report created by the Greater Phoenix Urban League and Arizona State University, you'll learn that the black population in Maricopa County ranges between 3 percent to 4 percent and that the total population in Maricopa County is approximately 3.7 million people.

Based on those figures, we can estimate that we have almost 150,000 African Americans in the cities and towns (such as Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale, Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Goodyear, Surprise, Maricopa, etc.) inside Maricopa County.

As one of the largest counties in the United States (population and size), it becomes a little easier to understand how the black community here can be so fractured. We have a lot of space here and few people! We live all over this county!

So for all of those people who are complaining about how the Valley of the Sun doesn't have any BLACK neighborhoods or lacks BLACK culture, I ask you now, is it a little easier to understand why?

I'm one of the rare African American natives in the Phoenix area. Most of our population consists of people who move here from other areas. And I've noticed that many black people move here for a few years, realize they don't like it here because of the small black population and the perceived lack of black culture, and then they move out! Do I blame them? I don't really know, but you must realize that this makes it extremely difficult for the black community to establish any kind of stability and strength.

I have to admit that I get a little annoyed when people complain about the small African American population here and the fact that we haven't established a "BLACK" neighborhood. What is this, the 1960s?

In order to set up a black neighborhood - in South Phoenix for instance - we'd have to ask all African Americans who live in Scottsdale, Tolleson, Peoria, Surprise, Queen Creek, Mesa, Tempe and other communities to sell their homes and set up shop on the south side. I live in South Phoenix, but if I worked in north Scottsdale, Surprise or Buckeye, I'd be mad as hell about making that looong commute every morning just to satisfy a few people who want a "BLACK" neighborhood!

Black people in Maricopa County should have the freedom to live where and how they want to live. If you are an African American in Maricopa County, you have the opportunity to explore many different cultures and forms of entertainment. How do we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s dream by restricting ourselves to ONE neighborhood, ONE group of people and ONE way of life? In order to make America a better, more racially tolerant place, we must have a presence in ALL cities and towns, not only in Maricopa County, but across the nation!

Black people, let's please quit the bloodclot cryin' about having CULTURE SHOCK when you move to Phoenix.

Of course, I still want African Americans in Maricopa County to be unified. When we see each other on the streets, in corporate offices and other places, I want us to acknowledge each other and make some type of emotional connection! And we must consistently host events that allow us to celebrate our history, our talents and our future.

However, I think that we need to accept the fact that the Maricopa County's culture will never be like Detroit's, Atlanta's, Chicago's or Charlotte's! Black people will never be the majority in Maricopa County. Instead, we must EMBRACE the fact that Maricopa County is a direct reflection of America - A MELTING POT!

And in the long run, we will understand that we and our future generations will be better off for the diversity, opportunities and experiences here! Let's start to look at the glass as half-full, not half-empty!

PhxSoul.com Readers: How do you feel about this blog? If you agree or disagree with my above statements, I invite you to share your Thoughts and Comments! I look forward to your feedback!