REAL CHRISTMAS FACTS

12/22/12 - Penthouse of Resorts World Casino for the Irie Jam Radio Christmas Ball

Well tis the season to be jolly!  You went to school, there was a special assembly and you learned all these songs like frosty the snowman, rudolph the red nose reindeer, Santa Clause is coming to town, etc.  Is Christmas really a time for Christians to celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ?

Many people continue and are comfortable with tradition.  The traditions they grew up with most adults carry with them and pass it on from generation to generation.  Lots of people do lots of customs that they are unaware of its origins and have no desire to even question themselves into why it is that they carry on in such traditions, customs and sayings.  (I had to put that all in there)

For example, someone asks you "how are you feeling?" and you reply "much better knock on wood."  Then you look for a piece of wood to knock on.  Did the wood help you get better?  No, so why knock on it?  BUT there are people in this world that look at objects as sources of healing and wood being one of them.

Here's another one, why when it's someone's birthday that you take candles, light them, MAKE a wish THEN blow out the candle?  If you WANT something the "wish" should be a prayer, and perhaps you should light the candle, after the prayer. (that's just me)

Back to traditions & customs - as a business woman I look at every holiday on the calendar as a ways of generating more revenue for my business.  There is a holiday just about every month.  Holidays generate more profits because the consumer is out shopping for whatever the occasion may be taking advantage of the sales and keeping the economy going.  Holidays being that most working people have the day off, can be used as an opportunity to get together with family, friends and loved ones. SO TO ME, THAT IS THE BEST PART OF ANY HOLIDAY.

HERE ARE SOME REAL CHRISTMAS FACTS:

1. JESUS CHRIST WAS NOT BORN ON DECEMBER 25TH, but the ancient Babylonian King Nimrod was, Mithra the god of the sun, Osiris & a host of other sun gods were all born on December 25th.  Back in ancient times the folks had all kinds of festivals for all kinds of reasons to drink & get besides themselves.  December 25th was one of those high festival days.  Biblical evidence indicates a much warmer season for Christ's birth.

2.  Christmas became a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870.  The United States reinvented Christmas and pulled from different customs from around the world in making Christmas what it is today.

3.  Pope Julius I is the person responsible for choosing December 25th as the day to celebrate Jesus Christ's Birth.

There are a lot more facts that I can share with you, but just about every holiday on the calendar has its pagan origins.

Now It's nice to know that society has decided to acknowledge such an important gift as Jesus, that ultimate sacrifice, his purpose while on Earth, his purpose as High Priest.  It's nice that people can reflect on the Nativity, the Cross and his Return.  

Celebrating Christmas is an individual decision.  I am not catholic so  Christ & Mass - you wouldn't see me at a church I don't do "mass."  The origin behind wreaths & evergreens and trees all stem from pagan celebrations.  That's what they did back then.  What you do now should matter to you.  You should at least want to know why you do the things that you do, or where did the whole idea stem from, don't you think?

Either way during this holi - day season - spread goodwill towards men and do good deeds for the less fortunate, help someone in need of it.  Now I see no harm in spreading good cheer.  Do something to bring your home and community together.  There's no harm there.

May God Bless you - during this time of year and all throughout 2013!

Till my next entry...

THE PRESSURE TO "PERFORM"

"Where relationships should go" Simply Said

***This blog entry is not be read by children and is intended for a mature audience & viewers****  Simply Said

Do you suffer from mental pressure?  Do you allow whatever is happening on the job and other outside influences and situations disturb your happy moments with your loved one?  If so when you're ready to deal with that problem, read on to help give you clarity on that type of pressure.

First things first, you have to know your partner.  Your will to please comes naturally, if you're not a selfish person; you will love completely with out holding back.  Those who can love with everything and mentally focus on pleasing their partner will have a more rewarding love life.

If your disposition is angry and hateful, your love making actually transmits that same message.  The saying "angry sex is the best sex" - well that's truly a matter of opinion.  Angry sex is abusive sex because you intend to be with your loved one yet you are angry?  Your body is transmitting mixed messages and if you are on the receiving end you are getting angry love which brings about confusion in a relationship.  Both of you can't make simple decisions & fly off the handle for the silliest things and it just opens up a Pandora's box of mixed emotions.  You are what you create in your relationship.  

The key is to know what your partner likes.  Not to love one sided, and before going there look at each other, understand what your partner is saying to you without even speaking.  Be on the same level; that way when you begin the process it's smooth and your position transitions are that more exciting.  In the end a moment of gratification & completion veils over both of you.

Mental capacity while "performing" is an integral part of your performance.  For men too much excitement can equal a serious flop and a two or three minute endurance level.  For women depending on where your head is that day, your partner might not tell you because he just wanted it and needed to release but if you loved him lazily then what do you expect to get out of him?  Yet both of you wonder in your own way what happen to us, while in fact what is happening to your relationship is a result of both of your actions.

Love should be a satisfying experience for both parties.  Aim to please every time and love with your all.  When you do the "pressure to perform"  will not be there.  What pressure?  Just pleasure!  Love & Love Responsibly!

Till my next entry...

TOP 3 REASONS WHY I RESPECT JAY Z & TYRA BANKS

FELLOW DECEMBER BABY JAY Z 12/4

All righty then - here are my top 3 reasons why I respect Jay Z and Tyra Banks:

1.  They are both born in December :)

2.  They are both very intelligent people.  For example, while at peak points in their careers they looked at other avenues to move their money and do other things, branch out into other territories.  So yeah, they have great business sense.

3.  They genuinely like helping out the next person, in some shape or form.

***Bonus - did I say they were born in December? (a jokey joke)

There you have it my top 3 reasons - do you have a top 3?  Inbox me or leave your comment below - till my next entry...  & Happy birthday to Jay Z, Tyra Banks & everyone else born on December 4th - best wishes from all of us at Simply Said Media!

THE CELEBRATION, MICHAEL JACKSON & THE ARTS

"The Celebration" @ Magnet, Elmont, NY 12/1/12

Hey everyone right now I'm listening to Michael Jackson sing "I just can't stop loving you"  the movie This is It is playing on VH1 and I'm at the radio station making this entry.  While President Obama is in office I am going to start my MJ National Holiday initiative (grassroots @ first get as many signatures as possible & speak to all of those representatives that we elected in office) to institute "World Performing Arts Day" in memory of the greatest entertainer that ever lived.  With proper funding this holiday can bring back music programs in schools who have already lost it, as well as keep music programs in schools who are in danger of loosing music programs.

If the political analysts feel away about giving another Black man a holiday on the calendar - "World Performing Arts Day" will work for me, after all Michael Jackson was a worldwide entertainer.  I will tell you more about this initiative during another entry.  If you are ready to sign letters in support of this just shoot me an email at iriepeggy@gmail.com or plaibhen@gmail.com

Back to the "Celebration" I did say I would post pictures as I received them.  My cousin Sam was the photographer for the night and he emailed me shots from the celebration.  To see more pics you would have to go to my Facebook page to find the album.  My hair, make-up & stylist was provided by the company "Flawless Beauty."  To have Flawless Beauty handle your event, feel free to contact me or friend the company on Facebook.

Since the movie "This is It" is airing right now I can't help myself to go back on the topic of MJ & a holiday recognizing the importance of music & the performing arts.  Music is an integral form of expression; believe it or not but music helps shape and form your actions, ways of thinking and behavior.  The message is in the music, its beats and all its tempos.  I did not have to be a music major or study music in anyway to know this.  It's just the truth.

An individual should get their roses and awards or recognition while still alive.  If they happen to pass before you acknowledge them, find ways to keep that person in your memory.  You could honor their memory with memorial services and the like but by designating a day to honor all extraordinary artists sounds good to me.  What do you think?  Feel free to inbox me or leave a comment below.

Till my next entry...

12/3 MADE JUST FOR ME!

Birthday Cake for the "Celebration" @ Magnet in Elmont, NY

Well thirty plus years ago I was conceived.  God said "she will arrive a few minutes after 8am on December 3rd."  He said "she will be the last of her children, she will be different, she will be multi-talented, she will be strong, she will face many adversities but will triumph over them all, she trusts in me so I will guide her through."

I heard the stories that as a newborn when I came home from Kings County Hospital I was very red in complexion looked like an Indian with a whole lot of hair.  In my toddler years I was chubby, then that all changed once I became more acquainted with the elements of the outdoors and started kindergarten.  I developed asthma, back in those days  Environmentalist really didn't go hard on the emissions of the yellow school bus.  Still living in the city today,  I am grateful for the changes that have been made in regards to our environment and unlawful emissions.  Every bit helps in reducing our carbon footprint; ozone layer madness & just cleaner air in general.

Now back to those early years.  Growing up with Asthma, I've had some really close calls gave me a new appreciation for life and how precious it is.  I also had some horrible accidents where the doctor would say the same thing "If you hadn't brought her here sooner she would have died, she lost so much blood."  Hey guys I'm still standing - it's all good!

I look at birthdays as another opportunity for self-reflection & pampering.  A birthday is special for you & your parents for they brought you into this world. Birthdays are another opportunity to celebrate the gift of life.  I can breathe, my heart is still pumping blood to every part of my body and it's my day where  I should choose to be happier, healthier & smarter.  We should always look for areas of improvement in our lives and work on them.

I will be getting dressed going to work and made plans to have dinner at my favorite restaurant with my son and close loved ones, a more private way to celebrate my special day.

Then it's back on my grind because I have a whole lot of events to promote, plan and bring into fruition.  Not to mention my back log of recordings to do.  

Yes Simply Said Media is a unique firm that specializes in Broadcast Production, Administration, Voice over production & Programming - I'm open for business email me at plaibhen@gmail.com or iriepeggy@gmail.com

My party - you should have been there - it was great - I had a blast!  Pics to follow during the next few entries okay :)  

THINGS TO LISTEN 2:  I'm now co-hosting on Red Hot Radio every Wednesday from 7pm-9pm with Bobby Channel 1!  It's Culture Jam on Red Hot Radio in Brooklyn visit www.redhotradio1.net  or if you are in the Brooklyn area tune into 102.3FM

My next entry will be soon, Black History Month is coming up I like to start early with Black History facts & spotlights, so be on the look out for them.

BUT 2DAY - I'M BASKING IN THE GLOW OF LOVE FOR LIFE & ALL IT'S BLESSINGS!  12/3 MADE JUST FOR ME!

!PEACE!

SOULMATE RAP UP @ THE LUXURIOUS RESORTS WORLD CASINO

Saturday, November 24th 2K12 for "Soulmate" @ the Resorts World Casino in Jamaica, Queens.

Well what can I tell you about "Soulmate"  this party was planned for the lovers.  You could have come with out your boo.  You could have came with your boo, either way this party was designed for you to dance the night away at the very top floor of the Luxurious World Casino  located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd.  in Jamaica, Queens.

 

My duty on Saturday was to handle Will Call, if you won on Irie Jam Radio or were on the guest list, you saw me.  Watching all the patrons come in was beyond interesting.  You guys really came out in droves and in every age group.

 

The fashions - wow, the fashions, I really should have taken the picture of the gentlemen who came with his wife.  You can tell that he was up there in age with his "Sunday's Best" his suit said "Easter white" and his hat was a "NY" baseball cap.  Some of the most outstanding alfits and colors appeared to be metallic silver.  Not because that's what I wore, but because so many women had flashing silver that lit up the room.  Everyone dressed to impress not you - but themselves! 

 

It was indeed an evening of sophistication, elegance & class.  Your music maestros, well DJ Roy started the party out with beautiful R&B instrumentals, his set was enjoyable for all the early arrivers, DJ Roy entertained the crowd until a little after midnight where he gave the controls to his partner in crime Dubbmaster Chris.  During Dubbmaster's set I heard music that I haven't heard in years, not to mention a few that I would have to ask "who is that?"

 

I saw DJ's that I haven't seen in such a longtime.  It was great to see Steelie Bashment that was an extra added surprise and his set was a good one of 90's 80's  & today.  Super Claude, Senior Daley all had their sets of soul tunes and gave their ecclectic mixes - no one really wanted to leave when the lights came up a little after 3am.  To segway into our next event, I can remember the night ending with songs from Mad Cobra, being that on November 30th he will be live in concert at Mingles in the Bronx.

 

To win tickets for that event you're gonna have to tune into Irie Jam Radio WVIP 93.5FM every morning @ 10AM with DJ Roy and in the evenings with Dubbmaster Chris.  To find your nearest ticket outlet call 718.723.IRIE (4743).  You can always listen to Irie Jam Radio 24/7 on your phone dial 832.225.5365 & there is an Irie Jam Radio App as well.

 

The next big event is my birthday party on Saturday, December 1st at Magnet Sports & Entertainment Lounge in Elmont, NY.  My Proud Sponsors:  Irie Jam Radio & www.ob1limo.com  contact them today - they're competitive and so cool!  Call 917.560.1741 ask for Orville, tell them I sent you & get "hooked up"

 

Till my next entry guys :)

 

OUR HOLIDAY WEEKEND

IRIE JAM RADIO - WVIP 93.5FM PROVIDING THE BEST IN CARIBBEAN PROGRAMMING & ENTERTAINMENT!

Hey - did you enjoy gobble gobble day!  I sure did it was well spent with family.  Now the weekend is far from over, what are your plans?  Feel free to comment below if you like.  I will be at the Resort World Casino - way up top at the Penthouse.  Personally, I'm not a gambler & way up top there are no slot machines you would have to go down a floor or two if you feel to try your luck and spend some money.

Now let's talk about the ambiance of the Resort's Penthouse - you want elegance? check, ample space to be comfortable with your boo? check, super sheek & huge restrooms with smiling attendants to assist you if needed?  Check.  The best music anyone could ever ask for? CHECK CHECK CHECK CHECK & MIC CHECK AGAIN!  You will be entertained musically by DJ Roy, Dubbmaster Chris, Senoir Daley & Super Claude.  Saturday - November 24th is guaranteed to be a night to remember.  There's no telling what celebrities will be in attendance for "Soulmate"

It's great to be able to have a positive attitude & treat yourself to a soulful evening of holiday celebration.  You get dressed, get cute and allow the best to follow.  We have so much to be thankful for, take the opportunity to reach out to friends and family get together and have fun.  I promise you, you'll thank me for the suggestion.  Find a Soulmate, be a Soulmate, bring your Soulmate!

Then you can plan to have a blast with me on Saturday, Dec. 1st as I celebrate my birthday at Magnet Sports & Entertainment Lounge - 241-05 Linden Blvd.  in Elmont, Long Island.  You can get on my guest list by clicking "yes" on my facebook page, emailing me at iriepeggy@gmail.com or plaibhen@gmail.com

Also - are we still overjoyed with the electoral count?  I sure am!  Simply Said Media - Irie Jam Media are in total celebratory mode!!! It's the holidays - give and you will surely receive.  See you tomorrow night!

(pics & post Soulmate report will be provided soon :)


  

EVENTS!! CELEBRATIONS!! BDAY BASHMENTS & THE HOLIDAYS!!!

So sorry everyone - it has been a very long time since I've made an entry.  We won't get into the malfunctioning lap top.  Thank goodness for studios & stations and equipment on the late night tip.  So number 1.  whatever your political association is PLEASE GO AND VOTE!  I know for some of us it will be difficult with so much devastation around us as a result of Hurricane Sandy.  All the more reason for us to rally together as a community and help our neighbors who are displaced and need to get to polling locations.  I pray that the communities hit the hardest have all the information readily available to them & that volunteers are their to assist them in their time of need.  So that questions can be answered and assistance can be given to them if needed.  I don't want to relive another "hanging chads" election debacle.

My birthday is coming up!!! & you are invited to celebrate with me - join me at Magnet Sports & Entertainment Center - 241-05 Linden Blvd., Elmont, NY 11003.  It's a night time thing - I will make my grand entrance @ about mid-night -so please come early for the early juggling.  The music will be provided by Dubb Master Chris of WVIP 93.5FM - Irie Jam Radio, DJ Genius of X-Media Sound & other surprise celebrity DJ's passing through.  It all goes down on Saturday, December 1, 2K12.  I hope to see you there!  To get on my guestlist, you have a host of choices:

1.  Become a member on my blog to get the latest updates

2.  Follow me on twitter under Simply Said Media

3.  Friend request me on facebook under Simply Said or by my name Peggy Laibhen

4.  Email me at plaibhen@gmail.com or iriepeggy@gmail.com 

Events that are coming up by Simply Said Media:  My Networking Business Brunch!  Venue to be announced.  Due to Hurricane Sandy I am allowing our communities to recover from the aftermath - so the date and venue will be forthcoming.  In the meantime get your business cards, brochures & a list of your company's weak areas.  You will be introduced to Simply Said Media and it's affiliates, but more importantly it's a gathering of the business minds.  Be introduced to innovative ways in moving forward during these economic times.  Two keynote speakers will be there to talk to you briefly.  Look forward to the exchange of cards & smiles.

Lovefest 2012 - the Ultimate Classic R&B & Soul mixtape CD featuring Simply Said Poetry by Slim Perfection is available for you to download visit: http://www.sendspace.com/file/me00ke  if you run into any difficulties downloading - feel free to contact me.   

Lovefest 2013 is slated to be released during Valentine's Holiday weekend - look out for the release party & the best mix of music produced by Dubb Master Chris & myself - not to mention the sweetest & steamiest poetry around.

As I finish up this entry, I'm at the headquarters of Irie Jam Radio 93.5FM we're watching the Presidential Election we're having our own Election Party!  Tomorrow the electoral college would be 1. putting back our President to serve 4 more years or electing romping Romney to turn back the clock of steady advancement our President has already put in place.

Thank you for all your support - look out for the fashion shows, events & great advice coming your way via this blog.  Talk to ya soon :) 

MAINTAINING HAPPINESS

"Finding simple pleasures like the beauty in nature can bring about happiness" Simply Said

Achieving overall wellness is a conscious and subconscious effort an individual would desire.  Today my example is obtaining happiness.  Happiness is a state of mind that is desired by all.  It can be achieved but it also must be maintained.  In order to maintain happiness one must know what are the things that make them happy.  What brings about that smile on your face, what brings you joy, what keeps you elated.

To achieve happiness self examination is necessary.  Your happiness is found within you.  Your level of optimism and your perspective on life is what determines how high or low your happiness cup will be.

To maintain a happiness balance you would need to identify with the things, persons or places that make you happy then incorporate those elements on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.  Whatever works for you and what life's schedule permits.  In order to maintain happiness those things, persons or places should be added to your "happiness" cup.

Before I go into the practical applications of maintaining happiness let me quickly touch the spiritual aspects of maintaining happiness.  Without that acknowledgment, you would not be able to maintain or achieve it.  1.  All things good come from God.  2.  God is love and 3.  Love in all its forms brings about happiness.  Psalm 118 vs 8 states "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man."  Consult with the author of Love, all the blessings that come from the acknowledgment that you are not just flesh & blood but spirit, yes your essence, makes the achievement and maintenance of happiness that much easier.

We have the body and we have our senses.  Let's take the sense of smell.  For example, a foul odor or a pleasant odor can easily alter your mood.  Pleasant aromas can bring about a tranquil state, childhood memories or a flashback of real good times.  Aroma therapy works wonders, it's those simple pleasures that we can part take in that aids in the process of our well being.

Relationships, although I can write about that topic forever.  I'll just give you the words of one of my favorite R&B artists Charlie Wilson, "Being in Love is good for your health."  Hobbies or activities that involve giving without the expectation of receiving brings about a sense of fulfillment.  Watching someone's eyes grow with smiles from ear to ear because of a kind gesture - that's a happy moment!  Charitable activities are always rewarding, the recipient is blessed and so are you.

Create your own "Happiness List" and seriously work on it.  For each item reached check it off.  your Happiness List should have realistic projected dates and stick to it!  Some items on your list might be specific goals in education or in the work place or domestic matters, other items might just be broadening your iTunes library, a dream vacation or a new business venture.  It can also be just listening to your favorite song or making your favorite dish.  Whatever the items maintain your Happy List.

In order to do any of these things you need to look into your life.  Review the negatives and the positives.  See what needs to be eliminated, what needs work and take one day at a time. Happiness is a state of mind, encourage yourself and surround yourself in environments that bring about the best in you.  Laugh, Live & Love - Simply Said!

THEN & NOW - DANCEHALL VETERAN RED FOX

"Be true to yourself & you wont live a lie - bless up" Red Fox

Simply Said Media had the pleasure of interviewing "Jamaica Nice", you know Dancehall Veteran DJ Red Fox.  The interview went well below are the highlights and his artist profile.

Name: Gareth Shelton AKA Red Fox

Height: 5’7”

Complexion: Light skin with unique freckles

Born: August 13th 

Honors & Awards:

Honored with numerous local awards for various hit singles.  

Tamika Reggae Award recipient in 1994 & 1997 for DJ of the Year.

His accomplishments include:

Elecktra Records deal in 1993, during in era where Reggae music was crossing over.

The first reggae artist to bless the stage of the Jay Leno show with the Wailing Souls.

International Reggae Star Shaggy was one of his proteges.

Helped pioneer the fusion of Reggae & Hip Hop with his ground breaking hit with Brand Nubian bridging the gap between the two music genres.

Toured for 10 years with Maxi Priest.

Red Fox began recording November 17, 1987 with hits like "Come Boogie Down" and others he remembers performing at Biltmore Ballroom, Starlight, basements & clubs from 1986.  I will always remember Red Fox as a NY DJ because that is where I first met him and no one can forget his fiery, raspy strong voice.  He was considered a local NY artist with international status.  We talked a little bit about the strength in his voice and he stated that he discovered it when he was about 14 years of age.  He saw Chakademus doing his thing with a sound in Edgewater and in Portmore, he was amazed.  He was also a big fan of General Trees.  He recalls imitating them.  Then his school kept a BBQ and this would be Red Fox's first time picking up a mic he shocked the crowd and himself as far as what was flowing out.  That was THEN, what is going on with Red Fox NOW?

Well for starters he has new music out :) with Ranch Records, which is Shaggy's    record label.  The title of the single "Rocky Daddy Love" featuring Alja, "Your Love is Fire" featuring Alja, "So de ting go" which was recently released in Europe.  Red Fox is always recording.  He also gives back to his community at home in the states and back home in Jamaica.  He continues to look for new talent in Jamaica.  He educates them and prepares them for the industry.

I had to talk about his hair.  Red Fox is such a sweet person, very humble and I  asked since his hair is locked did he embrace the Rastafarian way of life.  "I don't consider Rasta a religion, I consider it a movement, I am that I am.  I believe we're all one people under God, regardless of our complexion.  Religion is good as far as disciplining a person, I love the Rastafari movement.  Rasta teaches me about healthy habits, it's a combination, I am a Rasta."    

We talked about where reggae music is today and his perspective.  Red Fox is an intellect that uses his knowledge of the industry to help the youths better themselves.  You don't hear much about this because unfortunately in the world of media sensationalism sells papers and boosts ratings.  He understands that what influences young people today will manifests itself through the music that is being produced he believes in the basics and the authenticity of reggae music.  Real vocals not auto tune, he understands what is trending but also understands that mastering the craft is necessary & education and opportunity would need to be available for the preservation and development of reggae music.

His message to his fans "I just want people to believe in themselves & trust God regardless whatever moment your going through just trust God cause it’s mind over matter.  Be true to yourself & you wont live a lie & bless up!"

I've known Red Fox since the early 90's we did a stage show together, (my sisters and I handled the fashion segment) back then he & Screechie Dan had the biggest hit for the summer "Pum Pum Shorts" till this day, if you play that song, I'm having a ball! What a combination.  He is so genuine, down to earth & just a blessed individual that contributed so much to the reggae industry and continues to do so.

You can keep in touch with Red Fox on Twitter @originalredfox and on facebook at Original Red Fox.  If you have an artist that you would like Simply Said Media to interview for our "Then & Now" series feel free to comment below or shoot me an email at plaibhen@gmail.com  and we can make it happen.  Till my next entry...

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S HISTORY SPOTLIGHT: BESSIE COLEMAN "QUEEN BESS - DAREDEVIL AVIATRIX"

 "I knew we had no aviators, neither men nor women, and I knew the Race needed to be represented along this most important line, so I thought it my duty to risk my life to learn aviation and to encourage flying among men and women of our Race."

Simply Said Media puts the International Women's History & Black History Spotlight on Bessie Coleman a.k.a. Queen Bess.  Bessie Coleman was born on January 26, 1892 in Atlanta, Texas to Susan and George Coleman.  Bessie spent much of her childhood working in the cotton fields.  When work was slow Bessie along with her siblings went to school.  Bessie was good with numbers so on the cotton plantation she was given a job as a bookkeeper.  She also did laundry to earn enough money to go to college.  Bessie first had dreams of becoming a teacher, she enrolled at Langston Industrial College, a school for African Americans.  After 1 year of attendance she had to leave because she didn't have enough money to further her education.  She moved to Chicago and took a course in manicuring, Bessie began working as a manicurist at the White Sox Barber Shop.

You maybe asking yourself how does one who dreamed of being a teacher, become a manicurist, but then gets inspired to become a pilot?  Well after World War I the talk around town was about these new flying machines & how important they were within the war.  Bessie had the desire to fly IN an airplane just as much to pilot one.  Here is a list of a few of her accomplishments:

1915: Trained as a manicurist in Chicago

1920:  She went to France to train as a pilot

1921:  She was awarded her pilot's license in France

1922:  She was awarded her international pilot's license

1922-26:  Bessie performed at many air shows and carnivals

1926:  Bessie forced the Orlando Chamber of Commerce to admit African Americans to their air show.

In the 1920's it was almost impossible for any woman, black or white to obtain employment as a pilot in a passenger airplane.  So Queen Bess became the "Daredevil Aviatrix" her first appearance was at an air show at Curtiss Field, near New York City, in 1922.  In 1926, while her mechanic was piloting her plane, it spun out of control - Bessie was not wearing a seat belt and was thrown from the plane at 2,000 feet.  She died on April 30, 1926 at the age of 34 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Bessie Coleman is a role model for women of all colors, especially African American Women.  She wanted to help other African Americans overcome racial discrimination and her example inspired many women to learn how to fly.  She is honored each year on Memorial Day by African American pilots who fly in formation over Lincoln Cemetery and drop flowers on her grave.  After her passing "Bessie Coleman Aero Clubs" were formed and in 1975 the Bessie Coleman Aviators was formed by black women pilots in Chicago.

We are proud of Bessie Coleman and what she achieved in her life, she dared to dream.  A dream is nothing but a distant reality.  You can achieve it amongst all odds and obstacles.  Bessie's determination is what really stands out.  The will to do, the will to be, the desire to make a difference and live out your life's deepest desires.  Bessie Coleman did that and so much more for African Americans in her time and is a reminder for us not to give up on our dreams in our time.  "Queen Bess"  the Queen of Aviation - Simply Said Media salutes you!  You can learn more about Bessie by visiting your local library or just use google :)

PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE WOMEN THAT IMPACT YOUR LIFE

Mary Harley, in front of her home in Lillington, NC

My fellow readers the picture that you see is that of Mary Harley, a southern African American women who is now in her sweet 80's living by herself in a lovely home in Lillington, North Carolina.  I meant this lovely women at the tender age of 5.  My first acquaintance with her was at a private ceremony whereby I got 2 sets of God Parents.  My mother selected her Aunt & Uncle the Fevrier's & the Harley's to be my God Parents.  I remember being dressed in all white & my hair had a fresh professional press.  The priest was getting ready to pour I suppose holy water on me.  He lifted my veil, I had to bend some for this process to take place near this basin of sorts.  I am not catholic so pardon me for not giving you the appropriate names of items for such an important ceremony.  Well when I noticed that this priest was getting ready to pour water on my head, and we all know what happens to natural hair when water touches it.  I looked at my Mom sitting in the pews like "I know this man is not about to put water on my head, I just got my hair done!"  My Mom already knew what I was thinking and gave me the "Look"  the look that said "I dare you to even try to ruin this occasion"  the look that said "try me cause I'll just dip your head in the water for you."  Well with looks like that I knew I couldn't move and just go with the flow.

After the ceremony there was a light reception at my Godmother's right on Brooklyn Ave. & Clarendon Rd. & I got to meet my God brother, he too was dressed in all white.  Pictures were taken, I was showered with sweet gifts & I got to spend time with new people.

Over the years, and with my Mom's passing in 1983.  My God Parents tried their best to comfort me and to keep their doors open if need be.  My Godmother taught me how to smile even when situations appeared extremely bleak.  She taught me to be clean, treated me like her princess.  She always lent her shoulder & her ears whenever I needed her.  She till this day continues to give me advice, love & support.

My Godmother, Mary Harley is now the soul survivor.  All of my Godparents have passed except for her.  She relocated back to her hometown to take care of her Mom, when her mother was diagnosed with cancer.  Although she left Brooklyn, when I can I try & visit her.  Leaving the hussle & bussle of NY to the quiet suburban town of Lillington instills a much needed peace & tranquil vacation.  Now as an adult, I try & spoil her and put a smile on her face when I see her.

Last month was International Women's History Month.  The type of contributions that women in society have made at home, on the job & in their communities are so numerous.  Untold stories throughout history and present.  

My Godmother's love helped me to be a stronger person while facing adversity.  I'm sure there are women or just one woman that has impacted your life in such a way that our mere words don't suffice in the type of gratitude we have for them.  I have no problem highlighting them, in March, April, May - it doesn't matter the month.  Families are the backbone of any community.  Our broken families need mending, our women need healing and strength to continue to wear the many hats that we wear & still manage to look good.

I pay tribute to Mary Harley today.  In May you get to see a shot of the woman who bore 7 children for my Dad, I being the last.  Just about each month the U.S. has something going on, some kind of recognition; some sort of holiday.

As Easter weekend approaches, make those calls, contact those women that play a special role in your life.  Let them know you care.  Mary Harley - Thank you for caring for me :)

MY PASSION FOR FASHION SUNDAY 4/22/12 & SUNDAY 4/29/12

It's that time of year where runway divas are on the front lines with today's hottest styles.  My experience on the runway goes as far back as 1987 or so.  What I enjoyed most really was putting on a designer's clothes & selling every stitch of it on the runway.  By the early 90's I was helping the family business, I recruited, trained, coordinated & produced fashion shows.  Now it's time for "Irie Fashion Rave" on Sunday, April 22nd 2K12.  You have the opportunity to experience the best in fashion by designers who are caribbean or of caribbean descent.  We also plan to honor Reggae Soldiers, Heavy D & Joel Chin and Life Time Achievement Award Recipients, Pat McKay & Robert Livingston.  I have to say behind the scenes with the preparation for this event takes lots of hard work & long hours, but it's all worth it.  So get your tickets fast buy online at www.iriejamradio.com  you can always try & win your way in, just listen to Irie Jam Radio on WVIP 93.5FM.


Other projects for the month is "Rip the Runway" on Sunday, April 29th 2K12.  I will be your host & commentator for the evening & it's not your ordinary fashion show.  The designers are edgy & bold and the production - sweet! You can win a 40" Plasma TV so get your tickets now!!! Just go to Upper Deck Lounge to purchase your tickets for the show.  Save the dates - 4/22/12 & 4/29/12 get your fashion fix @ LQ in Manhattan & @ Upper Deck Lounge in Queens.

I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST NIGHT...

Holiday Photo Shoot @ Tes Barnett Studios in Queens

***This blog entry is not to be read by children and is intended for a mature audience & viewers.  Simply Said***

This entry is for all the Husbands & Wives, Kings & Queens, Emperors & Empresses, Ladies & Gents.  If you took off today, that's good because at least you have time to re-cooperate from all the festivities of last night.  Now if you're getting up & going to work, great you are a trooper and you can troop on with a great big smile on your face as you reminisce on all the fun you had.

Now If you did not plan how you were going to spend Luv Bug Day with that significant person and went on last minute, you either spent too much money trying to cut on time & bumping other folks reservations or you didn't spend enough & your night was kinda cheesy & she was slightly disappointed.  If she was able to see through all of your BS but still went along for the ride, it's ONLY because she loves you and really regards "for better or for worse, for richer or for poor."  If you are one of those THAT REALLY LOOK @ LUV BUG DAY AS A PAGAN HOLIDAY, BUN DAT! Then of course last night was just like any other night in your household.  So she expected nothing but the norm.

People who conceive in February are born in November - early December.  That would be me :) and others - so let's break it down.  If you didn't wear a jimmy hat & know yourself well enough - well then LADIES PLAN B ONLY WORKS WITHIN 72 HOURS OF UNPROTECTED SEX.  That being said, I won't begin to tell you how by taking PLAN B it can definitely knock you off your cycle, but you should expect that when you are swallowing high dosages of hormones & such.

LADIES - did he get it right this time?  Did you train him well enough that he finally caught on to how you like to spend Valentines? Were you surprised @ work with roses? Did you get them on the way home?  How many of you were proposed to last night?  (by the way Happy Anniversary to Elsie & Clive Ho Sang for over 10 years of wedded bliss)

I'm sorry for the emergency rooms that had an influx of patients due to erections that lasted longer than 4 hours due to Viagra and other performance enhancement drugs.  The local OB/GYN doctors will be happy for the increase of patients that they will have in a few days because of the different bacteria that will soon visit you as a result of all those special flavored liquids that probably shouldn't have been in certain places.  I don't know - you guys gotta be careful with all those things.  FYI - If you love with everything purely - everything just flows naturally.  I'm not saying don't spice up your love life - just be careful - women we are special creatures & sensitive so buyer beware when you buy certain products.  Quite personally in my opinion, I'd rather a MAN blow my hair back than - I have no idea what's on the market right now.

For the single ladies & gents I pray you did not go to bed angry or depressed.  I hope you did something sweet for yourself.  I hope you didn't drown yourself into something destructive because that will not solve the problem only mask it.  Use this time alone for self-discovery and cleanse your body anew so that you will be ready for the next relationship AT THE APPOINTED TIME.

If you are not ready to be a Dad or Mom again or for the first time I SURE HOPE YOU ENGAGED SAFELY.  Who wants the emotions of an unwanted pregnancy; and any dude that has sex with a girl raw is saying - "you know what it's aight you could be my next baby momma."  Even if he verbally doesn't say it, his actions say otherwise.  There were break ups last night, arguments last night, proposals gone bad last night; and there was lots of love last night and expressions of love in all its forms all night long.  I hope your Luv Bug Day was awesome and that you had a great day and that your special someone can repeat it.  Not just on February 14th but each time you two lay eyes on each other.  Love is what bonds this entire world.  Spreading it's energy is the best gift one can give to another.

If you want to know what I did last night - you'll have to read my next entry - and that's if I go there, or just ask me @ my party on Saturday 2/18/12 @ Upper Deck Lounge 234-04 Merrick Blvd.  It's my mix-tape CD release celebration - C U there!

Comments are welcomed, be sure to leave one!

TODAY'S BLACK HISTORY SPOTLIGHT: DANIEL HALE WILLIAMS

"We have the material, the brains, and the ambition in our men and women to accomplish the highest results in any line of work."  Daniel Hale Williams

Simply Said Media gives a 21 Gun Salute to Dr. Daniel Hale Williams for his outstanding contribution to society and the vision he had for himself and others.  Dr. Daniel Hale Williams was born January 18, 1856, in Hollidaysburg, PA to Daniel and Sarah Williams.  Daniel's ancestors had African American, Native American and European backgrounds.  He married Alice Johnson in 1898, she died in 1924.  Dr. Daniel Hale Williams attended school at Haire's Classical Academy in 1878 and Chicago Medical College in 1883. The following lists just a few of his accomplishments:

1883: He received his M.D. from Chicago Medical College

1889: He was appointed to the Illinois State Board of Health

1893: He performed the world's first successful heart operation

1894-98: He was appointed Surgeon-in-Chief of Freedmen's Hospital in Washington DC

1895: He helped form the inter-racial Medicochirurgical Society of Washington and also helped in organizing the National Medical Association and served as its first vice-president

1913: Founding member of the American College of Surgeons

What I love most about this remarkable Dr. is that in 1891 he opened up Provident Hospital, both black & white doctors were on staff and it also had a nurses' training school.  This was the FIRST inter-racial hospital in the United States.  At this hospital Black people were treated with the utmost care & dignity.

We are a great people, we've done great things.  What kind of mark do you want to leave?  For each day that you are given, you have another opportunity to enhance your life & others.  Be proud & celebrate this month & every day of the year!

Simply Said Media acknowledges Dr. Daniel Hale Williams & every other Black person in the field of Medicine.  KUDOS!!!  You can learn more about Dr. Daniel Hale Williams by visiting your local library or just use "google" :)

ALL BLACK EVERYTHING, THE OFFICIAL COLOR OF 2012

My Birthday Celebration 12/3/11 @ Magnet w/Neice & Sister beside me.  Photo Credit: Sam Cox

I am proud of my roots & culture and my parents taught me at a very young age who was born where, from what Islands and to embrace the diversity and languages in my family.  That being said, in the words of Jay Z "All Black Everything" and in the words of the CB4 Rapper "I'm Black y'all, cause I'm black Y'all, I'm black, da black, cause I'm black y'all" YES I'M A BLACK WOMAN and quite proud.  Black History Month is designated as February, but you can celebrate it in your own way every day.  You do without even knowing it, like when you take out your ironing board to get ready each day - that credit goes to a BLACK person. (look them up the names not coming to me right now)  When you jump in your ride and obey the traffic light - credit goes to a BLACK man (his last name is Morgan)  Yeah we have a deep heritage and WE contributed so much to society in the advancement of the U.S. and beyond.

I have filed lots of interesting Black History Facts that I could share with you throughout the 29 days of Black History Month.  From Engineers, to million dollar hair dressers, to peanut butter inventors to washboard scrubbers and more.  Even in the "Laibhen" family (that being my last name which is German meaning Life/love & also to work) I found registered patents for machinery used to help the process of grains flow more quickly when the Agricultural boom was big in the U.S. and the need for slaves in the West Indies to till the ground an integral part of economic growth for the land of the free & the home of the brave.

I deemed the color black the official color of 2012 because you can't go wrong with the color BLACK.  Black is classic, we all know you can wear it with anything.  Black is a dominant color, even within race relations you have Black in you then that would be the square to check.  I would have to say that over the years that government has tried to accommodate other races outside of Black, White & Latino on their paperwork.  There is always "other" and now "Pacific Islander" or "Asian Pacific"  Sometimes I crack up at the different classifications the Gov't wants you to adhere to.  What about the bollywood specials that come into this country their skin is just as dark as the pavement outside but would hold an argument with you that they are not black - OKAY, uh I guess you're white?

My mom taught me to love myself & respect others no matter what their race, creed, religion, or economic status. Those precepts made me a more well rounded person and I definitely wasn't raised with a closed mind.

I was born & raised in Brooklyn!!! Sak Pase, Wah Gwaan? Que hora es? & what's good? Yeah I'm from the hood, you never know what language will fly out my mouth. My cultural diversity is part of my make up.  Don't be ashamed of your heritage embrace it & walk upright!  Cause I'm BLACK Y'ALL!  (lol)