PR Pro Pam's News & Musings

Education Needs New PR

2011-06-21T10:17:00.009-04:00

There's a new movie about to come out this summer,entitled: "Bad Teacher". It's a comedy starring Cameron Diaz, along with the multi-talented Justin Timberlake. I love a comedy,in fact, it is my favorite genre of movies. It's just the timing that I don't like. Republicans have swept many state legislatures--such is the case in North Carolina, where the Republicans now dominate the state legislature for the first time in a century. A one cent sales tax was allowed to expire to the demise of educators and other state workers. With the mean-spirited mentality of the North Carolina Republicans, I'm positive that someone will use the movie "Bad Teacher" to further emphasize their attacks on teachers. To be certain, there are bad teachers, just as there are bad lawyers, doctors and folks who serve in every other profession.

Think about this: name a profession where people EXPECT you to spend your own money and not be reimbursed for it. There are several teachers who will brag about how much money that they have spent for their classrooms, and then complain about it all at the same time! STOP IT ALREADY! We teach people how to treat us,and teachers have done it to themselves with their martyrdom. For as long as I can remember educators have been complaining about how little they are paid. It appears to be an annual rite-of-passage to complain about teaching conditions, disrespectful and unparented students, and lack of adequate pay for the high expectations of their constituents.

After playing the martyr role for so long, it becomes very difficult to change the public's opinion on how teachers should be treated. The bottomline is, is that the entire education profession needs new PR. Educators have got to get real with themselves, and take responsibility for their own demise. There is an old saying, "you have what you say". So if you constantly speak of lack, poverty--that is what you will see in your life. That saying is the precursor of the current Law of Attraction. So, educators begin to speak wealth and positivity over your situation, but more importantly, begin BELIEVING and ACTING and PROJECTING what it is that you want and deserve. There is no magical bullet to solve state budget woes, but I tell you, that the initial change has to begin with YOU, your attitude about what it is that you stand for, what you will tolerate and accept. Stop using your hard-earned dollars without reimbursement--simply stop. Let your school administrators actually SEE and FEEL the difference of your actions. In time, your change will come.

To the NEA and all other Teacher's Unions, please feel free to contact me for PR assistance. For my talents, abilities and successes, I do thank all of my teachers from my hometown of Detroit!

Talkin' 'Bout A Revolution (Tracy Chapman)

2011-02-24T08:12:00.000-05:00

Are You Ready for Revolutionary Change?

2011-02-23T11:46:00.006-05:00

Whether it's Egypt, Libya, Yemen, or the teachers and public workers of Wisconsin and Indiana, the great theme for 2011 is: Revolutionary Change

Young people are tired of the "old way" of doing things, and have made up in their minds that FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) must go! What have you made up in your mind that must go in your life? Time to realize what FEAR really is, and take action on those items in your life that require revoluntionary change. Yes, I'm speaking to myself as well. :-)

Talkin' Bout A Revolution lyrics, By Tracey Chapman
Don't you know you're talking about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper
Don't you know they're talking about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper

While they're standing in the welfare lines
Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Wasting time in unemployment lines
Sitting around waiting for a promotion

Don't you know you're talking about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper

Poor people are gonna rise up
And get their share
Poor people are gonna rise up
And take what's theirs

Don't you know you better run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run
Oh I said you better run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run

Finally the tables are starting to turn
Talking about a revolution
Finally the tables are starting to turn
Talking about a revolution oh no
Talking about a revolution oh no

While they're standing in the welfare lines
Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Wasting time in unemployment lines
Sitting around waiting for a promotion

Don't you know you're talking about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper

And finally the tables are starting to turn
Talking about a revolution
Finally the tables are starting to turn
Talking about a revolution oh no
Talking about a revolution oh no
Talking about a revolution oh no

Prayer for A New Year, by Holly Gerth

2011-01-02T16:05:00.002-05:00

Prayer for a New Year
Lord,
There are many uncertainties in our world but what matters most will never change. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

We believe You are with us, for us, and surrounding us with Your love. So do not fear, for I am with you... I will strengthen you and help you. Isaiah 41:10

No matter what happens, You will guide us and fulfill Your purposes for us. He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

Even in hard times we can be confident that we will have victory through you. In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37

We trust you will take care of us and bless us in more ways than we can imagine.
God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

We give each moment and every day to You. Most of all, we give ourselves too.
Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 5:10
Amen.

--by Holley Gerth

Black Women and Body Image

2010-03-15T17:03:00.007-04:00

Or perhaps I should have just titled this post as "Women and Body Image". Nawwww, I'll keep "Black" in front of women. It's the age old discussion, and fodder for many jokes. Black women and their size. Big butts didn't come into vogue until Jennifer Lopez was admired for hers. Black women are stereotypically built with large backsides. Now, buttock enhancements are all the rage. Full lips were the first wave of popular enhancements that stereotypically are associated with the Black race.

But now with the multiple Academy Award nominated(and winning) movie "Precious", the leading role of that movie required that a very large young black woman be cast as its star. Lee Daniels said so, in fact, when interviewed on EXTRA! he said (exaggerating) that "the role was for some 450 lb black woman--and we had no idea where we would find her!" I gasped when I heard him say that, and to Gabby Sidibe's credit, never have I ever seen a sistah--black or white, carry herself with such confidence and poise. She's amazing! With that said, does Howard Stern's discussion carry any weight? Pardon the pun.

Well, I totally disagree with him and his side-kick Robin Quivers that "she's not a part of Hollywood". Gabby Sidibe most certainly is, and has the nominations to prove it! The girl was AMAZING on the screen, and has real acting chops. Now, do I earnestly believe that yes, given her size Hollywood will stereotype her into certain roles. They stereotype Sandra Bullock, Jennifer Anniston and many others. For sure they will do the same for Gabby. No doubt she will be cast as the bully, the misunderstood girl,---all roles that require her to live in the ghetto and not speak the King's English as she does naturally.

What I hope is that she will take ALL of that positive energy and love and decide to make a positive health change for HER and not for Hollywood. What a statement that would make for her fans, and young and older women alike who admire her.

You go Gabby! Show 'em whatcha workin' with girl! The world's your oyster.

Photo credit: Jason Merritt/Getty Images North America

Let this be a Lesson

2010-03-15T14:28:00.008-04:00

Yea, right Ms. Hunter,I'm so sure that you're appalled by the photos of you in the large white button shirt provocatively posed on a bed, that you cried for 2 days--per respected journalist Barbara Walters. The fact that you yourself are a photographer and videographer, makes me scratch my head when you claim that you weren't aware of how certain photos of you would appear in the GQ Magazine. It is after all, a gentleman's magazine, and skin is frequently shown--so what's the deal with the pretense? What I do know is this: just when I thought the proverbial shoe had dropped with the shenanigans of the Young's, here you come with the GQ Magazine skin flicks. I think that there is no common decency anymore. I wonder often how the Edwards' children are handling all of this salacious information. I wonder how the stress of the most intimate details of a life that you've built with someone over 30 years has affected Elizabeth Edwards' health?

I guess we live now in an era where no one cares about anyone else. No one feels any responsibilities for their actions. "If it doesn't impact me directly, I don't care!" I believe that's the new mantra of today. What I know for sure is, is that we reap what we sow. Therefore if we sow, confusion, bad karma, lies and deceit, we get it back in spades. For the moment, all of the publicity might be a heady experience, and may pay a view bills, but over time...well, let just say I'd hate to be around when payback comes. Sometimes it doesn't happen directly to the person who inflicts the drama/trauma, it may fall upon your children and some generations thereafter. I don't mean to get preachy, but there is nothing new under the sun, and unfortunately this saga will repeat itself again due to the nature of man.

There are so many lessons to glean from this situation. The many trite sayings passed down through the ages come to mind: "The grass isn't greener on the other side", "Hell hath no fury, like a woman scorned", "You believed her when she told you she couldn't conceive!?", "You got played-big time!" It appears that ego got in the way, and completely robbed John Edwards of any common sense. His integrity is shot, and his reputation in ruins. So sad, for a man with so much promise. Let us ALL learn from this American family tragedy.

Photo credit: GQ Magazine

Frenemies

2010-03-12T16:16:00.008-05:00

"Frenemies"
You remember the old saying: "with a friend like that, who needs an enemy?" I'm sure it's because I reside in the Triangle area of NC, where "former right-hand man" of former senator John Edwards lives, I cannot escape the constant media reports of Rielle Hunter's private tapes and Andrew Young's testimony. Maybe it's just me, but I'm sick and tired of hearing about the whole tawdry mess. Yes, I get it: John Edwards lied, and committed adultery, all while running for the highest office of the land. I even understand Young's reasoning for making certain that he had certain items as proof of the affair--within reason. BUT, at some point, the tape recordings, the showing of the sex tape(s)and so on, becomes over-the-top. And the explanation of being "afraid of John Edwards' powerful friends" becomes a tired excuse. Hunter sued Andrew Young and his wife in civil court to make certain that she obtained ALL photos and videotapes. The judge threatened to hold both Young and his wife in contempt of court--and they barely escaped a prison cell. But both received a stern warning from the judge about the discrepancies in their testimonies, and were warned that IF it became known that they had lied to the court, the judge would exercise his duty to sentence them to jail. What I do know is, is that my grandmother's warning about a "bosom friend" has never been clearer. Be ever so careful who you give the title of "friend" to, not everyone deserves the honor.

Making Sense out of Nonsense

2009-09-06T11:02:00.006-04:00

I can barely contain my disgust over the ridiculous argument that the President of the United States of America should not speak to school age children about the importance of education, and doing their best. What is wrong with us? Since when EVER in American history, would any red-blooded American deny the Commander-in-Chief the opportunity to address American children? I hate bringing up the race card, but sometimes you just have to call it like it is. When I look at some of those persons interviewed, you can tell by their facial expressions and body language that they have a different agenda. Just as the President was labeled a "socialist", during the campaign, and now a "Nazi" by those who don't want healthcare reform. Both words, and now the "Hitler-like" graphics are the not so subliminal suggestion reminding people to hate and to distrust the "black" President of the United States.

How sad America. I knew that the glorious moment shared by millions worldwide in Grant Park on November 4th would not last forever. I am not that naive. What I could not have imagined is the stupidity of Americans refusing to have a Harvard Law School graduate President an opportunity to talk about the importance of education to our children! Particularly when American students are losing ground academically in core subjects to other nations. Specifically, when black boys in America are failing to graduate from high school, yet alone get past the 9th grade. What's worse is that so many of these people identify themselves as Christians. I'm trying to figure out, what part of "love thy neighbor as thyself", didn't they understand? What about the Golden Rule: "do unto others, as you would have them do unto you"? I guess they skipped Sunday school when that lesson was being taught too.

Perhaps the question really should be, What would Jesus do? (WWJD) What would He say if He were to come among us now, and observe this ridiculous behavior?

Photo credit from: www.karamaureen.com

A Part of My Childhood is Gone...Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T14:10:00.010-04:00

Where do I begin? I first learned of Michael Jackson's cardiac arrest on Twitter, from "my favorite Robin", Robin Caldwell, publicist extraordinaire and principal of The J Standard (@thejstandard). There would be no second-guessing, because I know of Robin's integrity. More tweets came, I had the television tuned to CNN then to MSNBC, but Twitter broke the news first, long before it was confirmed on traditional media. When I realized that Michael had really passed, I was stunned. But it took some hours for the enormity of "the event" to fully sink in.

I have always told my daughters (all 3 of them) of my first concert I ever attended. The Jackson 5 concert at the now defunct Olympia Stadium on Grand River Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. I was 10 years old, and boy was I ever excited! My world revolved around the Jackson 5. I spent my allowance money on Right On! magazines, so that I could post their photos and posters on my bedroom walls. I memorized all of Michael's biography--I can still visually remember the Detroit Free Press article that touted how the Jackson kids only got a $1.00 allowance, which made me really be able to identify with them! Those were the days.....so simple,precious and innocent.

The day of the concert, I can recall my putting out my outfit the night before. My favorite pants--hot pink crush-velvet! LOL I can remember that they had this little gold link belt embellished on the waist. I paired my favorite pants with a purple knit sweater that had a v-neck style. I was gonna be sharp! LOL I attended the Jackson 5 concert with Kevin and Karen Boston. These two also attended St. John's Lutheran School with me. Kevin was a reluctant concert goer, as he was Karen's big brother. He said that he would be checkin' out all of the cute girls! Ha! Karen and I told him he didn't have a chance, 'cause all the girls were there for the Jackson's! Needless to say he wasn't happy with us, but our mom's made him go to look after us. LOL

When the concert began, there was a deafening roar of squealing adolescent girls- yours truly included. We were sitting in some balcony seats, facing the back of the stage, yet as I recall we seemed so close. When the Jackson 5 began singing my jam, "I Wanna Be Where You Are", I lost it. I leaned over the metal banister yelling: "Michael! Michael!" I swear he must've heard me above all other screams, as he reached up to me, as I was reaching down to him over that banister! "Gotta, gotta be where you are...OOOOOOOOOHHHHHH!" he sang reaching up to me. I was in heaven! Michael Jackson and I made a real connection--at least it was real to me! And then I felt these hands around my waist pulling me back off of the banister....and this voice yelling in my ear: "Have you lost your mind!? Girl you could fall down on that stage!" That was Kevin being his bossy self! Humph! Ask me if I cared what he said, I KNOW I made a connection with Michael, and that's all that mattered.

To further our glorious experience of that day, Karen and I convinced Kevin that we just HAD to go around to the back of Olympia Stadium to see the Jackson 5 off. He relented reluctantly. You see, we had done research on everything related to the Jackson's, and we knew that if we waited for awhile after the concert, we would get a chance to see the limo that would come to pick them up and whisk them away. Our research proved correct! And even better, there weren't a ton of people who had done the extra homework. There was a relatively small group of us waiting for them to leave. When they departed the stadium, my screams started all over again! I was sooo excited and happy! They waved at us....and I think Michael blew some kisses. Whatever, I had had my moment. I had made my connection with my dream guy, Michael Jackson!

Michael's sudden death has been such a surreal experience for me. I feel as though a big piece of my childhood is gone now. Such memories I have. All of the endless dreams of love and life with Michael Jackson as a young pubescent girl. "The Got to Be There" album is one of my all time favorites, because I LOVED the photo of him on the cover. I thought he was the cutest boy ever! I would stare at it endlessly, making me fodder for jokes among my family members.

But now Michael is gone--but only in the physical realm. My children love him, and I just discovered that we own all of his videos--or close to it. It's simply amazing to see several generations love his music and relate to the stories he told in his awesome music videos. Literally he touched the world. It hurts to hear how lonely he was, and how he changed his appearance over the years, tells me that he wasn't as accepting and loving of HIMSELF, as he was of others. There's a lesson in his pain. Hope we can learn it.

Rest in peace Michael. The world celebrates your life and music.

It's Time--NOW

2009-05-12T14:33:00.002-04:00

As usual all of my words are in my head, and they take awhile to be typed onto the computer or to find their way onto a pad of paper. Yet when they do come out, they are a series of my musings that range from politics (a favorite subject--can't you tell? :) to social causes, music & entertainment, and my beloved hometown-DETROIT. Whatever I muse about, I thank you for reading and adding your comments. I am open to guest bloggers. My dear friend, Ken McGee has been a guest here, and will continue to add his special touch on this blog from time to time, in between rescuing puppies being discarded, as the result of the economy. Check him out at: www.eyesshuttightmcgee.com

What do you have to say? Have your "musings" published here. Hit me up @ prpropam1@yahoo.com

Now is the time to get it right. That's a phrase that my pastor, Rev. Philip R. Cousin, Jr. often tells the congregation at St. Joseph's AME Church. When you consider the economic and psychological whirlwind our country has been through these past few months, it does make you wonder where we're headed as a nation. It all seems so surreal. In July 2008 I say it was around the 3rd week of the month, gas began to shoot up rapidly. Americans were in shock paying $3.50 for each gallon of gas, and then it went completely out of the stratosphere at over $4.00 a gallon! Food prices shot up,and the American consumer was in need of resuscitation. The US economy which had become solely based upon what Americans consumed, rather than what they produce, was in serious trouble.

But how did it come to this? How did we, the United States of America home of automobile manufacturing, which created the middle class, become a service oriented economy? Some blame NAFTA, pushed and passed under the Clinton administration, I couldn't for the life of me understand what was good about the North American Free Trade Agreement. Others blame unions like the UAW and AFL-CIO for making increasing demands in the face of global competition, while American laborers are producing inferior products. No doubt there's plenty of blame to go around. It makes no sense that given what America went through during the '70's gas shortages and rationing, that our Big 3 automakers built gas-guzzling land yachts that get virtually no miles per gallon of gas.

And yet, since I first began this post (I had started it some months ago, and am just now revisiting it), I have been floored by the mere mention of Chrysler and now GM filing for bankruptcy protection. You cannot possibly understand unless you grew up in the Motor City or in the Rust Belt, how it feels to even think of one, yet alone two of the Big 3 crumbling. It truly is a surreal moment to read a bankruptcy headline. I still have fresh in my memory working for a top 20 ad agency--Ross Roy Communications in West Bloomfield Hills, seeing the MAN, my personal hero in business, the legendary Lee Iaccoca ride the glass elevator from CEO Glenn Fortinberry's office to our lobby Christmas party. Back in those days, I'd be the lone African American female, maybe 1 or 2 other black males were present--1 VP and the other was an art director present at the festivities.

They obviously don't make business titans like Lee Iaccoca anymore. Straight-talkin', no nonsense speakin', proud Italian son of immigrants-engineering graduate of Lehigh University......out of the steel-making town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The last I knew of Mr. Iacocca making contributions to industry was back in the '90's when he was marketing and manufacturing electric bikes. He was well ahead of the curve regarding using green energy and technology. So, one only can wonder out loud why is it that the auto titans that came behind him didn't have the same vision? The know-how and technological advances have been there, my alma mater, The University of Michigan engineering school has long worked hand-in-hand with the auto industry. So was it a sweetheart deal with the oil companies that kept innovation at bay? If not, what was it? Because certainly nothing else makes any sense. Money, and lots of it, had to be what was at stake for America's auto industry to sell it's soul. At least I hope so, because sheer laziness and stupidity are solutions that are just too hard for me to swallow!

Now is the time to proverbially pull ourselves up out of the "miry clay" that we're in, and start anew. This time, let's return to our roots, and let good old fashioned American innovation rule, and ignore the greed seekers and "get a quick buck" schemes. Let's produce safe, eco-friendly vehicles that have the style and panache that American automakers are known for. There's no doubt that we're down--but we're not out! I'm still betting on my hometown of Detroit. Hey, and I would LOVE to be a part of the PR effort to help her strut her stuff again! She's got a few knicks and bruises, but she'll polish up good, and will shine again. The time is NOW-to start making it happen!

My Motor City

2009-05-03T11:54:00.007-04:00

My first car was a Dodge Dart. Her name was "CT", after my beloved high school Cass Tech in Detroit, Michigan. I named her that because her body was dark green, and her hard top was white. I grew accustomed to having 4-doors after owning CT, and never again purchased a 2-door car after her. I remember the lessons my dad and uncle tried to teach me about how important it was to keep the oil changed, and the importance of good tires. Growing up in the Motor City, cars were our "mini gods". Despite the harsh Michigan winters--or perhaps in spite of, most folks worked very hard at keeping their cars clean and running well.

Virtually everyone in my family and my friends families worked in the auto industry. The pay was great! If you were lucky enough to get a job at "the plant" (it didn't matter which one, Ford, GM or Chrysler) during the summer months, you were certain to fatten up your bank account and have plenty to purchase school supplies, maybe buy your first car, or to enjoy some fun going over to Windsor, Ontario, the beach or attending the numerous big name concerts that would come to Detroit.

Those were the good 'ole days. I can see them in my mind's eye so clearly. I can feel the pride and excitement that came with every International Auto Show that was presented in Cobo Hall. Cars, cars and more cars, they dominated the lives of Detroiters---and of Michiganders as a whole. They still do. The problems that my hometown is experiencing--that of its dependence upon one industry has been something most forward thinking people have been concerned about for years. Then, during the late '80's I think it was, up until the early to mid-90's, gambling became the "answer" to Detroit's diversification of its economy solution. How I hated the idea then, as I do now, with all of vice that comes with the gambling mindset. Soon billboards were posted up all over town, not advertising the latest new vehicle or product, but for a service. A service to circumvent the growing gambling problems now plaguing Detroiters on the verge of losing it all due to bad debts-- and this was BEFORE the financial meltdown. SIGH. What makes it worse, is that a contingency of religious "leaders" lead the clarion call to make Detroit's new economy based upon gambling a reality.

So what is it with my beloved Motor City? Do we lack vision? Leadership? Given the past couple of decades of decision making, I'd say too much of both. There is one glimmer of hope.....with my late dad's former employer: Ford Motor Company. While Bill Ford will readily admit that no one saw the horrific economic meltdown that we're currently in, they did, as their old slogan states, "had a better idea". Ford thought strategically, and aligned themselves with board members who could raise the capital necessary to assist them in weathering an economic slide that they felt the rumblings of, but could not have imagined its severity. They remain the only domestic automobile manufacturer who has not taken out a loan from the US Treasury to stay afloat. For that reason alone, Ford Motor Company has risen above the fray, and has scored a tremendous amount of PR points for just remaining independent. If Ford can produce their new energy efficient, green-friendly vehicles with few, if any manufacturing glitches for the consumer, they'll score a homerun for sure. I'm the eternal optimist--I believe they can do it!

I am hopeful (there's that word again) that the Motor City will redefine itself. While none of us has a crystal ball and can forsee the future, we can believe, encourage and demand, that however the Big 3 emerge from this crisis, they will do so smarter, not resting on the laurels of their 100 year pedigrees, and boasting on what they "used to do". They will be mindful that while America is a mighty nation, we are but a part of the global economy, and others have taken our technological know-how, improved it, and have taken it to new heights. Detroiters and Michiganders in general are "can do" people. We'll all have to dig deep to work our way out of this crisis. "YES WE CAN!"

100 days have come and gone

2009-05-01T22:10:00.018-04:00

I confess. I was one of the Obama-obssessed. My dear friend Grace and I--also an ardent follower of politics would talk every night, multiple times per night about the latest news brief, leak, and gossip tidbit, concerning now President Obama's campaign. She and I on election day here in North Carolina, stood in the pouring rain at a major intersection in town with posters, shouting "Turn North Carolina Blue!" It was our running joke, that we would one day tell Michelle Obama, that her husband was the ONLY man we ever stood on the corner working for! With our sense of off-color humor aside, we were, and still are President Barack Obama die-hards. We no longer obssess over every news conference or breaking news event. It has taken me literally, almost these entire 100 days to stop silently crying every time I saw images of the President and his family in the media. Now, I just smile. I have always been patriotic, but the moment the election was sealed, I removed my campaign poster on my front lawn, and replaced it with not one but TWO American flags in my mailbox flower garden.

Now, fast forward to the grading of the President for his first 100 days. He has struck the right chord with the American people by literally and figuratively, hitting the ground running. With two wars, an economic crisis unseen since the days of the Great Depression, he has behaved as a leader, with calm resolve. He makes Americans and those abroad believe that we will get out of this financial recession. Simply put, President Barack Obama exudes to the world HOPE.

Proud to Be An American

2008-11-15T10:48:00.004-05:00

I haven't posted on my blog in a couple of months, as this has been a very busy, interesting and perplexing time. It has taken me a week to absorb the fact that President-elect Obama is really going to be the 44th President of the United States of America. I cannot fully express my feelings about this amazing event, only to say that I am so proud of my country and what we accomplished on November 4,2008. God bless the United States of America!

WAKE UP !

2008-09-09T20:49:00.010-04:00

Now that both political conventions are over. I must hand to Senator McCain, he threw us a surprise in selecting a little known governor, from the state of Alaska to spice up the fall presidential campaign. Make no doubt about it, the selection of Governor Palin was and is a gimmick---a ploy to woo women voters. Sarah Palin is NO Hillary Clinton--please don't get it twisted. To look into her policies and idealogy, reminds me of W all over again--in a skirt! My concern is that black religious leaders don't focus on a singular issue, or become focused on what their individual churches may gain by a president purporting Christian values and faith-based initiatives.

Radio show host Michael Baisden brought up this issue of singular focus points making black people vote contrary to their convictions based upon ONE ISSUE! Black Americans, indeed ALL Americans need to be smarter than that! Wake up people, Palin and her husband have associations with a secessionist movement in Alaska; she has a reputation for firing those who disagree with her; as mayor of Wasilla she wanted to ban several books, and attempted to get rid of the librarian who stood up to her--and there's more. The McCain camp did not properly vet her, because his selection is a gimmick, ala Karl Rove style and making.

Don't get it twisted folks! We can ill afford another 4 years of the same fiscal policies of the Bush administration! I read that our nation is 53 trillion dollars in debt! That is criminal, as our grandchildren's grandchildren will still be paying on this enormous debt! WAKE UP! VOTE!

The Dream 45 Years Later

2008-08-29T18:49:00.004-04:00

I don't think that there are any words that can begin to describe the great sense of pride I felt on Thursday, August 28, 2008. To witness a black man...a person of color obtain the nomination of the Democratic Party for the Office of President of the United States, was and is beyond my wildest dreams.

And to think, that all of this occurred on the 45th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have A Dream" speech. There are no words....just tears and pride.

A Nation of Voyeurs

2008-08-14T22:05:00.003-04:00

Do you remember when you scraped your knee as a kid, and your mom told you not to pick at the scab? The scab, though ugly, indicated that the scar was healing. When it was completely healed it would fall off naturally by itself, without any pain associated with the original wound. Being a kid, you usually picked at the scab anyway, and then complained as a result of the pain you endured because of your actions.

I’m reminded of painful wounds everytime I hear the recounting of John Edwards’ extramarital affair.

A re-enactment of Edwards going into the men’s bathroom, with the National Enquirer reporter trying to get in.

PICK.

A panel of journalist’s waiting in judgement to discuss if Edwards told the whole truth or just 90% of the truth.

PICK.

Rush Limbaugh dares to draw a comparison between Elizabeth Edwards and Rielle Hunter as part of his commentary.

PICK. PICK. Blood is drawn this time.

Obviously, we cannot get enough of the salicious and intimate details concerning the misdeeds of a promising former senator and presidential candidate. I find it interesting, that our country holds dear (in theory) the most puritanical thoughts on sex and family values, yet reality shows filled with sexual conquests and foul language abound. Television shows aimed at the family hour leave little to the imagination. We have become a nation of voyeurs, preening, poking, examining, probing into the lives of the rich and famous. It has become a national sport, the stakes are just as high, and obtaining the winning photo, “friends” who will give up the most intimate details of your life, gain the “prize” in cash.

I am certain that after Mrs. Edwards delivered her statement to the press, about her knowledge of her husband’s affair, and her desire not to have the matter played out on the national stage, she thought that the picking of her scab would be over. Unfortunately, it was not. Can we allow her the opportunity to heal her wounds? For all of those campaign workers who feel betrayed by the former senator’s actions, I say get a grip! His wife’s feelings supercede any of yours, and as John and Elizabeth Edwards are private citizens now, they are not your concern.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!

2008-07-14T16:06:00.010-04:00

Remember the saying, "teamwork makes the dream work?" Well, no truer words have been spoken. When devising your communications plan to build your brand, you must work in partnership with the professionals you hire to get the job done. It's important that you take their advice and listen to what is being told to you. It truly is a team effort. I've had to re-evaluate my business style and become more authoritative and assertive when it comes to giving client's advice. Afterall, if the client is coming to you for advice, they should respect you enough to listen and to heed the advice given. 'Nuff said!

The PR Brilliance of Barack Obama

2008-06-16T22:02:00.008-04:00

Observe any successful person, and you will notice that they are a highly skilled , and effective communicator. Presumptive Democratic nominee, Barack Obama, is a master communicator. Let's review how his communication skills translate into excellent PR for him and his campaign.

CALM
No matter the subject matter or controversey, Obama maintains a calm and controlled tone and demeanor.Paraphrasing an old saying: Obama never let's them see him sweat!

POSITIVE
Notice that he speaks in an affirmative manner at all times. Obama is positively assurred that he will be the next President of the United States. He speaks positively about his opponents acknowledging their strengths, while clearly distinguishing what sets them apart. During the primaries, there were plenty of times when he could've thrown Hillary Clinton and others under the bus, but chose not to. He took the high road, thereby setting the tone and tenor of the campaign.

PREPARATION
As an educator, I have often taught students, young and old alike the 5 P's: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance! Whenever Obama stands before the mike, he is solidly prepared--rarely do you see him looking over notes. When he sat before my favorite journalist, the late Tim Russert, on "Meet the Press", he held his own, because he was extremely well-prepared. He had to be, as no one sits before Tim Russert and gets a free ride. The questions are tough; but fair. So before you get before the media, make sure that you have been coached for the expected questions, and for the unexpected one's. Don't be afraid not to know all of the answers, if you are unsure, say so, but make sure that you follow-up later with your answer. Humility is a good thing.

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH COMPETENT ADVISORS
Obama looks and sounds great not by his talents and smarts alone. He surrounds himself with brillant advisors and strategists who are not only politically savvy, but who are masters of public imagery. Obviously he not only listens to what they have to say, but he takes their advice and instruction. No one becomes a media darling on their own, manages a campaign, or raises millions of dollars without a competent team. Likewise, if you are an artist, or an entrepreneur, you will need the help and assistance of others to achieve your desired goals.These are but a few examples of Barack Obama's PR savvy. Compare them to yours.It doesn't matter that you own a small business, or are rolling in the millions, the basic fundamentals apply to all of us seeking to "make it happen"!

copyright 2008 Pamela R.Purifoy P R Communications Group, LLC

Hold Fast to Dreams...by B. Kenneth McGee

2008-05-26T21:16:00.000-04:00

This posting is by my friend, and political consultant, Ken McGee. Ken has successfully managed well-over 100 political campaigns, and was responsible for the election of the first Black mayor of a major US city--Carl Stokes.

We knew it was coming if he was nominated. The slurs, the innuendoes, the wink-wink nod-nod of subtle racism, the outright attacks of not so subtle racism. There would be whispers about religion and questions about his background. There would be slime and dirt, Swift Boaters and stupid jerks. What the smear-experts didn't know, they would make up. What they didn't make up, they would borrow from others who did. Never based on fact nor substance, the attacks would be relentless and the nastiness would make decent people cringe. We knew where it would be coming from. We knew the political party that would do it. We thought we knew which rock they'd crawl out from under and which cable news network they would use. We knew it all…thought we.

Oh….how wrong we were!

The enemy was within….. clothed in familiar suits (and pant suits) we had seen before. We might not have liked them all that well….but they were one of us…the good guys…."The first Black President"…..and the champions of the minorities and the downtrodden. We are all brothers and sisters, said we, and we knew who the enemy was.

Oh…..how wrong we were.

They thought that the Black vote in America was theirs for the taking and the poor white folks could be scared into submission as the Republicans had done for years. Victory was in sight….and the road to another Co-Presidency was a sure thing. Then something happened along the way. A young brilliant African-American upstart challenged the inevitable and opposed the "same-old." Ordinary people got excited, ordinary people started to believe again, and ordinary people started to have hope. Ordinary people, rich and poor, Black & white, Hispanic, and Native American started to think that they themselves could actually make a difference in their own lives.

The Challenger had to be stopped before it was too late. The attacks were quickly choreographed. The "first Black President," a master of race & politics in America, began the subtle stuff implying a Jesse Jackson rerun. Yet...maybe it was too late for subtle implication and the all-out attacks, the "kitchen sink" and the down and dirty began. "The bigger the lie…the easier it is to believe." It isn't the Democratic party they're for, it isn't the people who matter, it isn't even about saving The United States of America. It is all about them...the power hungry.

We watched as thousands of people, more white than black, cheered a man of color. We saw the hope in their eyes and saw their dreams of a better America…one no longer divided by race or ideology.

What kind of person or persons would squash such dreams---destroy such hope? What is the most troubling is….are they succeeding?

So here we are with our hopes and dreams and those of the generations before us… and the ones to follow us. It's up to us. It's our job and responsibility to keep those hopes and dreams alive while there's still time.

Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams
For when dreams go
Life is a barren field
Frozen with snow.

Dreams---Langston Hughes

A Case for Manners and Discipline

2008-05-24T11:38:00.000-04:00

I had planned to write about one of my favorite subjects today--the presidential campaign, but I called a friend who began to lament about a commencement ceremony at North Carolina A & T University. She hadn't been to a college graduation in a number of years, and was appalled at what she witnessed. I couldn't imagine what she was about to explain, because the ceremony started out well. The students marched in, in order as planned, but she noticed that several of the young women graduating did not wear the customary black shoes as required. Rather, some chose to wear neon green, bright red patent leather, and silver stilettos. Some of the young men did not wear neckties as required either, but t-shirts that made their cap and gown look less elegant and formal than the occasion demanded.

Dr. Bill Cosby was the commencement speaker. I understand that the students behaved themselves fairly well during his speech. After Dr. Cosby received his honorary degree and left to catch a plane, the conferring of degrees began. My friend says that the students had their bluetooths on and were chatting on cell phones! In fact, she had to reprimand her brother for chatting with her niece! She said that the students kept getting up out of their seats during the ceremony---something unheard of when I was graduating. We were told that you go to the ladies or men's room prior to lining up, because there would be no movement other than going to receive your degree. Evidently, not only did the graduating young people get up and out of their seats during the ceremony, but they LEFT the auditorium once they had marched across the stage! She said that of some 400 graduates orginally seated, there remained only approximately 100 on the floor!

Now, she became so disgusted that she decided to leave before the new graduates did their exit march. "Why should I stay, when so many others didn't stay for their own classmates?", was her reasoning. SIGH. This all goes back to my theories of our country's declining moral and ethical compass. Plainly put, our society lacks manners and class! I don't understand why the Provost and other faculty members didn't have or exert more control over the students. For those people with inappropriate dress at the ceremony, it should have been made crystal clear, to include the signing of contracts, that IF they did not comply with the dress code, they would not be allowed to march. As for the cell phones--that goes without saying that in no way should they have been allowed. PERIOD. These are our future leaders...our company CEO's, our government officials and more, yet they lack the discipline to stay in their seats throughout a formal ceremonial program. :-(

I cannot help but to think of the cloud that lurks over my hometown, due to the "devil may care" attitude of Detroit's mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick. He was proudly proclaimed the "hip hop" mayor of Detroit, due to his youth. While I admire his tenacity, and awesome ability at making business deals for the City of Detroit, I cannot help but to think out loud, how his generation has this unusual sense of entitlement. It appears that too many of them in this generation--I cannot recall if they are Gen X or Y, feel that a quick apology and a cursory praise of God, will "do the trick", and that we must no longer worry about their actions--but forgive them and move on.

Unfortunately, it is my generation and those before me that are responsible for their LACK of responsibility and lack of a moral compass and no discipline. Perhaps in our efforts to make things better for Gen X and Y, we have made them weaker.

Let us resolve to instill manners, ethics and responsibility to both the young and the old alike! Let's model the behavior we wish to see in others.

Borrowing a Phrase & Getting Inspired

2008-05-24T11:30:00.003-04:00

Borrowing a Phrase & Getting Inspired
March 14, 2008 at 2:21 am · Filed under Anointed Messenger, Dreams, Inspiration, entrepreneurship and tagged: audacity of hope, Dreams, entrepreneurship, faith, hope, multi-tasking, vision
As an entrepreneur, you burn the candle at both ends, and sometimes in the middle too! Lately, my energy has been low, but when I attempt to figure out why, by the time I list all that I’ve had to do by noon today, I came to an understanding that my multi-tasking is just plain exhausting. I wonder if it’s all worth it. That’s when my Anointed Messenger sends me just the right scripture and message that instantly lifts my spirit. I, too, have the “audacity of hope” to believe that I can successfully build a business with integrity,hard work, vision, persistence and faith. This is more than a hope or a dream, this is my vision for my future.
To get your own daily dose of inspiration, go to: www.anointedmessages.com
Comments

Geraldine Ferraro

2008-05-24T11:29:00.005-04:00

Geraldine Ferraro
March 13, 2008 at 2:34 am · Filed under Senator Barack Obama, history, politics, popular culture and tagged: 1988, April 15, Barrack Obama, democratic party, Geraldine Ferraro, Hillary Clinton, Jesse Jackson, President Clinton
So, Geraldine, back on April 15, 1988 you said that Jesse Jackson only received attention in the presidential race was because he is black. Now 20 years later, you ignorantly imply that somehow Senator Barrack Obama got his votes by some bizarre affirmative action move, as IF Senator Obama didn’t earn every vote he has received. I am extremely disappointed with you Ms. Ferraro! I recall when you were Mondale’s running mate…and as a young woman I was so proud. Your comments are totally out of line, and perhaps you are so out of touch, that you are unaware of what the current statistics are for black men in America. Perhaps we should let you become a black male in your home state of New York for one day, and see how much you enjoy the experience. Shame on you Geraldine Ferraro! You of all people should know how it feels to be ridiculed and not be taken seriously. I used to think more favorably of Hillary Clinton, now my view of her and President Clinton have been altered by this race-infused campaign, of which, the CLINTON’S have injected the race card negatively into the campaign. I am very concerned how this constant bickering, and nasty tactics will affect the Democratic party. As with ALL things……time will tell.

We Haven't Seen this Since Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2008-05-24T11:28:00.004-04:00

We Haven’t Seen this Since Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr
March 13, 2008 at 2:31 am · Filed under Senator Barack Obama, history, politics, popular culture and tagged: campaign for change, civil rights movement, Hillary Clinton, Jr., Michael Baisden Show, Obama, president, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev. Martin Luther King, United States of America
It’s been 40 years since the voice of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. was silenced. I heard Rev. Al Sharpton on the nationally syndicated Michael Baisden radio show, speak to the significance of this time in our history in America. No one ever thought that an African American man, with a highly ethnic name would have ever raised the amount of money he has raised, NOR would’ve ever won races in Iowa, Maine, North Dakota or Idaho. My personal opinion is that Barack Obama has been anointed for this moment in time to run for the highest office in the land. Like Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., he really didn’t seek this opportunity, rather his light shone so brightly when he spoke at the Democratic convention in 2004, everyone began asking: “Who is this man?” There was this buzz in the air about this man who lit up the Convention….this man who spoke about “The Audacity of Hope”. I am sure that Hillary Clinton and her supporters are frustrated by an election that they feel was promised to them. But here’s the lesson: whatever door God opens; no man can close it. Likewise, whatever door God closes; no man can open.
The doors are open wide for Senator Barack Obama, and none of us will ever be the same again. America is a better place for this experience of his historic run for President of the United States of America.

Will History Repeat Itself?

2008-05-24T11:25:00.000-04:00

Will History Repeat Itself?
February 9, 2008 at 6:32 pm · Filed under Uncategorized and tagged: author, B.Kenneth McGee, black mayor, Carl Stokes, Clinton, Eyes Shut Tight, Obama, political consultant, political strategist, Presidential campaign
B. KENNETH MCGEE, AUTHOR OF EYES SHUT TIGHT, COMPARES HISTORIC VICTORY OF CARL B. STOKES IN CLEVELAND, OHIO IN 1967 TO CAMPAIGN OF BARACK OBAMA IN 2007; PREDICTS OBAMA VICTORY IN 2008
By B. Kenneth McGee
Louisburg, NC (BlackNews.com) - Forty years ago in 1967 Carl B. Stokes was elected the first black Mayor of a major American City. I was the operations manager of that campaign along with my partner, Geraldine Williams. In 1965, Stokes had run and almost won in a city that was 70% white and 30% black. In 1965 he had come so close to winning that there was a recount. His victory in 67 was hailed as one the greatest moments in the civil rights struggle and also a triumph of the brotherhood of man. Partially, yes–partially, no. In the 1965 campaign there were practically no white votes for Stokes. In 67 there was only 15%. Not exactly a triumph for the brotherhood of man. In fact, in 1965 I was his “white” aide and traveling companion to show not only the white community, but also just as importantly the black community that he had white support. Many in the black community said “it’s not time”–he’s not ready–will he win and bring disgrace to the community–will he be killed by the racists” Do these same sentiments sound familiar in 2007?
Also, in 1965 he was up against a potent political machine, one that regularly “bought off” members of the black community. There were city councilman and black pastors all of whom had ties to the white establishment. Sound familiar in 2007?
In both 1965 and 1967 it was the black community that turned out in large numbers and then voted 97% for Stokes. He still lost in 1965 because the councilman and pastors disaffected some of the black vote but it was so close that in 1967 and with the blessing of the establishment he won–but by a very small margin. Again, it was the black turnout and overwhelming percentage of vote in his favor that carried the day.
How does the Barack Obama campaign of 2007 differ from those two campaigns of long ago? He is running against the establishment (the Clinton machine) and there are black “leaders” that are staying with the establishment. Polls are showing that many in the black community are saying the same things that they said in 1965–it’s not time–he’s not ready–he will be killed if he is elected. Are these sentiments carried down through time going to defeat him in 2007?
Here is the reason that the campaigns are not alike. The white support for Obama is huge compared to the white support for Stokes forty years ago. Who would have dreamed then that a black man running for the President of the United States could garner such white support, attract such crowds, and be so close to winning. When I see campaign crowds, I see a sea of white faces cheering him and I see a much different time than that of 1965 & 1967.
Following is an example from the 1965 campaign. It shows how extraordinary the idea of a black mayor (there are now hundreds) was to the black community at that time.
The last weekend before the election we had a parade through the streets of the East Side of Cleveland. It wasn’t much of a parade, as parades go, a handful of cars with balloons and banners on the them, horns honking, people waving, and Carl and is wife sitting on the back of the last car. I was in the front seat. As the caravan pulled past the corner, there was a small boy about ten or eleven standing in the middle of a group of children. The cars had been going past honking with signs “Stokes for Mayor” on the sides. As the car with Stokes sitting on the back came to the corner the boy stood straight up, his eyes widened at the sight of Carl and he cried out, “HE’S COLORED.” He started to clap his hands and jump up and down. “HE’S COLORED, HE’S COLORED,” he cried out to no one in particular. “HE’S COLORED, HE’S COLORED” and he started to skip down the street after the car. I looked back as the cars picked up speed and left the little boy in the distance. He was still running and clapping his hands. I turned around to Carl and caught a very different expression on his face, part smile and part a distant look in his eyes. “I think it’s all been worthwhile,” I said. A quick but soft-spoken reply, “Yes, I think you’re right.” That’s how it was back then. A little boy thought, “this couldn’t be–his parents and grandparents thought–could this possibly be? And a city and a nation wondered if history was in the making.
I sometimes wonder where that little boy is now, forty years later. What about his children and grandchildren? Does he remember how he felt that day? Does he remember the wonderment of seeing a black man siting on the top of a convertible, his skipping down the street in that wonderment of a black man striving for the impossible? How do his children and grandchildren feel today? Will they participate in today’s “impossible dream”?
Now, forty years later I see the crowds, more white than black, cheering a man of color. Now, forty years later, I see polls showing that this man of color could likely be the next President of the United States. I see now, forty years later, that dreams do come true–and a little boy of so long ago could still clap, skip down the street and cry out–”He’s colored-He’s colored–he’s colored.”
Will the black community support Obama as we Irish Catholics did for John Kennedy in 1960, as the Mormons will do for Mitt Romney this year, as every ethnic group has done for their history making candidates since the country began? It is the black vote that can insure victory for Barack Obama. This is the year. This is the time. This is history in the making.
The face of The United States of America is about to change.

For interviews contact: Pam Purifoy (919) 451-2620 Cre8tivePR@aol.com or prpropam1@yahoo.com

Onward and Upward in 2008!

2008-05-24T11:21:00.000-04:00

Onward and Upward in 2008!
January 22, 2008 at 4:56 am · Filed under Uncategorized and tagged: marketing, news, public relations, world events
Hello, and welcome to my very first post of 2008! This is the official blogsite for P R Communications Group, LLC. As the title suggests, as the president & ceo of the firm, I look forward to sharing with you news and my many musings of community, social and world events–some serious, some not so serious. But, all things that have captured my attention, and hopefully yours too. I encourage commentary from like-minded individuals who are interested in a variety of subjects. Also, since I do operate a public relations & marketing firm, I will provide tips and news on that subject matter as well.
Here’s to great things in 2008!
PR Pro Pam