COAL MIND PUBLICATIONS, LLC'S WEEKLY BLOG

LET'S DO MORE FOR TRAYVON MARTIN!!!

2012-03-24T22:55:28Z

After the "Million Hoodie March" today, I got to thinking, "What more can we do?" We walked, chanted, yelled, and shouted "I am Trayvon!" countless times. But "What more can we do?" I found three things we ALL can do after some quick research. Please take the time and DO MORE than buy tea, skittles, and hoodies. I WILL!

It’s time for us to take action. Here are three easy things you can do to pressure those in power to arrest and prosecute Zimmerman.

1. Sign the Change.org petition started by Trayvon’s family. With 1.5 million people having signed, the more voices that sign this petition, the harder it is to ignore.

2. Pressure the state’s attorney responsible for the 18th district to do everything in their power to prosecute Zimmerman to the full extent of the law. You must call between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday – Friday. Get to an operator and ask to speak to the receptionist for Norm Wolfinger.

Here’s a potential script: “Hello, my name is _________________. I am calling regarding the Trayvon Martin case. I just wanted to register my voice in support of Trayvon’s family as they seek justice in the murder of their son. We ask that State Attorney Wolfinger publicly endorse the efforts to arrest and prosecute George Zimmerman, even before the Grand Jury has made its decision. Thank you, and have a great day!“

3. Contact the original sponsor of Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” legislation, Rep. Dennis K. Baxley, and encourage him to sponsor a process of revision of the law so that murderers like Zimmerman cannot hide behind such a vaguely-worded piece of legislation in the future. Here’s an example that you could use (but try to make it personal):
“Hello, my name is ______________. I am writing to encourage Rep. Baxley to consider formally revisiting Florida’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ law that he sponsored, the vaguest of it’s kind in the nation, on the floor of the House. Please open an investigation into ways that this law can be used to shield murderers from prosecution, just like it has done for George Zimmerman after he murdered Trayvon Martin. You told the CBS Evening News that you would be willing to revisit the law if changes were needed, and we hope that you will hold to your word and at least investigate this possibility. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, ____________“

JUSTICE FOR TRAYVON MARTIN. Please take action today!!!

SOURCE: http://changefromwithin.org/2012/03/23/trayvon-martin-3-things-you-can-do/

Free Diabetic Foot Testing Kits

2011-11-17T16:02:34Z

Tampa based medical device manufacturer Anodyne Therapy LLC, will mark World Diabetes Day by providing up to 2,000 free diabetic foot testing kits in an effort to raise awareness on foot complications in those with diabetes.

2,000 of the foot testing kits will be available FREE on a first-call, first-serve basis from November 14th (World Diabetes Day) through November 18th. Included in the kit will be a 10 gram monofilament, evaluation form and a practical guide to living with diabetes that includes routine foot care recommendations. Interested people with diabetes should call 1-800-521-6664 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-521-6664 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit http://www.anodynetherapy.com/diabetesday to request their free kit.

http://healthmbs.blogspot.com/

Soda Chronicles- One Month Strong!

2011-11-13T21:26:32Z

It has been a little over a month since I've given up drinking soda. However, the temptation to drink that fizzy concoction has not completely left me. I still get chills when I walk down the beverage aisle in the grocery store. I remember thinking, "Just one soda won't hurt."

But my addiction to the bubbles and sugary goodness are like that of an alcoholic or "crackhead"; one drink or hit just won't do. One "hit" will turn into two, three, or even four. Then I'll be a full-fledged addict all over again. So, I digress. It's "on to the next one" as I sip on this Wild Cherry Capri Sun and leave the past behind.

Occupy Tampa!

2011-11-02T01:08:58Z

I have closed my bank accounts with "Capitalist of America" today! I suspect they assumed I was an "occupier" who was joining forces with the long line of individuals closing their bank accounts in Miami, Florida. However, I must admit, this was long overdue. The member representative asked, "Why are you closing your accounts?" I said, "The story is too long. You don't have all day." He insisted, "Do you have a short version?" I replied, "Fees, fees, and more fees!" When I heard him break my debit card as I exited his office, I thought to myself, "Free at last, Free at last, Thank God almighty, I'm free at last!" If you're interested, Saturday, November 5th, 2011 is Bank Transfer Day. This is a day devoted to banks, their role in the financial collapse, and what you can do to get your money out of the hands of bankers. In coordination with http://moveyourmoneyproject.org/. For more information, visit http://www.occupytampa.org.

SODA FREE!!!

2011-10-30T01:44:59Z

On October 10th, 2011, I was informed that the average 12 ounce can of soda contains at least 10 sugar packets. I was shocked and disappointed because I love soda! However, this dose of reality opened my eyes and I have been soda free since October 11th, 2011. Unfortunately, I had already drank a soda prior to receiving this information on that day. GOOD NEWS: I have lost 4 pounds in three weeks! I have not exercised nor have I eaten less. Please be clear that I'm not denying exercise and eating smaller portions are also healthy habits to adopt. I am simply saying that all I've done is STOPPED DRINKING SODA! Instead, I have been drinking Capri Sun (16 grams of sugar per pouch) and Propel Zero (sugar free) on a regular basis. Compared to Coca Cola's 39 grams, Dr. Pepper's 40 grams, and Mountain Dew's 46 grams, I must say that less is definitely proving to be better. Why not join me in this journey because I could sure use the support. After purchasing a 16 oz. Coca Cola for my husband this morning that he used to clean acid from the battery, I realized that this may be an uphill battle. I wanted to drink that soda SO BAD! But I didn't and I hope you won't either. Feel free to reply to this post or email me at lscott@coalmindpublications.com with any questions or comments.

SoBE Multi-Ethnicity Beauty Expo 2011

2011-08-23T20:44:48Z

The SoBE Hair Show- Multi-Ethnicity Beauty Expo 2011 will host exhibitors featuring the latest industry products, cutting edge education classes, energizing showroom, and after party entertainment.

WHEN: December 2011
WHERE: South Beath Miami, Florida

For more information, visit http://www.sobehairshow.com/

Haute! An Exquisite Evening of Style & Fashion

2011-08-21T14:53:16Z

HAUTE! is an event that will spotlight contributions that accessory designers make to the fashion industry….featuring the unique and creative works of selected accessory designers. We invite you to witness the tremendous creations of these talented individuals in an atmosphere of unmatched ambiance for this quality event. Enjoy smooth jazz, delicious bites and drinks all while mixing and mingling with fashionistas, media, models, designers and fellow fashion lovers.

When: September 2, 2011 at 7:00PM
Location: Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
Address: 200 North Tampa Street

Source: http://www.tampabayfashionshows.com

Tampa Bay Fashion Week 2011

2011-08-19T23:38:17Z

Tampa Bay Fashion Week is hosting a casting call for featured designers and models for their 2011 event! If you’d like to be a part of the Tampa Bay region’s Official Fashion Week, then don’t miss the casting call on Saturday, Aug. 20th, 2011!

Tampa Bay Fashion Week takes place from September 20-24, 2011.

For more information, please visit http://www.fashionweektampabay.com

Fabulously Unique Natural Hair Affair 2010

2010-11-21T14:48:00Z

On Saturday, November 6^th, 2010, Rochelle Graham-Campbell, also known by her Youtube subscribers as Black Onyx, hosted the Fabulously Unique Natural Hair Affair. Rochelle Graham is the CEO and President of Alikay Naturals, a natural hair care line. She is also the CEO and President of Nyamani Chic, a jewelry and accessory line. This event was held at the Sons of Italy Lodge in South Tampa from 10am to 4pm. There were a variety of panelists who shared valuable information to the attendees through discussion panels. The panelists were Rochelle Graham-Campbell, Denitrika Craig, Nina Ellis Hervey, Mofe Tyehimba, Marlene Moulton, M.D., and Phyllis Allen. These discussion panel topics included natural hair, locs and sisterlocs, and health and wellness.

Mrs. Graham-Campbell began the first discussion panel with a helpful technique when washing natural hair. She stated that she usually parts her hair into eight to ten sections with duck bill clips. She is sure not to use too much shampoo. She also doesn’t wash the conditioner completely out in order to keep her hair sealed. She then adds her own oils. Ms. Craig stated that she washes her hair with purified water to help guard against buildup. Ms. Tyehimba stated that locs should be bundled when washing so they don’t come loose. She also stated that less conditioner is best so as to not create a buildup in the locs. Ms. Allen advised “naturals” on appropriate trimming. She stated, “When you begin to comb your hair and go ‘uh, uh’, it’s time for a trim.

The attendees were also exposed to a variety of new terminologies and hair care techniques which were taught by the panelists. Mrs. Graham-Campbell taught the co-washing technique which is when hair is washed with conditioner only. This technique enables the hair to be moisturized without stripping. Ms. Hervey taught the finger-combing technique which is when the hair is completely drenched in conditioner and the fingers are used as a comb. There were also teachings about hair cleansing, loc trimming, breakage, deep treatments, detangling, and hair growth cycles.

Dr. Moulton provided useful information during the health and wellness panel. She informed attendees to have themselves screened for anemia if their hair is shedding or in poor health. She also recommended being screened for thyroid if their hair is extra dry, thin, or oily. She encouraged the attendees to take care of their three selves; spiritual, psychological, and physical. Ms. Hervey also contributed to this panel by sharing her weight loss journey. She lost 80 to 100 pounds in a year.

The “Fabulous Naturals” Hair Show was phenomenal. There was an assortment of hairstyles showcased such as afros, twist-outs, Mohawks, single-strand twists, braided and twisted extensions, and styled locs. The models were all adorning intricately crafted clutches which were designed by the host herself.

There were also a number of vendors which included, but was not limited to, Badar’s Hair & All (Badar Unmsa), Wild Queendom (Sherelle Dozier), GL Accessories (Gwendolyn Lancaster), No More Limitz- Organo Gold (Kennard Blyden), Geseen (Shenikah Garcia), Hair It Iz Salon (Marlo Scott), Naturally Divine Co. Jewelry (Pamela Robinson), Heavily Rooted (Denitrika Craig), Nubian Knots Salon (Mofe Tyehimba), Phil Rich International Salon (Phyllis Allen), and Beautiful Brwn Baby Dol (Nina Ellis Hervey).

In the words of Mrs. Rochelle Graham-Campbell, “You don’t have to be limited when you decide to go natural. We are fabulous and fierce so rock it!”

VENDOR WEBSITES:

http://www.blackonyxworld.com

http://www.badarshairandall.com

http://www.wildqueendom.etsy.com

http://www.glaccessories.etsy.com

http://www.nomorelimitz.com

http://www.geseennaturalbeauty.com

http://www.hairitizsalon.com

http://www.naturallydivineco.com

http://www.heavilyrooted.com

http://www.nubianknots.tripod.com

http://www.philrichintl.com

http://www.beautifulbrwnbabydol.com

FABULOUSLY UNIQUE NATURAL HAIR AFFAIR 2010

2010-09-27T21:47:00Z

FABULOUSLY UNIQUE NATURAL HAIR AFFAIR 2010

EVENT DATE: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2010

EVENT LOCATION: SONS OF ITALY LODGE/ 3315 W. LEMON STREET/ TAMPA, FL 33609

TICKET PRIVE: $15 (IN ADVANCE); $20 (AT THE DOOR)

TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!!!

PURCHASE AT: http://blackonyxworld.com/NATURAL_HAIR_AFFAIR_2010.html

DON'T MISS OUT ON ADVICE FROM NATURAL HAIR, HEALTH, AND WEIGHT LOSS EXPERTS!!!

1st Annual Black Independent Authors Expo

2010-05-16T02:08:00Z

The Maryland African American Author's Expo invites you to be a part of the 1st Annual Black Independent Authors Expo

Presented by Charm City Jazz
Hilton Columbia Hotel
Columbia, MD

The Maryland African American Author's Expo (M.A.A.A.E.) is an event that showcases independent black authors in the metropolitan region. The event is free and open to the public where book lovers from the metropolitan area can come and be up close and personal with many independent authors. This expo will present an array of literary and emerging authors who represent literature of fiction, non-fiction, unpublished, self-published, how-to, biography, romance and children's books.

The event is to be held on August 14th, 2010.

Contact Patricia Johnson, Event Planner, Charm City Jazz, at 443-421-2070, for information on authors' spaces.

For more information, visit http://blackauthors.ning.com/events/1st-annual-black-independent

GRACE- God loves me right where I am.

2010-04-25T20:21:00Z

As a child I may have learned that I must earn all good things in life. In school, awards are handed out for special achievement; at work, promotions are given to high achievers. I may also have believed that God, too, rewards only those who make an extra effort.

Grace teaches me that I am loved right where I am, regardless of what I have or have not done. I do not have to earn God's love. I do not have to achieve a certain status or reach a certain milestone to be loved. Right where I am, God loves me. In gratitude, I become more aware of the gifts of life and love that are mine every day. I relax as I awaken to the wonder of being God's beloved, right here and now.

You make him glad with the joy of your presence.--Psalm 21:6

Source: http://www.dailyword.com/

Networking Know-How- 5 Steps to Success

2010-04-21T14:47:00Z

Networking Know-How- 5 Steps to Success

Quality vs. quantity - The number of people you know does not matter. It is the quality of your contacts that does. Who are the decision makers? Influencers? Who can you help and how?
Slow down - Business relationships take time. Get to know people not only from a business perspective but from a personal perspective too.
Go low tech - In some cases, a quick phone call can be more efficient than many emails. Pick up the phone and even find time to meet face-to-face. Email is excellent when sending documents or directions - don't overuse it.
Seek diversity – Make sure you have a diverse network of connections.
Introductions rule! - When someone takes time out of their day to make the effort to introduce you, it is the ultimate flattery. This separates name droppers from the genuine networkers.

Source: http://mochamanual.com/mochamanual/Business-Building-Skills-101/

SUPER FOODS

2010-04-08T17:05:00Z

Garlic (along with onion, leeks and shallots) promotes better blood circulation and lower cholesterol levels. Garlic also contains sulfur compounds, which may prevent cancer cell growth.

Flax seeds are rich in fiber and iron. They lower cholesterol, prevent constipation and stabilize blood-sugar levels, and along with their oil, are among the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce heart disease. Flaxseeds also ease inflammation and improve mood.

http://www.garlicrecipes.org/

http://www.flaxhealth.com/recipes.htm

SCOLIOSIS WALK-A-THON

2010-04-08T13:10:00Z

SCOLIOSIS ASSOCIATION OF PALM HARBOR

Meets the second Friday of each month at the North Pinellas Branch YMCA conference room 7 - 8:30

Scoliosis 5th Annual 1.5 Mile Walk-a-thon - Saturday, April 10, 2010

"Sweep Across America for Scoliosis"

John Chesnut Park in Palm Harbor, Florida. Shelter #6. Walk begins 9:30 am (check-in 8:30-9:15 a.m.) Registration includes T-shirt, food and beverage, raffle tickets. Grand Prizes awarded to Top 3 Fundraisers (may include weekend getaway, gift baskets).

FAMILY FUN! Bounce House for Children - Sponsor Exhibits - Raffles Prizes - East Lake Fire & Rescue - Radio Station TBA - Live Band

REGISTER before April 1, 2010 for only $10.00
ONSITE REGISTRATION: $15.00 (T-shirt sizes are limited and cannot be guaranteed for on-site registration)

FREE REGISTRATION FOR AGE 12 AND UNDER!

2 EASY WAYS TO REGISTER AND RECEIVE FUNDRAISER PACKETS: EMAIL US AT: PALMHARBORSCOLI@AOL.COM OR CALL SCOLIOSIS ASSOCIATION (727) SCOLI-12 OR (727) 726-5412

A STAR TREK THANKSGIVING MORNING...

2009-11-26T14:52:04Z

Let me paint this picture for you. I take my daughter and nephew downstairs to La Quinta's Continental breakfast this morning. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, it wasn't. While I was fetching orange juice for my nephew who said he wanted lemonade, my daughter says, "Mommy?" Of course I quickly turn to her and say, "Yes?" She says, "These people keep looking at us." Well, I do what I feel any self-respecting parent would do. I ask her not to repeat what she said even though my nephew insists that she does by asking, "Why not?" I tell her because it's not a nice thing to say. Well, just when I think the worst is over after I've delivered freshly made waffles to the demanding tag team, I am so wrong. My nephew says, "Auntie Trice?" I again say, "Yes?" He says, "She was talking to a stranger and it's that man right there." Mind you, the man he's talking about is not a day under 75 years old and is staring right at me.
At this time I'm wishing Star Trek is more than a popular TV show because I want to scream, "BEAM ME UP SCOTTY!" To make matters worst, my mother and sister finally come downstairs and I immediately whisper to them, "I am never taking the kids to continental breakfast by myself ever again!" My sister looks over at my daughter and her son who are smiling and eating peacefully and says, "What's wrong? They look like they're having a good time." I say, "Of course they are, but believe me, it wasn't easy getting them that way."
My Thanksgiving morning is a prime example of "Kids saying the darndest things!!!"

Racism in Transformers

2009-07-01T20:40:00Z

This is a clip from a recent article by Sandy Cohen (The Associated Press).

"Harmless comic characters or racist robots? The buzz over the summer blockbuster "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" only grew Wednesday as some said two jive-talking Chevy characters were racial caricatures. Skids and Mudflap, twin robots disguised as compact hatchbacks, constantly brawl and bicker in rap-inspired street slang. They're forced to acknowledge that they can't read. One has a gold tooth."

I personally don't believe the writers and directors included these chararcters in this film with an intent to be racist. Just because these robots "jive talk" and have bucked or gold teeth doesn't make them black! I believe the true racists are the people who immediately associate these characteristics with the African-American race.

What do you think?

Sports Fishers VS. Keepers

2009-06-03T20:20:00Z

"If his conversation with you is extremely superficial, and never seems to graduate beyond the surface, he's sports fishing; if he genuinely seems interested in your needs, life, desires, and future, then he's looking for a keeper."

-Source: (Chapt. 6) "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man" written By: Steve Harvey

Picture this. A man spots a beautiful woman from across the room. He approaches her and makes small talk. For those of you who've read this book, you may have an idea of where this is headed. HE WANTS SOMETHING FROM HER!!! And what do all men want, need, and crave? SEX!!! However, a woman must set standards for herself and the relationships she is willing to become involved in. If she is looking for a commitment, she can't settle for a casual sexual encounter, which is the only thing a "sports fisher" can offer. A man who is interested in a woman's thoughts, needs, dreams, hopes, desires, and beyond is definitely a "keeper". This man has found a treasure he feels is worth keeping.

In so saying, "One man's treasure can be another man's trash". Steve Harvey stated, "You could be the most perfect woman on the Lord's green Earth- you're capable of interesting conversation, you cook a mean breakfast, you hand out backrubs like sandwiches, you're independent (which means to him, that you're not going to be in his pockets)- but if he's not ready for a serious relationship, he's going to treat you like a sports fish."

I've heard women say this all the time, "I'm a good woman! Why can't I find or keep a good man? I cook, I clean, I work, etc.!" These things don't matter if a man is NOT READY TO COMMIT! Get to know him before you find yourself in to deep. Set ground rules for your next relationship such as "No casual sex for me" or "I don't take calls after 10 p.m. because my kids are asleep". Believe me, you will weed out the "Sports Fishers" from the "Keepers" in no time!

JUST TWO WORDS: "SIX DAYS"

2008-10-30T00:42:00Z

Good evening all,

I am elated to report that a very close family member of mine now supports Barack Obama and she has pledged to go to the polls tomorrow to vote for him. My aunt and I had an hour-long talk with her tonight addressing some of what we found to be "non-issues" with Obama.

She could not express even ONE valid reason why she had chosen not to vote for him in the past. She admitted that she believed Hillary Clinton had been treated unfairly. She could not explain any examples of this "unfair" treatment, however. She in turn took her feelings out on Obama. Again I say, "Hillary Clinton has moved on. When will you?" Is it not unfair to blame Obama for any suspected "unfair" treatment? Of course it is!

My aunt pointed out that Obama is an African-American man who has never been in jail, is college-educated, and is married with no baby-mamas, to name a few. She also pointed out that parents can actually tell their African-American children that they can be the President when they grow up and believe it. Before, it was just something that parents said to their children to encourage them to strive for higher education.

Obama has worked hard to become the strong leader that stands before us today. He has remained composed under the pressure of negative comments which has oftentimes been mistaken for arrogance. He believes that America as we know it is in need of a change.

My aunt and I deduced that her previous statement, "I just can't see Barack as the President," was due to the fact that there has never been a non-white president before him. How can we expect a nation of multi-cultural people to except a Black presidential candidate when it has been brain-washed to believe that only Caucasian males have the right to be president?

This is not as easy task, by far. But Obama has succeeded in convincing over half of the nation.

There still, however, remains a group of Americans that stand to remain unaffected by the financial crisis, home foreclosures, job layoffs, budget cuts, and increasing gas prices by voting for McCain.

But the disbelieving group of Americans acting as "crabs-in-a-barrel" stand to regret their decision of not voting for Obama, voting for McCain, or worse, not casting a vote at all.

I continue to stand with Obama believing that in SIX more days, America will VOTE FOR CHANGE.

By changing her mind, we put into action Obama's words, "I'm asking you to believe. Not just in my ability to bring about real change in Washington...I'm asking you to believe in yours."

DON'T MESS WITH MY TV

2008-10-29T01:45:00Z

Michelle Obama appeared on the Jay Leno show a few days ago. She discussed the multi-network commercial that Obama will run this Wednesday. CBS negotiated to sell Obama its half-hour on Oct. 29, the Wednesday before the Nov. 4 election, for $961,000. NBC sold its half-hour for $891,250.

When Malia, their oldest daughter, overheard that her father would be "taking over" a few major networks, she asked, "You're going to be on ALL TV? Are you going to be on my TV?"

Obama replied, "No. We didn't buy time on Disney and Nick."

Malia responded, "Oh, good", in relief.

I, for one, am glad Obama will be "taking over" the networks I watch. For all you non-believers, all three of you, tune in and LEARN SOMETHING ABOUT OUR FUTURE PRESIDENT!

Good Night Folks, Even You "Folksy" Folks!