﻿<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" version="2.0"><channel><ttl>60</ttl><title>COAL MIND PUBLICATIONS, LLC'S WEEKLY BLOG</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com</link><lastBuildDate>Fri, 30 Jul 2010 03:45:51 GMT</lastBuildDate><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jul 2010 03:45:51 GMT</pubDate><language>en</language><copyright /><itunes:subtitle>Writer retreat!!!!</itunes:subtitle><itunes:author /><itunes:summary>Info on what writes are doing.</itunes:summary><description>Info on what writes are doing.</description><itunes:owner><itunes:name /><itunes:email>lscott@coalmindpublications.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:category text="Arts"><itunes:category text="Literature" /></itunes:category><item><title>1st Annual Black Independent Authors Expo</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/05/15/1st-annual-black-independent-authors-expo.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;span style="font-size: 16px;"&gt;The Maryland African American Author's Expo invites you to be a part of the 1st Annual Black Independent Authors Expo&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Presented by Charm City Jazz&lt;br /&gt;
Hilton Columbia Hotel&lt;br /&gt;
Columbia, MD&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
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 This expo will present an array of literary and emerging authors who represent literature of fiction, non-fiction, unpublished, self-published, how-to, biography, romance and children's books.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
The event is to be held on August 14th, 2010.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Contact Patricia Johnson, Event Planner, Charm City Jazz, at 443-421-2070, for information on authors' spaces.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
For more information, visit &lt;a href="http://blackauthors.ning.com/events/1st-annual-black-independent"&gt;http://blackauthors.ning.com/events/1st-annual-black-independent&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/05/15/1st-annual-black-independent-authors-expo.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">9a40bb19-01b6-461b-b4d7-437cf54e92cb</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 May 2010 02:08:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>GRACE- God loves me right where I am.</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/25/grace-god-loves-me-right-where-i-am.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;div class="dw_date"&gt;
&lt;div class="affirmation"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;div class="bodycopy"&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;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.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;div class="verse"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;You make him glad with the joy of your presence.--Psalm 21:6&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
Source: &lt;a href="http://www.dailyword.com/"&gt;http://www.dailyword.com/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/25/grace-god-loves-me-right-where-i-am.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">1c4605be-90f8-4f39-97a7-e6c39298522d</guid><pubDate>Sun, 25 Apr 2010 20:21:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Networking Know-How- 5 Steps to Success</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/21/networking-knowhow-5-steps-to-success.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;div class="adminbox xg_module xg_span-4 adminbox-right"&gt;
&lt;div class="xg_module_head"&gt;
&lt;h2&gt;&lt;span style="background-color: #efefef;"&gt;Networking Know-How- 5 Steps to Success&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;/div&gt;
&lt;ol&gt;
    &lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13pt; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Quality vs. quantity&lt;/b&gt; - The number of people you know does not matter. It is the quality of your&lt;/span&gt; &lt;span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13pt; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"&gt;contacts that does. Who are the decision makers? Influencers? Who can you help and how?&lt;/span&gt; &lt;/li&gt;
    &lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13pt; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Slow down&lt;/b&gt; - Business relationships take time. Get to know people not only from a business perspective but from a personal perspective too.&lt;/span&gt; &lt;/li&gt;
    &lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13pt; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Go low tech&lt;/b&gt; - 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.&lt;/span&gt; &lt;/li&gt;
    &lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13pt; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Seek diversity&lt;/b&gt; – Make sure you have a diverse network of connections.&lt;/span&gt; &lt;/li&gt;
    &lt;li&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13pt; font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Introductions rule!&lt;/b&gt; - 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.&lt;/span&gt; &lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ol&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Source: &lt;a href="http://mochamanual.com/mochamanual/Business-Building-Skills-101/"&gt;&lt;span style="color: #000000;"&gt;http://mochamanual.com/mochamanual/Business-Building-Skills-101/&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/21/networking-knowhow-5-steps-to-success.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">006f19c7-0b5d-48fc-87e5-77e791f4a00e</guid><pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:47:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>SUPER FOODS</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/08/super-foods.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;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.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
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.&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;/span&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.garlicrecipes.org/"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;http://www.garlicrecipes.org/&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;a href="http://www.flaxhealth.com/recipes.htm"&gt;&lt;span style="font-size: 18px;"&gt;http://www.flaxhealth.com/recipes.htm&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/08/super-foods.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">18668100-5da9-4ffe-8f07-04c7cef98918</guid><pubDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010 17:05:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>SCOLIOSIS WALK-A-THON</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/08/scoliosis-walkathon.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;P align=center&gt;&lt;FONT face=arial size=5&gt;SCOLIOSIS ASSOCIATION OF PALM HARBOR&lt;/FONT&gt; &lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P class=style29 align=center&gt;&lt;FONT face=arial&gt;&lt;O&lt;IMG border="0" src="http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/emoticons/tongue.png" /&gt;&amp;gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;Meets the second Friday of each month at the North Pinellas Branch YMCA conference room 7 - 8:30 &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/O&lt;IMG border="0" src="http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/emoticons/tongue.png" /&gt;&amp;gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P class=style83 align=center&gt;&lt;FONT face=arial&gt;&lt;O&lt;IMG border="0" src="http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/emoticons/tongue.png" /&gt;&amp;gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/O&lt;IMG border="0" src="http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/emoticons/tongue.png" /&gt;&amp;gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P class=style60 align=center&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;Scoliosis 5th Annual 1.5 Mile Walk-a-thon - Saturday, April 10, 2010 &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P align=center&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;EM&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;"Sweep Across America for Scoliosis"&amp;nbsp;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/EM&gt;&lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;John Chesnut Park in Palm Harbor, Florida.&amp;nbsp; Shelter #6. Walk begins 9:30 am (check-in 8:30-9:15 a.m.) Registration includes T-shirt, food and beverage, raffle tickets.&amp;nbsp; Grand Prizes awarded to Top 3 Fundraisers (may include weekend getaway, gift baskets). &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;FAMILY FUN! Bounce House for Children - Sponsor Exhibits - Raffles Prizes - East Lake Fire &amp;amp; Rescue - Radio Station TBA - Live Band &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;REGISTER before April 1, 2010 for only $10.00&lt;BR&gt;ONSITE REGISTRATION: $15.00 (T-shirt sizes are limited and cannot be guaranteed for on-site registration) &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;FREE REGISTRATION FOR AGE 12 AND UNDER! &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;
&lt;P&gt;&lt;STRONG&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;2 EASY WAYS TO REGISTER AND RECEIVE FUNDRAISER PACKETS:&amp;nbsp; EMAIL US AT: &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;A href="mailto:%20palmharborscoli@aol.com"&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;PALMHARBORSCOLI@AOL.COM&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/A&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt; OR CALL SCOLIOSIS ASSOCIATION (727) SCOLI-12 OR (727) 726-5412&lt;/FONT&gt; &lt;/STRONG&gt;&lt;/P&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2010/04/08/scoliosis-walkathon.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">ccc8d03a-1a16-443b-90f4-b141ff88a1ca</guid><pubDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010 13:10:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>A STAR TREK THANKSGIVING MORNING...</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2009/11/26/thanksgiving-fun-with-my-daughter-and-nephew.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;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&amp;nbsp;and is staring right at me.&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;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."&lt;BR&gt;My Thanksgiving morning is a prime example of "Kids saying the darndest things!!!"&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2009/11/26/thanksgiving-fun-with-my-daughter-and-nephew.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">4fe38b94-dabe-4149-a4b8-91ef19982009</guid><pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:52:04 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Racism in Transformers</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2009/07/01/racism-in-transformers.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;This is a clip from a recent article by Sandy Cohen (The Associated Press).&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;"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."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;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. &lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;What do you think?&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2009/07/01/racism-in-transformers.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">98c0ccce-0be8-4143-8a4d-543d9b643dd7</guid><pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:40:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>Sports Fishers VS. Keepers</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2009/06/03/sports-fishers-vs-keepers.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;"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."&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;-Source: (Chapt. 6) "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man" written By: Steve Harvey &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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." &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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!&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2009/06/03/sports-fishers-vs-keepers.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">109fd73b-c5c3-43da-a389-ce1499277ce2</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 20:20:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>JUST TWO WORDS: "SIX DAYS"</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/29/my--supports-obama-now.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;Good evening all,&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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.&amp;nbsp; She could not explain any examples of this "unfair" treatment, however.&amp;nbsp;She in turn took&amp;nbsp;her feelings&amp;nbsp;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!&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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.&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;My aunt and I deduced that&amp;nbsp;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?&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;This is not as easy task, by far. But Obama has succeeded in convincing over half of the nation. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;There still, however,&amp;nbsp;remains a group of Americans&amp;nbsp;that stand to remain unaffected by the financial crisis, home foreclosures, job layoffs, budget cuts, and increasing gas prices by voting for McCain.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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.&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;I continue to stand with Obama believing that in SIX more days, America will VOTE FOR CHANGE.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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."&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/29/my--supports-obama-now.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">d0891191-e1db-4a3a-96d7-f3807f381fee</guid><pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:42:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>DON'T MESS WITH MY TV</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/28/dont-mess-with-my-tv.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;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. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;When Malia, their oldest daughter, overheard that her father would be "taking over" a few major networks, she asked, "You're going to&amp;nbsp;be on ALL TV? Are you going to be on my TV?" &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Obama replied, "No. We didn't buy time on Disney and Nick."&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Malia responded, "Oh, good", in relief.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;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!&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Good Night Folks, Even You "Folksy" Folks!&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/28/dont-mess-with-my-tv.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">2b87763a-856d-486e-91c2-50dfeed0f086</guid><pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2008 01:45:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>"Hit or Miss" Book Review by APOOO!!!</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/25/hit-or-miss-book-review-by-apooo.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;Hit or Miss by Latrice Scott takes us on a wild ride through Miami, Florida as we are introduced to Keyerra.&amp;nbsp; Keyerra is a young girl who requires the best things in life, falling down on her luck she is looking for a sugar daddy or a fast come up.&amp;nbsp; So she decides to hook up with her friend Nay-Nay and find out how she holds it all together and always seem to stay so fly.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;To read the complete review, visit:&lt;BR&gt;&lt;U&gt;&lt;FONT color=#800080&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;A href="http://www.apooobooks.com/hit-latrice-scott"&gt;http://www.apooobooks.com/hit-latrice-scott&lt;/A&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/U&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/25/hit-or-miss-book-review-by-apooo.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">4a0bcd78-8511-4c35-9600-d9ee5e847975</guid><pubDate>Sat, 25 Oct 2008 19:49:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>LILLIE MCCAIN</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/24/lillie-mccain.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;If your ancestry could be traced back to a family that owned African-American relatives of yours as slaves, would you consider that family to be YOUR BLOOD RELATIVES? Not to mention, this family is Caucasian and includes a very prominent member, John McCain!&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Meet Lillie McCain! Lillie McCain's family is descended from two slaves, named Isom and Lettie. She is their great-great granddaughter. They remained closely entwined with the white family for decades after the Civil War, taking its surname and living close by on land rented from their former owners.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;The black McCains of today were raised to believe that they were blood relatives of the white McCains, dating back to slavery times. White McCains say they're unaware of any biological connection between the families.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Lillie McCain remembers seeing Martin Luther King Jr. speak from the back of a flatbed truck in nearby Greenwood. In the late 1960s, black McCain children were among those who integrated the previously all-white schools in the county seat, Carrollton. In 1969, Lillie McCain was one of the first two African-Americans to graduate from the integrated high school. Four of the six McCain children in her family served in the military and all six earned college degrees.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;What great history and accomplishment the black McCains were and still are a part of. I believe her father said it best as quoted by her sister Mary McCain Fluker, "You are no better than anybody, but you're just as good as anybody."&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Lillie McCain holds a doctorate in psychology and teaches at Mott Community College in Flint, Michigan.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;For the full article, visit: &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;A href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122419511761942501.html?mod=googlenews_wsj"&gt;&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122419511761942501.html?mod=googlenews_wsj&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/A&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/24/lillie-mccain.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">5f78e79e-9a83-4080-a574-99a4c864a8ff</guid><pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2008 22:44:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>DON'T HAVE TIME</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/23/dont-have-time.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;I wanted to write something interesting, intriguing, and stimulating. But the only thing that keeps running through my head is Liz Phair's song, "Don't Have Time". So I'll share that with you! &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;
&lt;BLOCKQUOTE&gt;Take a look around&lt;BR&gt;This is what it's now&lt;BR&gt;It's a little bridge now, baby&lt;BR&gt;It's a little bridge now&lt;BR&gt;Just a photograph&lt;BR&gt;Kinda makes me laugh&lt;BR&gt;It's a little kid now, baby&lt;BR&gt;Some little kid&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;If I could solve your problems&lt;BR&gt;What do you think I would be&lt;BR&gt;One stupid seagull picking styrofoam up out of the sea?&lt;BR&gt;Don't have time&lt;BR&gt;Don't have time&lt;BR&gt;Don't have time for all your problems&lt;BR&gt;Why don't you solve them?&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Take a look around&lt;BR&gt;This is what it's now&lt;BR&gt;It's a little bridge now, baby&lt;BR&gt;It's a little bridge now&lt;BR&gt;Just a photograph&lt;BR&gt;Kinda makes me laugh&lt;BR&gt;It's a little kid now&lt;BR&gt;Pudgy, dumb little kid&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;If I could solve your problems&lt;BR&gt;What do you think I would see?&lt;BR&gt;All of my beautiful banquet receipts have been laid out for me&lt;BR&gt;It's been played out for me&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Don't have time for your fear, and your tea, and your queer little feats&lt;BR&gt;And your joy, and your sweet little boy&lt;BR&gt;And you're trapped in your sphere&lt;BR&gt;I'm sorry but no one's home&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;I couldn't hear you, and now I think I've lost you&lt;BR&gt;I could've made it easier and you would think that's good&lt;BR&gt;Don't remember feeling older any worse than feeling wooden and alone&lt;BR&gt;Wooden and alone&lt;BR&gt;&lt;/BLOCKQUOTE&gt;&lt;BR&gt;What I don't have time for is listening to nonsensical reasons why people are choosing not to vote for Obama. For example, my best friend said that she's going to write Hillary Clinton's name in on her absentee ballot. I replied, "She's not a candidate!" She said, "She will be after I write her name in." The conviction in her reasoning made me sick to my stomach. Mind you, it was way too early and I hadn't even eaten yet. I told her, "If you want to waste your ink, go right ahead. That'll at least be one less vote for McCain."&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;But the reality is that she is not the only person with this "strategy" in mind. People, people, people! Hillary Clinton has moved on! When will you?&amp;nbsp;Election day is steadily approaching and the choices we make on that day stand to affect this country for at least the next 4 years. Make wise choices and vote for someone that is ACTUALLY a Presidential candidate!&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Like Liz Phair said, "Don't have time for all your problems? Why don't you solve them?" &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Whatever problems you may have with Barack Obama, solve&amp;nbsp;them before November 4th and&amp;nbsp;VOTE SMART AND FROM THE HEART!!!&lt;/FONT&gt;&amp;nbsp;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/23/dont-have-time.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">8d3463ab-bb0a-434d-ae4c-37d54a395cc5</guid><pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2008 01:18:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS FIGHTS THE ECONOMY!!!</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/21/captain-underpants-fights-the-economy.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;I'm really hurting...This economy has kicked me hard today, and yesterday, and last week! Hopefully that saying, "There's nowhere to go but UP from here" is true. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Sorry, folks...I had to get that off my chest. However, reading and literature lives on.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Today I would like to draw attention to a series of books geared towards elementary and middle school readers. It's called "Captain Underpants" by Dav Pilkey. While working in the library as a Media Assistant, (Trying to make ends meet), I came across this wonderful series. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;This series is centered around two 4th graders, Harold and George, who have "accidentally" hypnotized their principal, Mr. Benny Krupp,&amp;nbsp;to be "Captain Underpants". The story follows them while they make mischief and pull pranks on the entire student body and their administrators. For example,&amp;nbsp;before an assembly, George and Harold create a super-sticky solution made from glue and orange juice and apply it to everyone's seat except their own, of course. At first, the entire auditorium explodes with laughter, but it abruptly stops when they realize the joke is on THEM. That's when Harold and George make a run for it!!!!!&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;These books are full of pranks, jokes, stunts, tricks, and fun! Before I knew it, I was half way through this novel within the first hour. I can't wait until tomorrow to finish reading "Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets". Be sure to pick up a copy for yourself and your children. It'll be loads of fun for the entire family! &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Until then, it's back to fighting the economy's storm and STRONGLY SUPPORTING OBAMA/BIDEN '08!!!&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/21/captain-underpants-fights-the-economy.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">c1c34ae8-9cea-4388-91b3-ea0e67b62092</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Oct 2008 23:26:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>HAIR &amp; FASHION ASSASSINS 2008</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/17/hair--fashion-assassins-2008.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;The Tampa Bay, Orlando, and Jacksonville, Florida&amp;nbsp;Beauty Institutes invite you to attend their graduation ceremony held at&amp;nbsp;Tampa's Hyatt Regency Hotel on Sunday, October 19th, 2008&amp;nbsp;from 4pm to 5:30pm. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;There will also be a hair and fashion showcase, "Hair and Fashion Assassins 2008",&amp;nbsp;held the same evening from 6pm to 8pm at the Hyatt. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. There will also be door prizes. Please support these young entrepreneurs in their quest for success, achievement, and stardom!!!!! &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;For more information, please visit&amp;nbsp;the Tampa Bay Beauty Institute located at 5014 E. Busch Blvd./ Tampa, FL 33617. Tickets for the graduation ceremony/ hair &amp;amp; fashion showcase can also be purchased at this location.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;You can also call (813) 514-9100, (904) 768-9001, or (407) 373-0011.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;The Hyatt Regency Hotel is located at 211 N. Tampa St./ Tampa, FL 33602.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Website: &lt;A href="http://www.orlandobeautyinstitute.com/"&gt;http://www.orlandobeautyinstitute.com&lt;/A&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/10/17/hair--fashion-assassins-2008.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">c2ce6591-8755-4932-b936-8b38914ad441</guid><pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2008 22:07:05 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>SPECIAL THANKS...</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/08/18/special-thanks.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=5&gt;Special thanks go out to Toby Scott of &lt;A href="http://www.dubplusone.biz,/"&gt;www.dubplusone.biz,&lt;/A&gt; Cynthia Chipp, William Alexander, Rachel Campbell, Heather Stewart, and Fedna Morency!!! &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;You helped to make my Book Signing a great event!&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Photos will be available at: &lt;A href="http://www.coalmindpublications.com/"&gt;http://www.coalmindpublications.com&lt;/A&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/08/18/special-thanks.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">e9847651-9cdd-4e63-8d27-f42e01dca515</guid><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:52:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>BOOK SIGNING</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/08/14/book-signing.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=5&gt;Author Latrice Scott of Coal Mind Publications, LLC will reveal her first novel, "Hit or Miss". The book signing will take place in Tampa, Florida at Temple Terrace Patio Homes' Clubhouse on August 16th, 2008 from 5pm to 8pm. For more information, please email: lscott@coalmindpublications.com.&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Published By: www.coalmindpublications.com&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/08/14/book-signing.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">3f147d20-8357-46bd-bfdc-7a6410fb2a85</guid><pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:40:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>TOP TEN BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/07/04/top-ten-best-books-for-young-adults.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;Here is a listing of the TOP TEN BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS. These are just a few summer reading ideas for teenagers!&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;1) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian by Sherman Alexie&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;2) A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;3) Before I Die by Jenny Downham&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;4) Your Own, Sylvia: A Verse Portrait of Sylvia Plath by Stephanie Hemphill&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;5) Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;6) Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;7) Tamar: A Novel of Espionage, Passion, and Betrayal by Mal Peet&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;8) American Shaolin: Flying Kids, Buddhist Monks, and the Legend of Iron Crotch: An Odyssey in the New China by Matthew Polly&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;9) The Invention of Hugo Cabret: A Novel by Brian Selznick&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;10) The Arrival by Shaun Tan&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;For more information, visit &lt;A href="http://www.ala.org/"&gt;www.ala.org&lt;/A&gt; (American Library Association)&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Posted by: &lt;A href="http://www.coalmindpublications.com/"&gt;www.coalmindpublications.com&lt;/A&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/07/04/top-ten-best-books-for-young-adults.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">c7034d4a-5680-4939-b2df-f530347ebe00</guid><pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2008 17:33:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>"Hit or Miss" E-BOOK Chronicles</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/06/26/hit-or-miss-ebook-chronicles.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;THE BEGINNING...&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Three loud bells sounded just as Keyerra took her seat in Mr. Jacobs homeroom class. &lt;BR&gt;She instantly felt a nudge on her shoulder as her teacher proceeded to close and lock the door.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"What took you so long?"Dahlia whispered low enough to ensure their privacy.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"I was on the phone," Keyerra answered, not wanting to go further into detail.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"With my old ass brother again?"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Why you gotta say it like that?"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Because what ya'll doing is against the law."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"And what exactly is it that you think we're doing?"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Having sex. What else he gon' want you for?"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"How the fuck you say some shit like that to your best friend?"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"I just don't want my brother ending up in jail for messin' around with you!"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Again another fucked up thing to say to your best friend."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"A true best friend don't sit back and watch while they girl make the biggest mistake of her life."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"If that's the case, loving your brother is a mistake I'm willing to make."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Love? Love?" Dahlia raised her voice as fire flashed in her eyes.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Excuse me Ms. Carter and Ms. Gonzalez, but do you have something to share with the entire class?"&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Mr. Jacobs boisterous voice interrupted their heated discussion.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"No, sir. I'm done." Dahlia answered.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"So am I, " Keyerra retorted.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;The dismissal bell rang shortly and Keyerra rushed out of the door and into the &lt;BR&gt;nearest bathroom. Dahlia ranto catch up with her but couldn't see where she had gone. &lt;BR&gt;Meanwhile, Keyerra had burst into tears as she leaned against a locked stall. The things Dahlia &lt;BR&gt;had said hit close to home and gave her more anxiety about her involvement with Manny. &lt;BR&gt;She dialed his number hoping for guidance and love.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Hey baby. What's up?" Manny cooed.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Keyerra smiled having gotten exactly what she needed.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"I'm scared that I might lose you, Manny," her voice filled with emotion.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"What got you thinking lime that?" concerned that she was so upset.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Dahlia. She started that shit early this morning talking 'bout we breaking the law and how she &lt;BR&gt;don't want you to catch a case because of me."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"You know how Dahli is. She want the best for her big brother."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Whether she know it or not, what she said hurt my feelings."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Dahli with you?" ready to straighten her.&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"No. I was so hurt that I ran off without her. I really don't want to be here no more. Can you &lt;BR&gt;come get me?"&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"Sweetie, I want you to get your education. I'm not tryna be a bad influence on you. I do &lt;BR&gt;want your mom to like me someday."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"But this is different. Manny please. I need to see you."&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;"I'll be there in a few."&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;FOR MORE DETAILS ON HOW TO CONTINUE READING, email me at: &lt;A href="mailto:lscott@coalmindpublications.com"&gt;lscott@coalmindpublications.com&lt;/A&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;www.coalmindpublications.com&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/06/26/hit-or-miss-ebook-chronicles.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">96285362-2776-4a63-932e-3280b6d78feb</guid><pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 22:44:00 GMT</pubDate></item><item><title>THE RAP CHRONICLES</title><link>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/06/07/the-rap-chronicles.aspx?ref=rss</link><dc:creator>Author's Writing Retreat</dc:creator><description>&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;As a big fan of the VH1 series "Miss Rap Supreme, I have started to think more in-depth about the rap and hip-hop industry. After numerous searches on the origin of rap, I was unable to find many real sources that chronicled the historical content of the rap genre. The subculture of "Hip Hop" was the constant overlay in my search results. Are "Rap" and "Hip Hop" one in the same? If not, which came into existence first? If so, why is Rap and Hip Hop often classified under two different genres of music? What artists are classified as "rap artists" or "hip hop artists" and why? Does the level of skill as an MC play a part in this classification?&lt;BR&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;BR&gt;I intend to dig deep to find the answers to all of these questiopns and more. With your insight and input, I am positive that we can begin to chronicle of the history of rap. This article is the first in a series entitled, "The Rap Chronicles". This week's series will attempt to find the difference, if any, betweeb rap and hip hop.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Question 1) ARE "RAP" AND "HIP HOP" ONE IN THE SAME?&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;According to Wikipedia, Hip Hop is a subculture which is said to have begun with the work of DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash &amp;amp; the Furious Five, ans Afrika Bambaataa. The four main aspects, or "elements", of hip hop culture are MCing/rapping, DJing, urban inspired art/tagging or graffiti, and b-boying/breakdancing.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Clive Campbell A.K.A. DJ Kool Herc was born on April 16, 1955 in Jamaica. He is credited as originating hip hop music in The Bronx, New York. His playing of hard funk records of the sort typified by James Brown was an alternative both to the violent gang culture of the Bronx and to the nascent popularity of disco in the 1970s. In response to the reactions of his dancers in 1972, Campbell began to isolate the instrumental portion of the record which emphasized the drum beat-the break-and switch from one break to another to yet another.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Using the two turntable set-up of the disco DJs, Campbell's style led to the use of two copies of the same record to elongate the break. This breakbeat DJing, using hard funk, rock, and records with Latin percussion, formed the basis of hip hop music. Campbells announcements and exhortations to dancers would lead to the syncopated, rhymed spoken accompaniment we now know as rapping. He dubbed his dancers break-boys and break-girls, or simply b-boys and b-girls. Campbell's DJ style was quickly taken up by figures such as Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmaster Flash. Unlike them, he never made the move into commercially recorded hip hop in its earliest years. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Visit the website below to view a chart which outlines the difference between Rap and Hip Hop. (Source: &lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;A href="http://www.cyfm.net/article.php?article=FAQS_hip_hop_1.html"&gt;&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;http://www.cyfm.net/article.php?article=FAQS_hip_hop_1.html&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/A&gt;&lt;FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4&gt;. &lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;Overall, Hip Hop is a culture that was created in response to Rap music. What do you think?&lt;BR&gt;&lt;BR&gt;&lt;FONT size=3&gt;**SEASON FINALE OF "MISS RAP SUPREME" AIRS ON MON., JUNE 9TH, 2008 AT 9PM ON VH1.**&lt;BR&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;&lt;/FONT&gt;</description><comments>http://blog.coalmindpublications.com/2008/06/07/the-rap-chronicles.aspx#Comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">10c9573a-14c5-4b9b-b59d-9148b1f9236f</guid><pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 22:14:00 GMT</pubDate></item></channel></rss>