The Answer Sometimes Is Right At Our Fingertips

I took a few days of vacation and it's the first time in awhile that I'm not rushing to do anything today.
So here I'm thinking about songs of my youth, from gospel to Rand B and I have been in hog heaven all morning listening to them,bringing back memories lost in space and time.
A few of these songs I have posted to the right side of the "Forest". Enjoy
                                                                            Bigmac

Merry Christmas To All!

I just want to take the time to wish everyone a Merry Christmas,I'm learning to not wait for Christmas Day to celebrate Christmas and it's true meaning,but to make everyday I live Christmas.
                                                                       Bigmac

President Obama

I'll admit I have had my disappointments with President Obama's policies and decisons these past few years.
But I had a three o'clock moment this morning about the enormity of his job as President.
It's easy for me to sit here behind the computer screen and make Monday Morning quarterback comments on his decisons.
Many people who have issues with President Obama's decisons and polices need to start asking seriously why he's attention to our problems seem to be on the back burner.
During the Presidential Campaign of 2008 many people join the bandwagon to elect President Obama at the last moment.
Yes poor people came out in droves to vote for this Presidential candidate,many voted for him simply because he was the lesser of two evils,some voted for him to see history being made of electing a man of color to the most powerful postion in the world.
Whatever the reason you voted for President Obama it's not ok if  you don't understand the first rule of politics,"the squeaky wheel gets the oil'!
Many in my community don't understand this concept,thats why on the local level our neighborhoods are the last to receive any type of city,county or state attention or monies.
President Obama knows and understands what's going on in poor communities throughout this country.
I personally feels he is a very compassionate man.
It's simply the reality of politics in this country that keeps him from doing more for the poor in this country.
The media and talking heads along with the Corporations in this country have convinced a lot of people who could do more for the downtrodden in this society that they are not worthy of a decent life.
This ideal of unworthiness is so strong that many poor people  believe this lie!
And because we don't read or study the things we need to read and study in our communities,it's so easy for the above mention forces to manipulate us.
It's high time that poor people start to look at this process called life in a different manner,it's time  we start to eliminate people,places and things that keep us from seeing the forest for the trees.
President Obama is not the reason we poor people are where we are today in this country,we are where we are because of the choices we have made in our lives!
75% of the problems that affect our lives today is not because of oppression from someone else,it's because we have brought into this consumerism lie of what I need to make me whole as a person!
I submit that we don't need the latest gadgets that seems to be introduce daily to the masses,I don't need a big fancy car to make a statement about who I am.
I submit that clothes are another problem poor people have that we don't have to have,what a lot of poor people don't know or understand is you can have all of the name brands on your back,but you still are broke and poor as a  person.
                                                                           Bigmac

Y'all Just Need To Stop!

Stop the thinking that you are not beautiful,my jaw almost dropped yesterday after hearing a co-worker exclaim that her hair wasn't acceptable to her.
She went on telling a fellow worker that she need to put a perm in her hair to make herself feel better about herself.
Even though I wasn't directly in this conversation I was only 7 feet from it so I couldn't miss what was being said.
As a man I feel responsibility to tell these young people I work with the truth,I was in form yesterday and just lit a fire and brimstone sermon on those two young ladies.
Why is it that we hate what God has given us as a people,?There is nothing wrong with the texture of the hair God created for Black people!
Why is it that we got to put chemicals and fake hair on our heads to feel whole as a person.
Madison Ave. has done a job on Black people that I feel will take four hundred years  to erase,the self hate is so deep,that the devil stays away,because there's nothing left for him to do!
He just sits back in the form of other people laughing and raking in profits from all the things we purchase to make ourselves look like what Madison Ave says is beautiful!
                                                                                               Bigmac

HO,HO,HO

It's that time of the year again folks when everyone is out and about shopping for gifts and other items of the season,unless of course you are among those four million Americans who's unemployment checks  ran out last week.
I can't remember a Christmas when I was young that was memorable,you know the one that sticks out in your mind and brings smiles of joy.
So as an adult I don't really get all that worked up about Christmas and all the celebration trimming that comes with it.
 I  don't go out of my way to spoil the season for the people who I love and care about..
So yes it's easy to blame  others and the commercialization of Christmas as a reason for me as an adult not to celebrate christmas.
But that is not the real reason I don't celebrate christmas today,the reason I believe is because I'm bankrupt spiritually on what christmas mean.
I can't continue to use my poverty of youth as the reason why anything in my life is the way it is today.
The pity pot syndrome is not the way to go for me today,what happen fifty years ago is over!
Listen I'm responsible for everything that goes on in my life,I can't just take the bull by the horns in selected situations.
This ship I'm on called my life is govern by my decisons today and I must make the correct ones in both actions and planning.
                                                                            Bigmac

Wesley Snipes Comes To Pennsylvania

Not to make any of his block buster movies,but to do three years of  federal prison time,given to him for tax evasion.
Mr. Snipes I'm the last fellow in the world who wants to pay taxes on the little bit of money that I make.
But it's my civil duty to help pay for the freedoms and other government programs that help this society function.
Ok I'll stop waving the flag and singing the national anthem,but anyway you slice it or dice it taxes and death you can't escape.
It's not that Mr.Snipes couldn't afford to pay taxes on his monies earned,it's a attitude of entitlement one where he felt that he could have his cake and eat it also.
Just as I noted in a post a few weeks back concerning Congressman Charles Rangel's sudden lost of memory of who he was,I believe Mr.Snipes really started to believe he was as bad as some of the bad ass characters he played in many of his movies.
I'm not one to kick a person when he or she is down,so let me just welcome Mr. Snipes to the "Keystone State" and wish him well  while doing his three years standing on his head!
                                                                                          Bigmac

Any One Have A Mountain For Sale?

I'm getting so sick of the behavior of people that I'm  thinking about finding me a private mountain top and moving there.
I really have had it up to my neck with the rudeness and disrespect shown by people I have encountered lately.
Listen folks I know people are hurting financially and emotionally out here,but the rudeness and disrespect will not change your circumstances.
Maybe this rudeness is not by happenstance but a design play to rid this society of certain groups or types of people.
Do we ever stop to think why certain types of behavior is occurring among a group of people?
And when we start to look closer at the picture we find so many of the circumstance's similar.
Hell if I can see this why can't the people with advance degrees and knowledge see it?
Where is the leadership in this society?
Seems to me most are to busy lining their pockets with money and fame and have forgotten what their duties are as leaders.
While watching the news of President Obama's secret trip to Afghanistan to save it's people from killing and maining each other,the local news here in Pittsburgh is the same Pokey and Ray-Ray were running down Frankstown Road shooting at each other.
Houston we have a problem and it's not 8,000 miles away from Washington,Mr.President why are you not on the corner pleading for peace on the Franktown Roads of America?
                                                                                              Bigmac

Just How Rude Are We As A Society?

Is it me or has civility gone out the back door in this society?
I mean what's up with the rudeness that we endure daily while we work,shop and play?
While growing up in the late 1950's and 60's I can't remember people in my neighborhood being as uncivil as my neighbors are presently.
Everyone knew just about everyone on their block or street and would always say hello or good morning .
 But in today's world ,it seems to me that people go out of their way  not to interact with you.
I read an article in the New York Times recently on this subject and some of the reasons given  for the up tick in rudeness were,anonymity,stress,lack of time,lack of restraint and insecurity.
What are your thoughts on this question of mine?
                                                                           Bigmac

Thanksgiving Should Be Everyday Of Your Life!

It has been said to me on more then one occasion,that I will spoil the spirit of the season by making my opinion on holidays we celebrate in this country known.
Every year for as long as I can remember about this time of the year when it gets cold,it seems everyone and their mother wants to make sure the homeless and the downtrodden have a coat to wear.
Well what about the others months of the year,does it matter ?
Why is it  this time of the year we all want to go and feed Skippy and Ray-Ray who's been on the corner drinking Wild Irish Rose all year?
Let me be short and frank,the brand of humanity practiced in this country is so fake,even Stevie Wonder can see through the hypocrisy.
Even feeding the hungry and the poor is a money making operation in most places in this country,if its not a direct money making scheme it's one to get you to join a church or organization before they feed your behind!
And when you are hungry and cold and have a few young ones in tow,well you do what you got to do to get them feeded and clothed.
For poor people here in Pittsburgh to receive help with your gas and electric bills during the winter season they make you jump through so many hoops you think you are trying out for a NBA team.
But they advertise this program like they are Jesus standing on the mount coming to save your behind!
These do good er organizations and government agencies need to stop all this feed and clothed people once a year crap!
They need to take all that good money and start to teach these people how to become self-reliant,and the reason they won't do that is because that would put their behinds out of business.
One organization that I use to give to up until a few weeks ago(Salvation Army) are the biggest gangsters in  this keep your broke and dumb game.
I found out that the people who are enrolled in their rehabilitation programs,get nothing for the labor and work that they do,which includes working in their rehab centers,driving trucks picking up donations and all the other work done in the organization.
Modern day slaves if you ask me,and all of this is done in the name of the lord!
Everyday should be Thanksgiving and Christmas all rolled up into one,we should be caring about Skippy and his boys down on the corner everyday.
We should be caring about the elderly and young who don't know no better everyday,we all need to stop pretending that we care!
Because if we really cared like we want people to think we care,there wouldn't be as many people in bad shape like they are.
So it's time to wake up and put your money where your mouth is,what would Jesus say if he was to knock on our doors for a honest reconciliation of your goodness?
I know my list would be incomplete and short.
                                                                                   Bigmac

Learning To Keep My Mouth Shut

Ok I know this will sound a little arrogant but I'm a very knowledgeable person on a lot subjects.
I  remember when I was a kid some of the people who I ran with use to say I had the gift of gab.
That gift of gab has been a blessing and a determent to me throughout my life.
Every new day brings a understanding that my gift of gab  is from God and should be treated with reverence.
One  shortcoming of mine is not listening to what others have to say with both ears.
Oh I  hear bits and pieces of what you are saying to me, once I think I got your premise my mouth and thoughts are off to the races,that's something that needs to be corrected.
I have had the privilege of having conversations  with people who are smarter and more knowledgeable then me, because of my desire to control and win and be seen as all that and a bag of chips ,I missed a lot of wisdom they had for me.
It dawn on me a few weeks ago when I encountered a older gentleman who started a conversation  on  spirituality,that it's not always necessary for me to add my two cents to every thing someone wants to part to me.
I don't remember the exact words today that the man said to me then,but I do remember they were profound at the moment and it was like God just came down and put some duck tape over my mouth  so  I could really hear what was being said,without me adding my commentary.
Oh I just love for people to know that I know just as much or more about the subject at hand or what is being discussed.
The who,what and where of that insecurity  that exist in me is something God and I are working on daily.
Often throughout the day I ask God for clarity and wisdom for the right words for  every  situations I may encounter.
I will share with you some of my thoughts on why the gift of gab can work for and against someone like me.
I see  others throughout the day engage in behavior or thinking that I know will lead them  down a road that is dark and unproductive for their lives.
Often I say nothing too many because I know they won't hear me for  many reasons.
But I do know deep down inside as a African-American Male in this country this society don't expect or want  clarity or wisdom coming out of me.
Honor and integerity coming from a African-American Male in this society is a oxymoron for many.
Maybe that's why I fight so hard to be heard and understood!
But there is a place for humbleness in my life and ,I'm going to  let it come into fruition despite the odds and other peoples expectations.
                                                                      Bigmac

It's Time For Charlie Rangel Too Say Goodnight!

Rep.Charlie Rangel has finally had reality thrown in his face after 40 years of representing Harlem
New York as it's Congressman,Mr.Rangel was stripped of all of his power and prestige earlier this week,and kicked to the curb and remanded back to the fields.
Rep.Rangel was accuse of thirteen counts of misconduct as a sitting member of Congress,some of the charges he was convicted of includes not paying taxes on property he owns,taking donations from people and corporations who had business before the powerful House,Ways and Means Committee that he chaired.
Now before some of you get on your soapbox and exclaim that all politicians do the same thing as what Rep.Rangel has been charged and convicted of,let me agree with you.
The difference is Mr.Rangel seems to have forgotten that he is a African-American and that the standards  that apply to White politicians in good standing don't apply to him.
Lets be real here folks racism and discrimination is alive and well in our country today,you can't make a law and change people hearts.
Mr.Rangel was so consumed with the power of his chairmanship,he actually thought he had assimilated into the American dream.
Instead of using that power to bring jobs and renewal to Harlem,Congressman Rangel was too busy playing a game in Washington that he truly didn't understand.
It's time for the people of Harlem to elect someone who's character and commitment to the community is above reproach.
Now that maybe a pipe dream on my part,but I think having leadership of that quality is a pipe dream I'll keep dreaming!
                                                                  Bigmac

I'm So Sick And Tired Of Tyler And Folks Of His Ilk

I had no intentions of writing about Tyler Perry this morning but after reading a post from over at one of my favorite blogspots(Imross-moanerplicities.blogspot.com) the steam just welled up in me.
How much more money does this NEED-TO-GROW need to make off of the misery of other peoples lives?
Some of the posts and comments that I have read this past week really got me to thinking,some comments were written in a fashion  not wanting to come off as hating on Tyler Perry,others were done  in a diplomatic way as not to be offensive but to also express displeasure at his latest work.
I'm not going to hold back on this one folks,because I'm simply tired of Tyler Perry,Oprah and all of the other sell-outs pimping my community.
Both Tyler and Oprah have made enough money to do better by our community.
Don't misunderstand me and think I'm advocating  for hiding the dirt and filth of some of my fellow black men.
If Tyler and Oprah really wanted to get this monkey off the backs of the Women in our community,they should both put their dam money where their mouth is.
It's hard enough already as a black man to go out here in this world and try to make a dam honest living.
Without some "House Negro" stereotyping my life any further.
Sorry folks I won't watch another Tyler Perry or Oprah sponsored or financed production again until both of them clean up their acts!
                                                                   Bigmac

Intergration and the downfall of the Black Community

Most people I talk with now days don't seem to get the connection of integration and the disappearance of the black community.
Black folks don't have communities anymore,we just have neighborhoods where we are push into and exist.
Some of us  don't own anything in our neighborhood except for a few folk who were lucky enough to get a mortgage,that is now under water.(Mortgage is more then the house is worth).
Before integration we had everything we needed to live and survive in this country,from school systems to supermarkets,at least in Baltimore where I grew up.
And from what I have learned about the Black Community of Pittsburgh before integration it was the envy of the Black communities in the mid-west.
So here's what I think has happen when legal segregation was ended in this country, it allowed Black folk to do some of the things White folks had always been able to do, and we went hog wild crazy!
We started to abandon the communities that served us for generations for the house in the suburbs or in the white neighborhoods.
We were offered a MasterCard and charge account at Macy's and  that completed the trip to madness ville
for us.
Many of us began to think that if White folks said it was alright to do or buy we agreed and brought it also because we believed we were on the road to the American dream.
We abandoned the neighborhoods and the schools and colleges that had served our community well for the University that had been off limited to us.
Today the HBCUs that have  given our community the leadership and professionals for  generations are not on the radar of most black youths coming out of high school.
I have talked to many young black kids here in Pittsburgh,along with their parents and always asked them where are they planning on going to college.
Most say Pitt or some other school here in state,none seem to have a clue about the existence of the Howard,or Fisk Universities.
I'm curious as to how others feel about some of the points I have made.
                                                                       Big mac

The Mis-education Of Our Children

The article below is a reprint from a local blog site I often read,called Pittsburgh's Future.
read and let me know your feeling on its contents.
                                                            Bigmac



Our Children Aren’t Ready for the Jobs of the Future

As the nation’s economy struggles to recover from the recession, how is our region doing in preparing children to compete for the jobs of the future?



Not very well, unfortunately. State test scores for 2010 show that over one-fourth (28%) of our 11th graders can’t read adequately and more than one-third (37%) aren’t proficient in mathematics. That means southwestern Pennsylvania schools are sending nearly 10,000 young people into the workforce every year without the minimum skills they need to compete for the jobs of the future.



It’s not just the high schools that are failing. The problem starts all the way back in elementary school. Nearly one-third (32%) of the fifth graders in the region can’t read at grade level, and nearly one-fourth (22%) aren’t proficient in math.



No business could survive if a third of its products were defective. Our region can’t expect to succeed, either, if 30% of our workforce lacks basic skills.



If you think this isn’t a problem in your local schools, think again. Only one high school in the entire region (Upper St. Clair) had 90% or more of its 11th graders proficient in both mathematics and reading, and only 11 of the region’s 319 elementary/middle schools had 90% or more of their 5th graders proficient in both mathematics and reading.



In fact, if we graded schools the way they grade kids, more than half of the elementary schools in the region would get a “D,” “E,” or “F,” and nearly three-fourths of the high schools would get a “D” or worse. (If you’d like to see your local schools’ grades, go to www.pittsburghfuture.com/schoolgrades.html.)



Although news media tend to focus on the Pittsburgh Public Schools because of its size, fewer than 10% of the non-proficient students in the region are from the City of Pittsburgh. Most of the problem is in the other 123 school districts, and we won’t have a competitive workforce unless every school district improves.



The problem is getting worse, not better. Fewer than one-fourth of the elementary schools in the region improved student proficiency in both reading and math between 2009 and 2010, while one-third did worse on both reading and math proficiency.



Wait a minute, though – didn’t the state Department of Education say that most schools were making “adequate yearly progress” (AYP) according to federal standards? Yes, but AYP is not a standard that any school should be proud to achieve. A school can have over a third of its students (37%) failing in reading and nearly half (44%) failing in math and still be labeled as making “adequate yearly progress” under federal standards. (See http://paayp.emetric.net/ for more information.)



As bad as the overall performance of our education system is, it’s far worse for African-American students. In 2010, over half (59%) of the African-American 11th graders couldn’t read adequately, and more than two-thirds (70%) weren’t proficient in math. Here again, this is not just a City of Pittsburgh problem – two-thirds of the non-proficient African American students are in high schools outside of the City of Pittsburgh.



Educators often claim that low proficiency scores should be excused in schools that have large numbers of economically disadvantaged students or disabled children. But in the majority of schools, 25% or more of the non-disadvantaged, non-disabled 5th graders can’t read adequately, and 20% or more aren’t proficient in math.



The problem isn’t lack of money. Some of the best performing schools in the region are in districts that spend below-average amounts. For example, in the Beaver Area School District, more than 90% of the fifth graders were proficient in both reading and mathematics (the best performance in the region), but the district spent only $6,260 per student in 2008-09, 16% below the regional average. In contrast, in the Quaker Valley School District, which spent $10,734 per student (the highest spending in the region and 44% higher than the regional average), only 78% of the 5th graders were proficient in reading.



It’s time to declare that “adequate yearly progress” isn’t adequate, and to demand that schools dramatically improve their students’ proficiency with the resources they already have. Although Presidents, Congressmen, Governors, and State Legislators all talk about improving education, it’s the more than 1,110 elected school board members in the region who actually control how nearly $5 billion in tax monies are spent to educate the 350,000 children in the region. Half of these school board members are up for election next year (2011). Typically, there is little competition for these positions, and most incumbents are re-elected. If you’re unhappy with your school district’s performance, now is the time to think about recruiting new candidates who are committed to dramatically improving performance. Information on how to run for a school board seat is available at www.psba.org/parents-public/board-candidates/how-to-run.asp.

When Does Your Life Become Important

Is it when we become seriously ill with some disease that John Hopkins can't cure?
Is it when a love one or family member we adored has passed this life?
I find myself at 58 years old still smoking cigarettes,I know intellecually that they bring no good to my life.
I could blame the manufactures of cigarettes for my situation and in a big way they are for the lies they have told me and the millions of people that are hooked on cigarettes.
But at this point in my life I KNOW that in order for me to rid my self of this addiction I'll NEED  the courage to put on my big boy pants and face the music of withdrawal.
For the past month or so just to see the economic side of this habit for every pack of cigarettes that we normally purchase we put it in a saving account.
The amount of money was mind blowing lets just  say you could pay a small mortgage with it.
With my recent birthdate I made a pledge to start doing the right things for my life and others in it and smoking has now moved to the top of the list of things to get rid of!
Smoking is truely a nasty and dirty way of life and to tell the truth I can't stand my own dam self sometimes with this habit.
                                                                                              Bigmac

Why is it hard for some folk to ask for help?

I guess I should know the answer to my own question,because I'm still  reluctant to ask for help in so many areas of my own life.
I guess the question comes to mind for me from observing others throughout the day who do just that,refuse to ask for directions or for help.
Funny thing is most of these situations are not life threatening situations,but for many of us it's a matter of not wanting to be seen as weak or dumb.
I even think that some of us have degrees of not asking for help,I for one notice this character trait more simple because I need to work on my own.
I think if I spent more time focus on my own shortcoming,I wouldn't have time to see yours.
Funny isn't that the things that tick us off about others is some how connected to our own little lives!
                                                                         Bigmac

So Just How Do You Celebrate

Well it's my birthdate folks and I don't want no party or pats on the back,I won't even take a toast for living on this earth for now 58 years.
I owe my being here on this earth to the god I believe in today,don't think for one second that I always believe that statement.
There was a time when the rule of the day was a shot of rum and coke and a tote on a self-rolled cigarette was the way to celebrate my birth date.
I believe that my god has put me right where he needs me,I would like to say that I have completly surrendered my will to god's will,but that would be a bald-face lie.
I struggle with surrending my will,simply because I want to still be in-charge of my life.
Intellectually I know I don't run my life,I just mess up my purpose of life by simply refusing to turn my life over to god's will.
So today I make a  pledge to fight the temptation to run my life and let gods will be done.
                                                                  Bigmac

Stop having babies you can't afford!

As I look around my community I see so many babies being raised by babies,or shall I say being carried around by babies.
Because from where I sit these babies are not being raised at all,they are just existing and some of them are not even getting the basics to sustain themselves in this difficult and changing world.
I want to scream sometimes when I see parents or a parent degrading a child for being a child,I want to scream when I see a parent or parents feeding their child junk food from a fast food outlet.
I see parents who will come into the store and buy things for themselves but tell the child with them that they can't afford to get them a loli-pop,what's up with that type of selfiness?
Just because you can have a baby don't mean you should have one,a lot of young people today would do well to either not engage in the act where they may have a child or would do well to practice birth control.
Many people who look like me have not a clue as to how the world inwhich they live in really operates.
Many depend on the media in all of it's forms to depict a life style and image for themselves.
I work with people who would prefer to remain on government assistance then to fend for themselves,simply because that's all they understand and it's easier.
I don't understand the men in my community today,many have sadly laid down the armor that their god have given them to be the protectors of their communities.
Many of the men in my community would prefer  image over substance today,because it's easier,leadership comes with a heavy toll.
Not many in my community are prepared or willing to do what I call the dirty work of this life,that being tolling and working to support the children we have brought into this world.
Many have just rolled over and have  accepted what the TV or other forms of media has said is how you are suppose to act and carry your self in this world.
When I see parents or a parent more concern about the car they drive or the clothes they wear then the welfare of their child I cringe and want to scream!
If I could make a law right today in this country,the law would make it so hard for you to have a baby,abortion would be the rule of law if you had no understanding of parenthood.
Before you could become a parent you would be required to attend parenting classes and fully grasp the reality of parenting.
Now many would ask me have I lost grip of reality by saying the things above?
No,but have anyone else a answer for the problem of babies having babies in my community?
                                                                               Bigmac

Check out this site

wwwurblogging.blogspot.com
                                                                             Bigmac

Should Some People Be Locked Up Forever?

Lets be honest in our community(Black Community) we allow people who are criminals to run freely,we know Pookey and Ray-Ray are breaking into people homes and stealing and robbing,but we still put up with their behavior!
Some of my Blogger friends will quickley dismiss my thoughts on this subject as brainwashing by the mainstream media.
But I will insist the brainwashing is a belief that we shouldn't tell on them,well let me be frank I work too hard  for my money and stuff for some lowlife( and thats what you are if you steal from a neighbor) to break-in my place while I'm busting my behind for minimum wages.
A few days ago a neighborhood kid  and his little gang of misfits finally got busted bigtime for some type of criminal activity.
Because I don't know what they were finally hauled off to the pokey for I won't say,but I do know that these little lowlifes have broken into other homes in the neighborhood and gotten away with it simple because no one would speak up and tell what they know.
If anything good has come out of them being behind bars is we can now go to work knowing five no good punks are where they belong!
                                                                                   Bigmac

Protecting Our Children

How many of you have children that you think are out of control or have issues?
Many parents have resorted to taking the advice of "professionals" and have allowed them to be medicated because of "behavior issues".
The commericals of pharmaceutical company's have did their job of convincing doctors and the public that if we think we have a problem of any kind there is a pill out here that can fix it.
Too many of us  have laid down our responsibilities to our children and families.
We have taken to letting society decide what's best for our children,we don't go to school board meeting,PTA meetings or take interest in the friends or likes or dislikes of our children.
I'm afraid for the future of our children and culture and feel if enough folk don't get up off the couch,our days as a people are numbered!
                                                                           Bigmac

Beauty and Black Folk

It's Sept.2010 and as a culture we are still fighting this notion of what is beautiful and what's not.
I still hear people use terms like good hair and high yellow and red bone,to discribe themselves or others.
That tells me that we as a culture still have a long way to go in understanding our history.
 The real secret to this life is not what grade of hair or what hue our skin is but,what's in our hearts.
                                                                   Bigmac

Judge and be judged

That was a question on my mine yesterday judging other folks.so I asked a few co-workers what judging others was to them.
One response was on the money as to where I want to be in my life but I'm not there yet.
His response was that we are not to judge others because we don't know where that person may have come from or the situations that may have occured in that person life.
Lord knows I don't know why it's so hard for me to just let others be,I guess my own experiences say you don't have to be where or what you are.
                                                                     Bigmac

No I didn't play pro basketball!

Sometimes the streotypes of life just catch me at some bad moments,I'm 6'5 250 pounds and I have been use to the questions from strangers just about all of my adult life,did you play pro ball of one type or the other.
But this morning the question from a old White lady at the park this morning just brought back all of the strerotypes I rail against daily in my life.
As Valerie and I made our way around the oval park track this lady walks up from behind and says "I know you played basketball" first I was shocked and lost for a response.
I didn't expect the question,look I'm 57 almost 58 years old and what makes people think that I had to be a pro ball player?
Why couldn't the question be I know you must have been a good brain surgeon?
Ok folks I'm not naive about who Iam or where I live or what the history of America is and still is.
But dam,would y'all cut this brother some slack and if you just want to speak to me just say good morning and stop assuming!
                                                                     Bigmac

Something is in South Carolina's Water

And it's not only dirt and chemicals but the bodies of two little black baby boys.
It seems to me again we take on the wrong ideals from others in this society (Susan Smith,Union,SC),when the hard reality of life is upon us.
Here is a link to the story:Mother in custody after 2 children found dead in submerged car - http://www.cnn.com/


                                                               Bigmac

Coming Correct

I can't come casual anymore about anything in my life,which doesn't mean I'm on stand up guard 24-7.
With so many Black folk I know the seriousness of life is taken like a grain of salt.
So I reserve my softer side of life for the folk who understand me.
So many young people that I encounter daily are on a straight path to a early grave.
Many have not a clue of the deadly path they are following,
from extreme promiscuity,to living a madeup thug life of supposely keeping it real.
Babies having babies,older men impregnating younger women,families in a whirlwind of dysfunctionally,never seen in my life time.
So folks If I don't come correct,then who will?
                                                                                Bigmac

Tiger Woods

I think the real world has begun to envelope Tiger Woods,the man hasn't won any major golf outing since his return to the circuit.
I have my thoughts as what maybe going through his head.
But I won't say at this time,I'll just say a little prayer for him.
Just goes to show you money can't buy you peace of mind!
                                                                             Bigmac

The Truth and Nothing But the Truth

I know for some of you out here in cyberspace being truthful about your every dealing is not a issue.
But for me it's like a climax when I discover I have not been completly honest about what I have been doing in my daily living.
 For many the issue  maybe small,but for me dishonest is dishonest!
When a dishonest moment occurs for me nowdays,I can't just simply write it off.
You see that what been my problem as a human being writing off the little white lies of my life.
                                                              Bigmac

The Corruption and inconsistencies of living

A few of my blogger friends have taken time out of their busy day to respone to my post "Negro Please" and I thank each one of you for doing so.
Your responses has generated another post,inwhich I simply asked are there matters of everyday living that we give a pass too,but on other we are ready to throw the book at others.
I commented in my previous post that Congresspersons Waters and Rangel should resign and come clean about the ethics charges layed against them.
Serveral of the responses questioned if the charges were no more then a witch hunt,my natural response is if my hands are clean,how do people connect me to theses charges?
                                                                                             Bigmac

Negro Please!

I have always like Congresswoman Maxine Waters of California,but for the past few days I have chuckled at the fact shes been caught with her hand in the Federal cookie jar.
Congresswoman Waters represents areas such as Watts and Compton and for her to have steered Federal money into the bank her husband sits on the board of directors is well,ashame.
I enjoyed the image of the tiredless advocate for the poor she projected,but no more,Maxine has been exposed and now she is crying foul.
Sorry Congresswoman,but you and Congressman Rangel of New York need to go!
                                                                               Bigmac

Spiritual and Religious Charlatans in My Community

I love and  appreciate the religious and spiritual training I recieved as a child growing up, Southern Black Baptist,  straight out of the tobacco fields of Southeastern North Carolina.
I remember the church services of my youth in the small country churches in the  quietness of Brunswick County,NC.
I remember the powerful preachers that traveled the county to hold services at the small churches throughout the county.
When my parents migrated north to Baltimore in the late 1950's they brought that same culture with them to the big city.
So when I think  of the Black Church my ideal and memory are those of my youth,that church now has a crack in it's foundation.
As I travel the streets of Black Pittsburgh every morning at 5am,the hope for the future looks dim.
Most of the people I see don't seem to know which way is up or down!

I pass the women on the corners selling their bodies to the first car that stops.
I pass the drug dealer peddling his or her wares with Pittsburgh's men and women in blue ignoring it all.
I pass at least ten churchs out of my community on my way to work and all of them are closed except for Sunday morning.
Some are monster size churchs with thousands of members,other are small store front churchs with as few as twenty members,but they are all closed.
The Black Minister was the backbone of my community and I want to still see him as that.
The real world tells me that day and time has passed me by and it's time to get real about the church I love so much.
What is it about a man or woman who would take a title such as preacher and use that postion to pimp and exploit the very people you are charged to direct?
                                                                                       Bigmac

Blogging While Pretending To Be Black

What is it about some Black Bloggers out here,even though some of us are of different ideologies,what's with the blatant disrespect for anothers opinion?
Why does it seem some of us have not learned that no matter what your postion is in this american society,that you still carry a responsibility to respect yourself and others.
When has it become so fashionably to slam other black people,who may be ignorant of situations?
Have we forgotten our history,because we now may have a house with a white picket fence in the burbs?
Have we forgotten that just a few short decades ago the men and women who died so your black behind could live comfortable in those burbs?
Just where has empathy gone out of our lives?

Self Marginalization,It's Time To Stop?

There was a time in my life when I could wake up and pretty much expect White folk to bring hell to my life each and everyday.
Don't get it twisted and think for one second that I'm saying we live in a post racial America.
What I'm saying is that racism and oppression has gone undercover,almost like that CIA cloak and dagger stuff.
"Randy-Redneck" is not openly advocating my demise by hanging,he does it through the Legal System and Madison Ave.
He (Randy-Redneck)convince many of our people that the easy way is the best way to make a life here in America.
Too many of us get caught up in illegal activities and end up involved with the criminal justice system.
Let me make it clear a lot of activities that are criminal are only enforced in Black and Brown neighborhoods.
Do you folks who are involved in illegal activities think for one second that the law doesn't know what you are doing and how you are doing it?
You get all comfortable in your new found wealth and lifestyle then they bust your Black or brown ass!
Make no mistake about it folks someone is always watching you,the game is rigged from the door.
Once you are in the system your life is pretty much over as far as getting a real good and stable job.
Oh yea your ass will be paying that debt to society until the grim reaper bites your ass.
You can bet your ass you will do your time,standing on your head or not,and when they finally open those steel bars and let you back out,you still got a hundred years of probation and parole hanging on your behind!
Because of the way the system is design they already know you will be back in six to eight months,hence the paper hanging on your back.
People change considerably when they are locked up,many lose any sense of man hood or self-respect.
Many go undercover sexually and come out more confused and diseased then when they were locked up.
With many of these sad stories played out in our communities daily,we still allow our children to run buck-naked wild in this  world.
Men it's time we stop,being prim and prissy about whats happening in our neighborhoods,its time we roll up our sleeves and begin to clean our houses.
Men its time we start to take charge of our children and wives and girlfriends,if its possiable.
Even if your relationship can't be save with the mother of your children you still have a moral responsibility to raise your children.
If you have to work two or three different jobs to make this happen you are obligated to do so.
Not because some damn redneck judge said so, but because thats your blood!
                                                                     Bigmac

It's about time I post again

I have not posted anything to this blog in fourteen days,not because I didn't have a topic but because I just don't want to post just anything for the sake of posting.
There is too much going on in this world to be willie nilly about posting.
I don't really care about who's dating who in Hollywood,but I do care about the predators that are walking everyday in my community.
I'am concern and pissed about the older men who impregnate teen girls and leave them to fin with babies with no support.
I'am concern and pissed with family members of these teen girls who do nothing about these predators and allow them to continue to walk the streets of my community and ruin other teen girls lives.
I'am concern and pissed when the law is not concern or cares to what happens with these teen girls in my commmunity.
I'am concern and pissed when the Church's in my community don't rise up and address theses concerns and problem.
I also wonder where has the backbone of the men in my community gone,why are we afraid to get our hands dirty and clean up the mess that is affecting our community and future.
Are there any Men left with a Spine in my community or have they all punked out?
                                                                        Bigmac

Michael Vick Stuck On Stupid!

: Eagles may cut Michael Vick

By ROB MAADDI

AP Sports Writer

Posted: Saturday, Jul. 03, 2010

PHILADELPHIA:  A person familiar with the team's thinking says the Philadelphia Eagles are strongly considering releasing Michael Vick.



The person says the team might cut Vick no matter what police conclude during their investigation of a shooting that followed the quarterback's birthday celebration in Virginia Beach last week. The person spoke to The Associated Press early Saturday on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.



The Eagles issued a statement Saturday saying "any report or speculation that suggests the Eagles are considering releasing Vick are not true. We will continue to gather information and monitor the situation and we will not have any further comment until that process is complete."



Vick has said he had nothing to do with the shooting. He also said he reported the incident to the Eagles and to the NFL. Commissioner Roger Goodell told the former Atlanta Falcons star after reinstating him last season that his margin for error was "extremely limited."



Vick is entering his second season with the Eagles and is due to earn $5.2 million. A three-time Pro Bowl pick, Vick is Kevin Kolb's backup and the most experienced quarterback on the roster following the trade of Donovan McNabb.



The Eagles were heavily criticized by animal rights activists and fans for signing Vick last summer less than a month after he finished serving 18 months in federal prison for his role in a dogfighting operation.



Team owner Jeffrey Lurie called Vick's actions "horrific" and "despicable." He said he did serious "soul-searching" before agreeing to sign him.



Vick was a model citizen off the field and in the locker room during his first season with the Eagles. He was popular among his teammates, who voted him winner of the Ed Block Courage Award.



But this latest incident could end up costing Vick his job, even if he's exonerated of any wrongdoing.



Vick was expected to play a major role in Philadelphia's offense running the wildcat formation. Instead, he was used sparingly. Vick completed 6 of 13 passes for 86 yards and one touchdown and ran for 95 yards and two scores. He tossed a 76-yard TD pass in a 34-14 loss to Dallas in the playoffs.

A Black Man Who's Angry And Knows Why! Part 3

I'm mad and disgusted with the leadership that presently pimps it's self as the answer to our community's problems.
I'm disgusted with our Politicans,Teachers and most of all I'm disgusted with most of our Spiritual and Religious "Leaders".
Our politicans for not fighting like warriors for the State and Federal monies out there for the betterment of the neighborhoods they represent.
Most when elected forget the promises made and start to enrich themselves, their close friends and families.
The sad part about it all is we don't hold our politicans feet to the fire to bring the bacon home to our neighborhoods.
Most people in our neighborhoods,have a defeatist attitude toward the out come of the politicans who represent our neighborhoods,so in turn the politicans does what he or she pleases without consequence.
Our Teachers have no respect for the education of our Black and Brown youths,the expectation from our youths is zero and going down,it's not completly the teachers and School Boards  fault  for this level of expectation,it's hard to know what type of education your child is receiving when you are not engaged in their education.
I have seen parents who spend more time in the bars and clubs here in Pittsburgh,then in mentoring their children.
So when a child have not a clue as to the value of  a education,they bring nothing to the table for a teacher to work with.
The reality of teaching and Public Education today in the words of the great R and B singer Billy Preston "Nothing from Nothing Leaves Nothing".
Unlike when I was attending segregated schools in the late 1950's and 1960's the teachers lived in the same neighborhood and went to the same Churchs and Stores as my family.
So there was a expection from each and every child and family to do your best,that closeness is lost to many Black and Brown children today.
Most School Boards in a lot of Urban Centers are no more then stepping stones for higher political office,if you really look closer,most don't even have educators on the boards,again "nothing from nothing leave nothing.
In the coming days and weeks this theme will continue on this blog,stay tune.
                                                                                    Bigmac

A Black Man Who's Angry And Knows Why! Part 2

Sometimes the truth hurts and we like to divert from it's reality,we have many different ways of escaping those realities.
But escaping must soon come to a halt if we truly desire to live our lives in harmony.
If we think smoking a blunt or taking a shot or two of Old Granddad is our solution,I'm here to tell you that it will only delay the truth of the matter.
Our communities (black and brown) are saturated with ads for alcohol,tobacco and cars we can't afford.
But we still can't see the trick in all of these thing slapped in our faces,many of us base our worth as a person on how many or what type of these things we have in our possession.
And that's another reason I'm a angry Blackman,my folk being pimped and we can't see it!
Stay tune I'll continue this theme over the days and weeks.
                                                                                                  Bigmac

A Black Man Who's Angry And Knows Why! Part 1

There has been a lot of talk lately about President Obama not being angry enough about the BP Oil Spill and other issues that his administration have had to face.
There has been supporters of President Obama such as myself who have not been restrain from saying what I truly feel about a issue.
That doesn't mean that I don't support or love the brother,it means that I'm  at a point in my life that I won't sugarcoat my feeling.
I also understand there are a lot of people who are not at that point in their lives,so I do temper my response to some people for that reason.
I still tell those folks the truth,I just break it to them gently,so they can see what I'm talking about in their mind.
As I go about my daily life I deal with a lot of different people and have to adjust my brain for a lot of different mindsets,from the corn-fed racist redneck,to the corn-fed everyday black person who have not a clue what America is about.
I have learned to focus on one thing about a person and understand that one thing,at the same time listen carefully to what they are saying.
I find that most people just want to be safe,happy and to be able to go buy a six-pack on friday night.
In other words most people are simple,no bells and whistles,no thanksgiving day parade,just let me be.
Most people could care less if President Obama is mad as hell or not,because like I said they just want the basics.
Hence the angry Blackman in me,I want more then the basics for myself and my community,I have started to say community instead of black folks in general,because as Tavis Smiley said a few years back,"all of my skin folk,ain't my kin folk".
I have seen some black folks operate in a way that makes me more angry, then I get  at a out right racist.
Some examples of those kind of black folk are drug dealers,pimps,hoes,violent people who indescribiable hurt others for the dumbest reasons and people who refuse to mentor their children!
 This Post will be continued over a period of time,stay tune!
                                                                             Bigmac

No More Excuses For Stupidity

Some of the responses to my post on the incident in Seattle had me thinking,maybe the reason we have so many problems with our children today is because we are always making an excuse for their behavior!
There is no excuse you can offer me that would justify those two young girls putting their hands on that cop.
Street rule number one,when engage for any reason with a cop,it's alway yes sir,no sir,yes  mam,no mam.
To engage a cop in 2010 in a war of words is suicidal in most urban centers in this country.
Too many people watch too many TV programs and are not engaged in the real world,most cops are scared to death each and everyday when they go out on the streets.
So when you know you are dealing with a scared man or woman,you
take another tact in any engagement.
Now the useless Seattle Branch of the NAACP is getting in the mix calling for the cops head and badage.
What many of you may not know,this is not these two young girls first dance with the law,in their mind and their way of thinking they were "keeping it real"!
Bullshit they were acting like two little thugs and as far as I'm concern,let's treat them like thugs,until they decide they want to join society and act like two ladies!
                                                                                Bigmac

No Love In Seattle

I'm a big fan of videos,they seem  to  tell a part of the story we humans leave out.
I try to call things as I see them,in Seattle we have a clear cut case of teens gone wild with no home training.
We also have a clear cut case of a cop who has issues and should never be allowed to wear a uniform  again,much less a gun.
Everyone involved in this situation was WRONG,the teens for not having the proper training in how to handle their behinds while out in public.
The cop was double wrong for letting his power go to his head,he's the kind of cop who down the road will most likely be on the police killed in action memorial wall.
I don't know of  any city that I have lived in that enforce Jaywalking laws,and even if some do now they  do it with a little more tacit then what was displayed in Seattle.
Every where I have read about this story the comments have been calling for the cop's head and telling the family and friends of the teens to call their local verison of Attorney Johnny Cochran,so they can get paid.
Sorry folks this not a battle I'm willing to fight,yes there was injustice coming from the cop when he punched the teenager and if we are honest she don't look or act like she's the type that's sitting in Sunday School every week.
I'm willing to let the Police Department handle the discipline of this jacklegged officer hoping they move him to permanent desk duty,even though the chance of that happening is 40/60.
Look I'm just as sick of brutes on our police forces as the next guy,but acting like jackasses and fighting cops on GP doesn't cut it with me.
We need to learn that that some of our folk need retraining also!
                                                                                                  Bigmac

The Stigma of Being on the Dole

Since late 2007 there has been a wide increase in the number of people who are recieving some kind of public assistance.(food stamps,unemployment,welfare etc..).
A number of people who now recieve some kind of aid from the government find it hard for their self esteem to realize that they are now part of the welfare system.
Many try to separate themselves from people who have recieving benifits for longer periods of times,by saying they are different from those other people.
I can sometimes tell when the new breed of food stamp folk roll up to my favorite Wal-Mart.
They are usually dressed to the nines and are driving their BMW or Benz,with a look on their face hoping no one will see them that they know.
These are the same people a few years ago who were calling the layed off workers from the steel and textile mills welfare queens and cheats.
                                                                                         Bigmac

Update

Well my stubbornness has finally made a impact on me to change.
Yesterday I went to my foot doctor for a followup visit,he too burst my bubble on returning to work today.
Not only did he declare work off limits,but driving,walking and any use of my foot and leg,but trips to the can.
He also change the medication I was taking to a stronger anti-biotic,so another life lesson in the realm the bigger(EGO) they are, the harder they fall!
                                                                                     Bigmac

President's Speech

I was not impress with the speech from the Oval Office,President Obama didn't tell me anything new last night.
I believe President Obama's approach to issues is a glaring sign of weakness and failure.
I think it's time for the Black side of the President to make it's appearence,because right now he wouldn't make it walking down the street at midnight in the hood!
                                                                                             Bigmac

Great Writers

One of the the things I come to enjoy about the blog world is some of the gifted writers I have run across.
A  blog that I recently discovered (moanerplicities.blogspot.com) is one everyone should   click on and check out.
                                                                                            Bigmac

Getting serious about putting BP out of business!

Now here is some language usage from the past,we the people need to take charge of this BP Oil disaster.
Just seems to me that there is no leadership coming from Washington on this disaster,everyone in Washington from the President to the Congress are scared to rock BP Oil's boat.
So as an informed consumer I will not buy any BP product from this day forward.
Some of you may say,most BP gas stations are mom and pop operations and any boycott would hurt them more then BP.
My view is too bad!
                                                                                 Bigmac

The New War

Well if you thought for one second that one of President Obama's goals was to descalate the two wars our country is involved in,well I have some good news and some bad news.
The good news is the real reason has now been reveled for being in AFGHANISTAN,VAST RICHES OF MINERALS HAS BEEN FOUND IN THIS WAR TORN COUNTRY.
The bad news is we will now have our military in that country for years to come.
Nothing good for the Afghan will come of this discovery,every crook on this side of chilly Jordan will be in that country,this afternoon!
                                                                 Bigmac

Getting Old

It's really hard for me sometimes,particularly when it comes to going to the doctor about ailments.
For the past three weeks my  right foot has been giving me problems and I just plain refuse to go to my doctor or even the ER to find out why it was hurting.
I knew in the back of my head I had a doctors appointment today so I just put my foot issue off until today.
When I went this morning for my yearly exam the doctor jumped on my case like white on rice for me putting my swoolen foot issues on hold for three weeks.
I pride myself on never missing a day of work unless I'm half dead,as a matter of fact I don't like missing work because I simply like what I'm doing most of the time and most of the people I deal with.
But the doctor busted my bubble today and put me on a medication called,Cephalexin and bed rest for five days.
Needless to say Bigmac is not a happy camper!
                                                                                    Bigmac

BP Oil 10 People O

It seems to me that BP Oil has won the public relations battle with this oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico,I have been waiting folks for our President to grow a pair on this issue.
I don't think that is going to happen anytime soon,money talks bullshit eat oily shrimp!
                                                                               Bigmac

Under Construction

If you notice that my blogspot looks a little different it is because of a suggestion from a follower of mine,who notice something was lacking.
So stay tune folks!
                                                                  Bigmac

Hell No To Medical Marijuna

Full disclosure folks,I have smoked weed and I'm still here to see another day,so the issue I have with legalizing marijuna is twofolded.
First we have too many issues with drugs in our community today with out the State of Pennsylvania,allowing another legal drug to invade our community.
Yea I know  illegal weed is right down the street for a price,but just like the bug( before the State Lottery what numbers were called in Baltimore)the state getting in the business doesn't make it right for my community.
So many people that I run into on a daily basis are so stuck on stupid (SOS) from the use of one drug or the other that my community here in Pittsburgh is a walking dead community.
Funny thing about this is the money that will be generated from the sale of legal weed will never see it's  way to my community.
The money is to be used for roads and bridges in Pennsylvania,AND OF COURSE THE ROADS AND BRIDGES IN MY COMMUNITY NEVER MAKE THE LIST FOR REPAIR UNTIL IT'S HALFWAY IN THE RIVER.
So Governor Rendell go pedal your drugs elsewhere,my community needs hope not more dope!
My community needs jobs and leadership,not another  legal pimp and drug dealer,we already have Walgreen and Rite-Aid and poverty doctors pumping us up with enough legal drugs.
                                                                              Bigmac

What about the people killed on the oil rig?

Much has been said about the thousands of  gallons of oil leaking from the oil rig disaster,we all have heard about the millions of dollars in losses to the seafood industry.
But no one is talking about the lost lives of the dozen men and women lost in that disaster.
Just goes to show you that the lives of us worker bees out here is not valued.
My heart felt sorrow go out to the families of these oil rig workers.
                                                                                     Bigmac

Fish and Oil Don't Mix

I grew up eating fresh seafood right off the boats that sailed into and docked in the port of Baltimore,during the late 1950's and 60's.
It was exciting to watch my father bring home a bushel of blue crabs live and cook them in a pot on the stove or to eat a spot or rock fish fresh from the Chesapeake Bay.
I have been paying attention to the state of health to the Chesapeake Bay for the past few years and it's not good folks.
Between overfishing and pollution flowing into the Bay,fishing and crabbing is not what it use to be.
So with the Oil leaking from the BP oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico creeping slowly and closer to the fishing areas of the Gulf,30% of the shrimp consumed in this country is about to become contaminatated with crude oil.
The big shots at BP oil is said to have led every government agency involved with this spill   clean up to believe that they had this spill under control.
The price of seafood will hit the roof in the coming days and BP will try it's best to spin the story as to not make the spill it's problem.
                                                                                            Bigmac

Republicans in Florida gone Mad!

Seems to me the Republicans have lost their minds,Governor Charlie Crist has finally reached the point where even he can't stand the smell coming from his party in Florida.
As some of you may know Governor Crist was running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate and was told to go pound sand by the party power elite.
To my way of thinking Governor Crist was one of the few Republicans who I had any respect for.
I guess the Republican Party is really hell bent on becoming the party of I don't give damn about anyone that is not rich?
                                                                                  Bigmac

It was all about her

I made a trip early this morning to the post office to mail a few letters,there was  other person there  being waited on ,I said oh wow I'm the  next person.
Usually my trip to our local post office is greeted with long slow and indifferent lines,anytime of the year.
The indifference is coming from both customer and postal clerk,most of the time.
This morning it was the customer,after the postal clerk give the customer in front of me what she came for,she stood there for a few mins. more talking about personal things.
 Usually I'm a little patient with the post office service,but this morning I was a little pissed at the arrongance of this woman to continue a personal conversation while I waited in line.
THEN LIKE A GUST OF WIND SHE TURNS AROUND AND SAID TO ME OH SORRY I DIDN'T SEE YOU IN LINE!
I said to her yea like a lot of folks,who don't see me!How in the name of Jesus can she miss my Big Black Behind at 6'5 250 pounds?
At that moment folks I felt like Ralph Ellison's Book "The Invisiable Man".
                                                                                              Bigmac

Crazy World Y'all

A couple days ago,here in Pittsburgh the news was all about a sexual predator football player for the Steelers,while here in the hood where I live we were cutting and shooting each other like we were making a cowboy movie on a low budget.
One incident stood out for me,two men in their 40's were arguing about when one was going to be paid the the five dollars that was owed him.
The arguement got so heated and stupid each person pulled out weapons and began to fire wildly at each other striking a ten year old kid in the face.
Ok I'm just so sick and tired of these cowboys who walk and live in my neighborhood,I'm so sick and tired of the sorry excuse of the criminal and social systems that have allowed those folks to live and breath in my neighborhood.
                                                                                              Bigmac

I want to do business with my folk!

But so many of the Black Businesses that I have called for bids for different services have disappointed me as a consumer.
I called a tree service own by a Black father and son to cut and remove trees and brush from the back yard.
They give me a bid of $375.00 it seem a little over priced for the amount of work involved.
So as a informed consumer I sorted out another bid from another tree service,needless to say it wasn't Black own.
Their bid included not only the trees I wanted  originally removed but trees that I thought would be an additional cost in the future,their price in total $500.00
The bid for our tree removal and clearing went to the second bidder hands down.
What I learned from this experience is when doing business,keep your emotions in check and simply look at the transaction as just business,if the person who happens to be doing the work for me looks like me thats a bonus.
Folks if we are going to be in business we have got to think long term,we have got to start  thinking in terms of repeat business and growing our business.
Charging me the max at one time for a service doesn't endear me to call your business again,second the goal of any business should be extreme customer service,which means give the customer what they expect.
                                                                        Bigmac

The Gender Wars

This post is inspired in part from a post I read this morning at jackjodell.blogspot.com,it got me to thinking how does the gender wars going on effects the community (Pittsburgh)  that I live within.
Personally I don't think many people I come in contact with think that deep about the behavior that goes on between the genders.
That's because for many the roles of the gender have ever really been defined.
When we refer to each other as my babies daddy or my babies momma,then I think you have serious issues with who and what you are.
So people will understand where I'm coming from I will define the people I'm talking about as the Black community I know in Pittsburgh.
The Black community I know is so far out of touch with the reality of economic and social order that to have a discussion on gender is like beating your head againist the wall.
Most people I encounter are comfortable being a zero or maintaining a image of being one.
Most don't make it known that they care about an issue until it smacks them dead in the face,and even then it only an issue until they can get it out of their face.
Most have never traveled or explored anything outside of the Pittsburgh region.
Most people I encounter think a nice night out is going to a bar or club in their lastest clothing that they over paid for.
So for me there is no gender war in my community there is a war for the brain  and it seems to me that Madison Ave. has won, and decides what's important in the Black Community I know in Pittsburgh.
                                                                         Bigmac

Why are Black People Still Going To Jail?

I know you will say because some of us are committing crimes against society,and yes thats true,because in ever segment of society there are some people who will not hit a lick(work).
But folks are you not sick of going down to the county jail,dragging your children along to visit  skippy and ray-ray?
It's about time we start to raise our children the correct way folks,I mean you made a decison to have this child,now its time for you to put away your child like thinking.
But oh you are just a child your self,so whats happening to our children that today they are having children?
As you can see folks there is a lot of work to be done in our community before we can seriously begin to address the title of this blog post.
So where do we begin?
Where is the leadership in our community?
Where are the Pastors?
Where are the true men who are willing to stand up and be real men and lead?
Where are the true teachers,who really teach?
Oh where oh where have my people gone?
Why have we fallen for the slick Madison Ave hype of this who we are?
Why are so many Black people still self hating?
                                                                                                  Bigmac

Money Talked Loud,Roethlisberger Walks!

Look folks I'm a fan of the Steelers and support them,but I can't in good conscious let the decison not to prosecute Roethlisberger for sexual assault pass without commenting.
I'm getting sick and tired of high profile and rich people getting away with crimes in this country.
For me this ideal of smacking high profile and rich people on the hand for crimes Skippy and Ray-Ray go to Jail for many years is just plain wrong.
The DA in Milledgeville,Ga. ought to go to jail also for not at least taking this case to a grand jury,so regular folks can evaluate the evidence in this case.
To make it plain what happen in this case,Roethlisberger and his Lawyer payed off the young girl involved to just go away.
This case stinks to high heavens,it just furthers my belief that the criminal justice system is a joke for poor and working people in this country.
                                                                        Bigmac

Carry Me Home West Virginia

Life is cheap in West Virginia,when I first heard about the mine explosion last week,my gut reaction was the remaining miners were already dead.
All of this rescue action was just show and tell by the government and that lowdown mine owner Blankenship.
I don't know why I just felt like it was some of my own family who were trapped or killed in that mine explosion.
Maybe because of the stories I heard growing up on how my own grandfather on my father's side was killed  at work in 1935 in Wilmington,NC.
Maybe also because I'm just a working stiff also and desire more for myself and other people in this life.
My heart felt prayers go out to the families of the 29 miners who passed away just trying to do the right thing,going to work!
                                                                       Bigmac

Tiger Woods WHY DAMIT WHY?

Would you allow Nike and the Golf Industry  to PIMP you and your dead father(may he rest in peace) with the latest commerical "welcome back Tiger".
Tiger do you have not a ounce of self respect left?
Tiger do you hate yourself that much that you allow the golf industry and nike to disrespect your dead father?
Tiger someone needs to tell you the truth of this matter,your problem my friend is simple,keep your zipper up and stay focus on your job and family.
                                                                       Bigmac