I’ve written before about my great-great-grandfather Griffin Henry Belk. He had been enslaved and after his freedom was acknowledged, he spent several years searching in vain for his parents. Eventually, he settled on 160 acres of land in Ozan, Arkansas that he purchased for $11 (that’s right, eleven dollars). His descendents still own the land we call the Belk Estate. My mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother were born there. Now that I’m back in Arkansas, I look forward to visiting this spring. I haven’t been there since I was a child, though I clearly remember the pond and forests that cover much of the land. My grandmother always talked lovingly of the five acres she grew up on.
You don’t have to read much of this blog to recognize that I generally think it’s better that resources are spread among many people rather than being concentrated among just a few. For that reason, I am a big promoter of people keeping their family land. It can be a challenge as families grow in size and members move away and lose contact and interest in the land and the taxes associated with it. But given the history behind the land and its value, it can make even more sense to keep it and make it useful. Here are some resources to help you do just that:
* Get in touch with land preservation organizations like the Federation of Southern Cooperatives
Land Assistance Fund or the Arkansas Land & Farm Development Corporation that can help you keep your land. They may be able to help you use land trusts, and other legal tools to help maintain your interest in the land.
* Visit the Forestry Service (or similar office) in your state. Many of them have programs designed to help people develop uses for their land (cutting timber, starting an organic farm, opening a campground, etc.) that can provide income to pay the taxes.
* Talk to your neighbors. If you all are in similar straights you may be able to work together to keep your land. For example, the members of the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society were able to get zoning regulations instituted that favored them keeping their land as homesteads rather than allowing massive development on their high value (and gorgeous) land.
* Talk to your relatives. Some of them may not even know about the land. Others may have interesting ideas about how to use it. I know of a family in Arkansas that built several cabins on their land. They use them for family vacations and rent them out to others who want to visit or have a gathering. You may be surprised at the options. Be sure to talk about them all before you sell, because it’s hard to get it back once it’s gone.
Land is a limited resource, so it would probably be better if no one owned it. But since that's the model we're using, it's better that many of us have a share and that we use it wisely and sustainably.
"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." - Mahatma Gandhi
Showing posts with label family stories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family stories. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Friday, November 28, 2008
Listen.
I was blessed to grow up in a household in which holiday gatherings meant story time. My parents and grandparents taught all who would listen about their lives and those who came before them: Griffin Henry Belk, Sarah Suttles, Andy Suttles, David Maclin, Mose Neal, Jim Neal, Willie Beatrice Jones Neal, and many others. They shared the triumphs and horrors of the past and their hopes for our future. I treasure those memories, those stories, and those expectations for my own life. Over the years, I learned to value the experiences and lessons of the past, in part because of the relevance they have for the present and future.
That's why I am excited that today is the First Annual National Day of Listening. StoryCorps suggests: "This holiday season, ask the people around you about their lives — it could be your grandmother, a teacher, or someone from the neighborhood. By listening to their stories, you will be telling them that they matter and they won’t ever be forgotten. It may be the most meaningful time you spend this year." Visit NationalDayofListening.org to
* Download the free Do It Yourself Guide to selecting your questions, recording your conversations, and more.
* Upload your interview to share your conversation with others.
* Request NPR's StoryCorps visit your community.
* Sign up for free weekly stories by email.
Now is the perfect opportunity to give the gift of listening. So take time today, and everyday, to listen, and learn.
"Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero. Seize the day, trust not to the morrow." - Horace
That's why I am excited that today is the First Annual National Day of Listening. StoryCorps suggests: "This holiday season, ask the people around you about their lives — it could be your grandmother, a teacher, or someone from the neighborhood. By listening to their stories, you will be telling them that they matter and they won’t ever be forgotten. It may be the most meaningful time you spend this year." Visit NationalDayofListening.org to
* Download the free Do It Yourself Guide to selecting your questions, recording your conversations, and more.
* Upload your interview to share your conversation with others.
* Request NPR's StoryCorps visit your community.
* Sign up for free weekly stories by email.
Now is the perfect opportunity to give the gift of listening. So take time today, and everyday, to listen, and learn.
"Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero. Seize the day, trust not to the morrow." - Horace
Monday, January 07, 2008
Prevent FOG clogs.
When I was growing up there was always a container of grease on the stove. Both my mother and grandmother saved grease and oil from cooking. My grandmother would sometimes reuse clean grease for cooking. She'd use our unedible grease to make lye soap. She used it for everything and gave it away to those of us who valued it. In fact, her last set of Christmas gifts to family and friends was gift wrapped homemade lye soap. How cool!
Nowadays, there's much less grease in my and my mother's homes - healthy eating and all. But every now and again, Kwadjo makes falafel or chicken livers and we have grease. We haven't had any new lye soap since that gift wrapped bunch over ten years ago, so what do we do with the grease? It's a problem for lots of us, particularly in restaurants. Fats, oils and greases (FOG) clogs drains and can cause sewage back-ups and flooding, costing money for repairs and damaging the environment. So here are some tips on how to prevent a FOG clog:
Do not
* Pour liquified fat, oil or grease down the drain. This causes to FOG clogs.
* Use hot water and soap to wash away the grease down the drain. It will harden and clog your pipes.
Instead,
--> Place cooled cooking oil, poultry and meat fats in sealed non-recyclable containers and discard with your regular garbage. FOG is food waste. Treat it as such.
--> Use paper towels to wipe residual grease or oil off of dishes, pots and pans before washing them. Discard the towels in the trash.
Bottom line - if you're not going to use your FOG waste for fuel (biodiesel or WVO) or for soap, put it in the trash not down the drain. Similar rules apply to motor oil except that it should be recycled. So now Kwadjo and I have container of grease under the sink. When it's full we'll trash it. Maybe one day, though, we'll make soap!
"Opinions are to the vast apparatus of social existence what oil is to machines: one does not go up to a turbine and pour machine oil over it; one applies a little to hidden spindles and joints that one has to know." - Walter Benjamin (1892–1940), German philosopher
Nowadays, there's much less grease in my and my mother's homes - healthy eating and all. But every now and again, Kwadjo makes falafel or chicken livers and we have grease. We haven't had any new lye soap since that gift wrapped bunch over ten years ago, so what do we do with the grease? It's a problem for lots of us, particularly in restaurants. Fats, oils and greases (FOG) clogs drains and can cause sewage back-ups and flooding, costing money for repairs and damaging the environment. So here are some tips on how to prevent a FOG clog:
Do not
* Pour liquified fat, oil or grease down the drain. This causes to FOG clogs.
* Use hot water and soap to wash away the grease down the drain. It will harden and clog your pipes.
Instead,
--> Place cooled cooking oil, poultry and meat fats in sealed non-recyclable containers and discard with your regular garbage. FOG is food waste. Treat it as such.
--> Use paper towels to wipe residual grease or oil off of dishes, pots and pans before washing them. Discard the towels in the trash.
Bottom line - if you're not going to use your FOG waste for fuel (biodiesel or WVO) or for soap, put it in the trash not down the drain. Similar rules apply to motor oil except that it should be recycled. So now Kwadjo and I have container of grease under the sink. When it's full we'll trash it. Maybe one day, though, we'll make soap!
"Opinions are to the vast apparatus of social existence what oil is to machines: one does not go up to a turbine and pour machine oil over it; one applies a little to hidden spindles and joints that one has to know." - Walter Benjamin (1892–1940), German philosopher
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Send a net, save a life.
Back when I was in high school, my grandmother got food poisoning from some bad tuna. After she recovered, she told me, "I haven't been that sick since I had malaria in '37!" I was a bit surprised since, at the time, I didn't know malaria had been a problem in the United States. I remember responding, "You had malaria in '37?"
Well, malaria is no longer transmitted in the US, but 41% of the world's population lives in places where it is (Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, Hispaniola, and Oceania). Want some more stats?
--> Over one million people die each year from malaria, most of them young children.
--> In some parts of the world where transmission rates are high, there can be as many as 2 deaths per minute from malaria.
--> Life-saving treatments for malaria are relatively inexpensive: $0.13 for chloroquine, $0.14 for sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, and $2.68 for a 7-day course of quinine.
--> "Insecticide-treated bed nets can reduce transmission as much as 90% in areas with high coverage rates."
That's right: NETS SAVE LIVES. And you can too when you purchase a net for just $10 through the Nothing But Nets Campaign from the United Nations Foundation. Just visit NothingButNets.net to make your donation. And check out So What Can I Do - News for a recent press release about their work in Congo. And here's the great thing: because of Ted Turner's gift to the UN Foundation, every cent of your donation goes toward getting the nets to the people who need them. No administrative costs are taken out.
Mom (my grandmother) took quinine when she had malaria, but others won't have to if malaria can be prevented in the first place. So in honor of her birthday today (it would have been her 97th), I encourage all of you buy a net. I bought two. It's that easy: Send a net, save a life. Happy birthday, Mom!
"You go your way and I'll go mine." — Griffin Henry Belk, grandfather of Fanilla Suttles Cobb, grandmother of Karama Neal
Well, malaria is no longer transmitted in the US, but 41% of the world's population lives in places where it is (Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, Hispaniola, and Oceania). Want some more stats?
--> Over one million people die each year from malaria, most of them young children.
--> In some parts of the world where transmission rates are high, there can be as many as 2 deaths per minute from malaria.
--> Life-saving treatments for malaria are relatively inexpensive: $0.13 for chloroquine, $0.14 for sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, and $2.68 for a 7-day course of quinine.
--> "Insecticide-treated bed nets can reduce transmission as much as 90% in areas with high coverage rates."
That's right: NETS SAVE LIVES. And you can too when you purchase a net for just $10 through the Nothing But Nets Campaign from the United Nations Foundation. Just visit NothingButNets.net to make your donation. And check out So What Can I Do - News for a recent press release about their work in Congo. And here's the great thing: because of Ted Turner's gift to the UN Foundation, every cent of your donation goes toward getting the nets to the people who need them. No administrative costs are taken out.
Mom (my grandmother) took quinine when she had malaria, but others won't have to if malaria can be prevented in the first place. So in honor of her birthday today (it would have been her 97th), I encourage all of you buy a net. I bought two. It's that easy: Send a net, save a life. Happy birthday, Mom!
"You go your way and I'll go mine." — Griffin Henry Belk, grandfather of Fanilla Suttles Cobb, grandmother of Karama Neal
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Donate milk.
I've learned a lot about breastfeeding in the last few months. I know how good it is for my baby, so I was pleased to see that there are milk banks that provide milk for babies who cannot tolerate formula and whose moms cannot provide breast milk.
There are several milk banks in the US which will collect milk from donors across the country and ship it to recipients who need it. They are regulated by Human Milk Bank Association of North America. So if you have or can generate excess milk, consider donating it to improve the health or save the life of a baby.
Just this Christmas, my mother told me about how my great-aunt was a wet nurse for her niece. Since wet nurses aren't so readily available these days, consider donating milk to improve or save the life of a baby. Even if you don't have milk to give, you can still donate life.
"Resistance is the secret of joy." Alice Walker in Possessing the Secret of Joy
There are several milk banks in the US which will collect milk from donors across the country and ship it to recipients who need it. They are regulated by Human Milk Bank Association of North America. So if you have or can generate excess milk, consider donating it to improve the health or save the life of a baby.
Just this Christmas, my mother told me about how my great-aunt was a wet nurse for her niece. Since wet nurses aren't so readily available these days, consider donating milk to improve or save the life of a baby. Even if you don't have milk to give, you can still donate life.
"Resistance is the secret of joy." Alice Walker in Possessing the Secret of Joy
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Don't forget.
Sometimes we have the best intentions, but with our busy lives it can be easy to forget to do the things we want to do to make the world a better place. Well, forget tying a string around your finger, or putting a wastepaperbasket in the middle of the floor, reminding has moved into the 21st century! Here are several free email reminder services (here, here, here, and here) that you can use to help you remember to do the things you want (and need) to do. For example,
* Remember to give blood every 56 days to save three people's lives.
* Remember to change your car oil, recycle the waste oil, and replace with synthetic oil.
* Remember to cut your hair and donate it it to Locks of Love.
* Remember to click everyday to make free donations to worthwhile charities.
* Remember to visit your weekly or monthly local farmer's market to stock up on locally-grown fresh foods.
* Remember to read So what can I do for the latest ways to make a difference.
Soon these activities will become a habit, like brushing your teeth, buying gas for your car, or purchasing your monthly transit pass, and you won't need a reminder. But until that happens, use one of the free reminder services to make sure you are doing all you can to improve yourself and improve our world.
"Ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have." -James Baldwin, writer (1924-1987)
* Remember to give blood every 56 days to save three people's lives.
* Remember to change your car oil, recycle the waste oil, and replace with synthetic oil.
* Remember to cut your hair and donate it it to Locks of Love.
* Remember to click everyday to make free donations to worthwhile charities.
* Remember to visit your weekly or monthly local farmer's market to stock up on locally-grown fresh foods.
* Remember to read So what can I do for the latest ways to make a difference.
Soon these activities will become a habit, like brushing your teeth, buying gas for your car, or purchasing your monthly transit pass, and you won't need a reminder. But until that happens, use one of the free reminder services to make sure you are doing all you can to improve yourself and improve our world.
"Ignorance, allied with power, is the most ferocious enemy justice can have." -James Baldwin, writer (1924-1987)
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Celebrate Kwanzaa: Imani.
On this, the seventh and last day of Kwanzaa, we focus on imani (faith) and "believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle."
I spend a lot of time writing So what can I do posts about physical health and mental health, but it is just as important to cultivate spiritual health.
For me the spiritual health piece is most important, since give me peace and purpose, and informs how I develop and maintain my physical and mental health. FamilyDoctor.org suggests:
For me, spirituality and spiritual health comes through my personal relationship with God. Regardless of how you "find meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in your life," make sure you do so. Be healthy, mind, body and soul.
As humans, we are all members of that first African Diaspora. And accordingly, the principles of Kwanzaa apply to us all. Manifest the Kwanzaa principles today, this week, and all year long.
What a way to start 2006! A blessed new year to you all!
"The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X
I spend a lot of time writing So what can I do posts about physical health and mental health, but it is just as important to cultivate spiritual health.
For me the spiritual health piece is most important, since give me peace and purpose, and informs how I develop and maintain my physical and mental health. FamilyDoctor.org suggests:
Spirituality is the way you find meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in your life. Many people find spirituality through religion. Some find it through music, art or a connection with nature. Others find it in their values and principles.
For me, spirituality and spiritual health comes through my personal relationship with God. Regardless of how you "find meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in your life," make sure you do so. Be healthy, mind, body and soul.
As humans, we are all members of that first African Diaspora. And accordingly, the principles of Kwanzaa apply to us all. Manifest the Kwanzaa principles today, this week, and all year long.
What a way to start 2006! A blessed new year to you all!
"The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Keep hope alive.
One of the best sermons I ever heard was on hope. The minister (whose name, unfortunately, I cannot remember) spoke about how hope is critical for survival and for thriving. The climax of her sermon went something like:
It was such a moving and meaningful message, and, to me, it represents the true meaning of Christmas: hope for a better life, now and forever. I think of that Sunday sermon often, am reminded that we have both hope, and the means to achieve what we hope for.
May this day and each day bring you closer to being the best person you can be! Peace and blessings to you all.
Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out. - Václav Havel (b. 1936), Czech playwright, president.
"One can live without friendship, but one can't live without the hope of friendship. One can live without justice, but one can't live without the hope of justice. One can live without peace, but one can't live without the hope of peace. One can live without joy, but one can't live without the hope of joy."
It was such a moving and meaningful message, and, to me, it represents the true meaning of Christmas: hope for a better life, now and forever. I think of that Sunday sermon often, am reminded that we have both hope, and the means to achieve what we hope for.
May this day and each day bring you closer to being the best person you can be! Peace and blessings to you all.
Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out. - Václav Havel (b. 1936), Czech playwright, president.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Recycle Christmas cards and more.
Ready for another reader-inspired post? Janice writes:
Good question, Janice! Your concern is justified. In the UK alone, about 1 billion Christmas cards are thrown away every season. Imagine how many are trashed in the US and rest of the world! That make for a lot of waste. Here are a few ways to reduce, reuse and recycle during the holidays:
* Cards - Your community may allow you to recycle them with other paper waste. Check to be sure. If not, consider using them for crafts. (I particularly like the idea of using them for holiday postcards or gift tags.) St. Jude doesn't need anymore used cards, but you can buy recycled cards from them for next year.
* Trees - Your community may offer curbside or neighborhood recycling or use in wildlife habitats. If not, you may want to chip it and use it for mulch or compost. Next year, consider decorating a plantable or artificial tree.
* Gifts - No one wants to talk about regifting, but many of us do it. If you have items you would like to "regift", make sure you follow these regifting etiquette suggestions.
* Food - Leftover food from holiday or other functions can often be given to a food rescue agency. They'll use it to feed the hungry in your community. Remember to donate extra food (or money) to your local food bank.
* Reduce, reuse, and recycle the glass, plastic, paper, and aluminum that you use during the holidays and all year long.
Happy solstice, happy new year, and keep the great suggestions coming!
"Children learn more from what you are than what you teach." - W.E.B. DuBois
What I would like to know is how to recycle those Christmas cards after Christmas. It seems like such a waste to throw them out. I have two years worth of Christmas cards piling up on me.
Good question, Janice! Your concern is justified. In the UK alone, about 1 billion Christmas cards are thrown away every season. Imagine how many are trashed in the US and rest of the world! That make for a lot of waste. Here are a few ways to reduce, reuse and recycle during the holidays:
* Cards - Your community may allow you to recycle them with other paper waste. Check to be sure. If not, consider using them for crafts. (I particularly like the idea of using them for holiday postcards or gift tags.) St. Jude doesn't need anymore used cards, but you can buy recycled cards from them for next year.
* Trees - Your community may offer curbside or neighborhood recycling or use in wildlife habitats. If not, you may want to chip it and use it for mulch or compost. Next year, consider decorating a plantable or artificial tree.
* Gifts - No one wants to talk about regifting, but many of us do it. If you have items you would like to "regift", make sure you follow these regifting etiquette suggestions.
* Food - Leftover food from holiday or other functions can often be given to a food rescue agency. They'll use it to feed the hungry in your community. Remember to donate extra food (or money) to your local food bank.
* Reduce, reuse, and recycle the glass, plastic, paper, and aluminum that you use during the holidays and all year long.
Happy solstice, happy new year, and keep the great suggestions coming!
"Children learn more from what you are than what you teach." - W.E.B. DuBois
Friday, November 11, 2005
Do your duty.
My grandmother always wanted to serve on a jury. Perhaps that was because, as a black American, for most of her life, she was barred from serving. Unfortunately, even after black folks were allowed to serve, she was never called. She would have been a good juror. She understood the value and purpose of juries and would have taken her duty and responsibility seriously. I will strive to do the same when I have jury duty in February. I know Kwadjo took his responsibility seriously when he served a few months ago.
If you are called to serve, think carefully about your activities and limitations, and the jury obligation and its role in our judicial system before trying to defer. Consider these resources:
* Consider the various types of justice and how they may apply in the case at hand.
* Use the tips to prepare for deliberation.
* Make sure you understand your employer's policy on leave for jury duty.
* Remember to respect your fellow jurors.
* Be sure to dress appropriately for jury duty. You'll want to be comfortable.
Participation in a jury is one of the ways you can contribute to a more just society. The duty is not to be ignored or taken lightly. So next time you are summoned for jury duty, do your best as you serve and work toward a just verdict.
Today would have been Fanilla Suttles Cobb's 95th birthday. Happy birthday, Mom!
"Human kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened the fiber of a free people. A nation does not have to be cruel to be tough." - Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd US President (1882-1945)
If you are called to serve, think carefully about your activities and limitations, and the jury obligation and its role in our judicial system before trying to defer. Consider these resources:
* Consider the various types of justice and how they may apply in the case at hand.
* Use the tips to prepare for deliberation.
* Make sure you understand your employer's policy on leave for jury duty.
* Remember to respect your fellow jurors.
* Be sure to dress appropriately for jury duty. You'll want to be comfortable.
Participation in a jury is one of the ways you can contribute to a more just society. The duty is not to be ignored or taken lightly. So next time you are summoned for jury duty, do your best as you serve and work toward a just verdict.
Today would have been Fanilla Suttles Cobb's 95th birthday. Happy birthday, Mom!
"Human kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened the fiber of a free people. A nation does not have to be cruel to be tough." - Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd US President (1882-1945)
Saturday, November 05, 2005
Get the truth.
As a Southern black American woman, I am keenly aware that there are multiple versions of the "truth". Growing up, I'd often hear one version of history from my mother, grandmother, and father (Thanks y'all!) and a completely different version in school. So nowadays, I consult multiple media sources in an effort to get the truth. My favorite (read: most reliable) sources are independent media. You may want to peruse these resources to find independent, non-corporate newspapers, magazines, radio and television reporting:
* The Independent Media Institute "empowers people with independent journalism, information, and media tools to change the world."
* The Independent Media Center "is a collective of independent media organizations and hundreds of journalists offering grassroots, non-corporate coverage. Indymedia is a democratic media outlet for the creation of radical, accurate, and passionate tellings of truth." Read it in deutsch, Ελληνικά, português, español, nederlands, italiano, français, and english.
* AlterNet is a project of the Independent Media Institute and "is a highly acclaimed Internet information source that provides readers with crucial facts and passionate opinions they can't find anywhere else."
* Reporters Without Borders "is an association officially recognised as serving the public interest. More than a third of the world’s people live in countries where there is no press freedom. Reporters Without Borders works constantly to restore their right to be informed." Read it in français, español and english. Also, they have a great Handbook for bloggers and cyber-dissidents.
* The World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters is "an international non-governmental organization serving the community radio movement, with almost 3 000 members and associates in 110 countries. Its goal is to support and contribute to the development of community and participatory radio along the principals of solidarity and international cooperation." Read the site in français, español and english.
* Indymedia UK is "a network of individuals, independent and alternative media activists and organisations, offering grassroots, non-corporate, non-commercial coverage of important social and political issues."
* Pacifica Radio has been "bringing listeners alternative, community, free speech, listener sponsored radio for over 50 years."
Don't settle for someone else's corporate-driven, politically-motivated version of the truth. Consult independent media and decide for yourself.
"During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." -George Orwell, writer (1903-1950)
* The Independent Media Institute "empowers people with independent journalism, information, and media tools to change the world."
* The Independent Media Center "is a collective of independent media organizations and hundreds of journalists offering grassroots, non-corporate coverage. Indymedia is a democratic media outlet for the creation of radical, accurate, and passionate tellings of truth." Read it in deutsch, Ελληνικά, português, español, nederlands, italiano, français, and english.
* AlterNet is a project of the Independent Media Institute and "is a highly acclaimed Internet information source that provides readers with crucial facts and passionate opinions they can't find anywhere else."
* Reporters Without Borders "is an association officially recognised as serving the public interest. More than a third of the world’s people live in countries where there is no press freedom. Reporters Without Borders works constantly to restore their right to be informed." Read it in français, español and english. Also, they have a great Handbook for bloggers and cyber-dissidents.
* The World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters is "an international non-governmental organization serving the community radio movement, with almost 3 000 members and associates in 110 countries. Its goal is to support and contribute to the development of community and participatory radio along the principals of solidarity and international cooperation." Read the site in français, español and english.
* Indymedia UK is "a network of individuals, independent and alternative media activists and organisations, offering grassroots, non-corporate, non-commercial coverage of important social and political issues."
* Pacifica Radio has been "bringing listeners alternative, community, free speech, listener sponsored radio for over 50 years."
Don't settle for someone else's corporate-driven, politically-motivated version of the truth. Consult independent media and decide for yourself.
"During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." -George Orwell, writer (1903-1950)
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Spread the love.
Regular readers know that Kwadjo and I are getting married in a few days. (Woo hoo!!) Nowadays the average cost of a wedding is about $25,000. That's a bunch! Seems like there ought to be a way to spread some of that around to folks who can really use it. Thankfully, there are lots of ways to do just that and still have a joyous, beautiful, fun, and meaningful marriage celebration. Here some ideas you and your partner may want to consider:
--> Donate leftover food to a food rescue agency. There's sure to be one in your area. We're working with Potluck Food Rescue in Central Arkansas. Also, locally- or organically-grown food is a good idea.
--> Choose environmentally-responsible rings that use metals and gems that are recycled and conflict-free.
--> Use recycled paper for your invitations, programs, thank you cards and the like. You can find beautiful recycled paper products at many locations, including office and wedding supply stores.
--> Donate the flowers to a nursing home or assisted living facility. The folks there will really appreciate your kindness. Organically- or locally-grown flowers are also a good choice.
--> Donate your dress after the big day. Are you really going to wear it again? Your daughter may not want to wear it either. (Do you want to wear your mom's?). Instead the resale of the dress can benefit a good cause.
--> Make a donation to your favorite charity in honor of your guests instead of (or in addition to) more traditional favors. If you don't have a favorite charity, scroll through the archives of So what can I do? to get some ideas.
--> Plan a socially-conscious wedding with help from the I Do Foundation. It's run by Swarthmore alums and has great ideas, including making charitable contributions through your registry. Also check out Organic Weddings and Green Weddings for more ways to make a difference on your big day.
Hopefully, you can incorporate one or more of these ideas into your celebration. (Share your own in the comments.) From the registry, to the honeymoon, make your celebration even more meaningful. Spread the love you share with your sweetheart, and let your commitment or wedding celebration be a vehicle for love and service.
"Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination." - Roy Goodman
--> Donate leftover food to a food rescue agency. There's sure to be one in your area. We're working with Potluck Food Rescue in Central Arkansas. Also, locally- or organically-grown food is a good idea.
--> Choose environmentally-responsible rings that use metals and gems that are recycled and conflict-free.
--> Use recycled paper for your invitations, programs, thank you cards and the like. You can find beautiful recycled paper products at many locations, including office and wedding supply stores.
--> Donate the flowers to a nursing home or assisted living facility. The folks there will really appreciate your kindness. Organically- or locally-grown flowers are also a good choice.
--> Donate your dress after the big day. Are you really going to wear it again? Your daughter may not want to wear it either. (Do you want to wear your mom's?). Instead the resale of the dress can benefit a good cause.
--> Make a donation to your favorite charity in honor of your guests instead of (or in addition to) more traditional favors. If you don't have a favorite charity, scroll through the archives of So what can I do? to get some ideas.
--> Plan a socially-conscious wedding with help from the I Do Foundation. It's run by Swarthmore alums and has great ideas, including making charitable contributions through your registry. Also check out Organic Weddings and Green Weddings for more ways to make a difference on your big day.
Hopefully, you can incorporate one or more of these ideas into your celebration. (Share your own in the comments.) From the registry, to the honeymoon, make your celebration even more meaningful. Spread the love you share with your sweetheart, and let your commitment or wedding celebration be a vehicle for love and service.
"Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination." - Roy Goodman
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Take someone with you.
Spring 1865, Southwest Arkansas (Hempstead County?)
Griffin Henry Belk wiped his brow as he looked up at the hot Arkansas sun. That stubborn mule he's driving (or trying to drive) simply refuses to pull the plow. Finally, the mule decided to move. "Good," Griffin thought. "Maybe I'll be able to finish up before sundown." Just then, a white man on horseback approached. The man slowed and Griffin stopped the mule. The stranger spoke, "You know, you don't have to plow like that." Griffin looked at the man with confusion. "You're free," he said, "All y'all are free!" Ahh. The words Griffin had always wanted to hear. As the white man rode off, Griffin unleashed the mule and told the mule, "You go your way, and I'll go mine". And with that, he and the mule went free.
On this, the 19th of June, I remember, among others, Griffin Henry Belk, my great-great-granddaddy. This day is Juneteenth, my favorite holiday. Juneteenth started in Galveston, Texas in 1865, and is the African American Emancipation Day, commemorating the end of legalized enslavement in the US. My grandmother, Fanilla Suttles Cobb (Griffin's granddaughter) told this story often, but my father, Olly Neal, pointed out an important fact: not only did Griffin Belk free himself, he freed the mule! He went above the call of duty and took someone (albeit a mule) with him on his road to freedom. On this Juneteenth consider the ways you can take someone with you as you work to improve your life.
Today is an excellent day to consider the ways you can improve your life and help others:
* Be a volunteer.
* Live ethically.
* Work for economic justice.
Celebrate Juneteenth and the end of enslavement in this country. And as you rise, don't forget to take someone with you. Happy Juneteenth!
Griffin Henry Belk wiped his brow as he looked up at the hot Arkansas sun. That stubborn mule he's driving (or trying to drive) simply refuses to pull the plow. Finally, the mule decided to move. "Good," Griffin thought. "Maybe I'll be able to finish up before sundown." Just then, a white man on horseback approached. The man slowed and Griffin stopped the mule. The stranger spoke, "You know, you don't have to plow like that." Griffin looked at the man with confusion. "You're free," he said, "All y'all are free!" Ahh. The words Griffin had always wanted to hear. As the white man rode off, Griffin unleashed the mule and told the mule, "You go your way, and I'll go mine". And with that, he and the mule went free.
On this, the 19th of June, I remember, among others, Griffin Henry Belk, my great-great-granddaddy. This day is Juneteenth, my favorite holiday. Juneteenth started in Galveston, Texas in 1865, and is the African American Emancipation Day, commemorating the end of legalized enslavement in the US. My grandmother, Fanilla Suttles Cobb (Griffin's granddaughter) told this story often, but my father, Olly Neal, pointed out an important fact: not only did Griffin Belk free himself, he freed the mule! He went above the call of duty and took someone (albeit a mule) with him on his road to freedom. On this Juneteenth consider the ways you can take someone with you as you work to improve your life.
Today is an excellent day to consider the ways you can improve your life and help others:
* Be a volunteer.
* Live ethically.
* Work for economic justice.
Celebrate Juneteenth and the end of enslavement in this country. And as you rise, don't forget to take someone with you. Happy Juneteenth!
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Compost.
For many years, my mother has had a compost bin in her backyard. She saves eggshells, yard clippings, produce waste and more and uses it to amend her soil. My grandmother loved to contribute the clippings from when she shelled peas or cleaned greens or canned fruit or vegetables.
Composting is the a natural method of recycling that transforms "organic material (plant matter) through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost. Invertebrates (insects and earthworms), and microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) help in transforming the material into compost." It doesn't take much space and it's a great way to reduce waste and to create nutrient-rich soil. This is important because food and yard waste make up 30% of the waste in the US.
Here's how to get started:
* Here is a list of the the materials you can compost.
* Click here for information on the materials you'll need to compost.
* Visit here here for tips on composting techniques.
* You'll find composting information in French and English here.
Now is a great time to start your own compost pile. Have fun!
Composting is the a natural method of recycling that transforms "organic material (plant matter) through decomposition into a soil-like material called compost. Invertebrates (insects and earthworms), and microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) help in transforming the material into compost." It doesn't take much space and it's a great way to reduce waste and to create nutrient-rich soil. This is important because food and yard waste make up 30% of the waste in the US.
Here's how to get started:
* Here is a list of the the materials you can compost.
* Click here for information on the materials you'll need to compost.
* Visit here here for tips on composting techniques.
* You'll find composting information in French and English here.
Now is a great time to start your own compost pile. Have fun!
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Try transit.
Amazingly enough, given Atlanta's long commute times, I actually enjoy my commute. Why, you might ask? Because I ride MARTA! MARTA is the public transportation system in the Atlanta area. I grew up riding Central Arkansas Transit with my grandmother (she always let me ring the bell!), and SEPTA was handy when I was at Swarthmore, so I know that transit can be a convenient, affordable, and less polluting way to get around. Are you ready to ride?
* Find your local transit agency and get information on fares, routes, and more. Check with your employer since many will offer discounts on transit to their employees. Emory, for example, gives free MARTA transit passes to employees who are committed to a "clean commute."
I was so excited that I made a list of things I could do on the bus and train (read, write, talk, etc.). Talk about multitasking! But if for some reason, transit won't work for you, consider these options:
* Join a carpool. You'll save money, endure less stress, and may even make some new friends!
* Walk to work. I often walk to the MARTA bus and get to say good morning to the schoolchildren waiting for the bus. Last week I saw a goose family on my walk. It's such a peaceful way to start and end the day. You can even get a pedometer to keep track of your exercise and progress.
* Ride your bike to work. You'll get some exercise while you're at it!
* Telework. This is the easiest commute of all! I teleworked for five years and I know that it can be a very productive way to do business.
Try some of these ideas. You might like them more than you think, and you'll be doing good for yourself and your community. Enjoy your commute!
* Find your local transit agency and get information on fares, routes, and more. Check with your employer since many will offer discounts on transit to their employees. Emory, for example, gives free MARTA transit passes to employees who are committed to a "clean commute."
I was so excited that I made a list of things I could do on the bus and train (read, write, talk, etc.). Talk about multitasking! But if for some reason, transit won't work for you, consider these options:
* Join a carpool. You'll save money, endure less stress, and may even make some new friends!
* Walk to work. I often walk to the MARTA bus and get to say good morning to the schoolchildren waiting for the bus. Last week I saw a goose family on my walk. It's such a peaceful way to start and end the day. You can even get a pedometer to keep track of your exercise and progress.
* Ride your bike to work. You'll get some exercise while you're at it!
* Telework. This is the easiest commute of all! I teleworked for five years and I know that it can be a very productive way to do business.
Try some of these ideas. You might like them more than you think, and you'll be doing good for yourself and your community. Enjoy your commute!
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Each one teach one.
I expect that each of us has at least one teacher who made a positive impact on our lives. I fondly remember learning from Bruce, Mrs. Brooks, Mr. Watson, Mrs. Steadman, and Miss Holmes, to name just a few. And though I didn't know her, I am grateful to my grandmother, Willie Beatrice Jones Neal, who was also teacher (and taught my dad in the classroom and at home.)
Today is National Teacher Day, "a day for honoring teachers and recognizing the lasting contributions they make to our lives." As a former Arkansas teacher myself and as the beneficiary of the work of numerous Arkansas teachers (including my mother and grandmother), I am pleased to note that the first work to initiate National Teacher Day was done by an Arkansas teacher in 1944.
On this day, take the time to thank a teacher who helped you. Maybe she taught a class, maybe he was a mentor, maybe she taught you a life lesson. None of us makes it alone; someone taught us what we know and, in addition to being grateful, we have a responsibility to teach those around us. Consider these ways you can do this:
* Model the behavior you expect from others. As Mahatma Ghandi said "Be the change you want to see in the world." We can all do this.
* Share what you know. We all are blessed with talents. Identify yours and teach someone else.
* Remember that we're all lifelong learners (or we should be). Perhaps you can teach an adult to read or be a mentor.
To all the teachers out there, I salute you! Thank you for the good and valuable work you do!
Today is National Teacher Day, "a day for honoring teachers and recognizing the lasting contributions they make to our lives." As a former Arkansas teacher myself and as the beneficiary of the work of numerous Arkansas teachers (including my mother and grandmother), I am pleased to note that the first work to initiate National Teacher Day was done by an Arkansas teacher in 1944.
On this day, take the time to thank a teacher who helped you. Maybe she taught a class, maybe he was a mentor, maybe she taught you a life lesson. None of us makes it alone; someone taught us what we know and, in addition to being grateful, we have a responsibility to teach those around us. Consider these ways you can do this:
* Model the behavior you expect from others. As Mahatma Ghandi said "Be the change you want to see in the world." We can all do this.
* Share what you know. We all are blessed with talents. Identify yours and teach someone else.
* Remember that we're all lifelong learners (or we should be). Perhaps you can teach an adult to read or be a mentor.
To all the teachers out there, I salute you! Thank you for the good and valuable work you do!
Friday, March 04, 2005
March forth!
A few years ago, a friend of my mother's told her that hers is the only birthday that is also a command: March 'Forth!' So in honor of my mother's birthday today, I'm asking the readers of 'So what can I do' to march forth out of the shadows, sort of a delurking day. If you would, please leave a comment and let me know you're out there. Today is also World Day of Prayer. So feel free to use the comment space to talk about what you'll pray for, make a suggestion for 'So what can I do', send a shout out to a friend, or even wish my mother, Janet, a happy birthday. Thanks for reading! I hope to hear from you.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Teach tolerance.
Tolerance.org is a web project of the Southern Poverty Law Center that has as its motto "Fight hate and promote tolerance." Sounds like a good plan to me! Here are some ways to participate:
* Get 101 tools for tolerance and use them to promote equity in your home, school, community, or workplace.
* Test yourself for hidden biases. "Studies show people can be consciously committed to egalitarianism, and deliberately work to behave without prejudice, and yet still possess hidden negative prejudices or stereotypes." Uncover yours and work to eliminate them.
* Learn how language can be used (knowingly or unknowingly) to promote biases and discrimination.
* Use 10 principles to fight hate because every hour someone commits a hate crime. Every day at least eight blacks, three whites, three gays, three Jews and one Latino become hate crime victims. Every week a cross is burned.
* Support the wonderful work at the Southern Poverty Law Center financially and otherwise.
Tolerance.org has special sections for parents, teens, children and teachers, so everyone can find something useful. Remember, one of the best ways to teach is to model. So think about what you believe in, think about what's right, and make sure your words and actions reflect your beliefs.
* Get 101 tools for tolerance and use them to promote equity in your home, school, community, or workplace.
* Test yourself for hidden biases. "Studies show people can be consciously committed to egalitarianism, and deliberately work to behave without prejudice, and yet still possess hidden negative prejudices or stereotypes." Uncover yours and work to eliminate them.
* Learn how language can be used (knowingly or unknowingly) to promote biases and discrimination.
* Use 10 principles to fight hate because every hour someone commits a hate crime. Every day at least eight blacks, three whites, three gays, three Jews and one Latino become hate crime victims. Every week a cross is burned.
* Support the wonderful work at the Southern Poverty Law Center financially and otherwise.
Tolerance.org has special sections for parents, teens, children and teachers, so everyone can find something useful. Remember, one of the best ways to teach is to model. So think about what you believe in, think about what's right, and make sure your words and actions reflect your beliefs.
Monday, January 31, 2005
Reduce, reuse, recycle, restore: clothing
(As I mentioned a little while ago, I just started a new job. This new work environment has caused me to investigate and implement some changes in the way I live. I'll be blogging about them periodically in the coming weeks.)
I've had to update my wardrobe a bit, since I work outside the home now. I'm not much of a clotheshorse but I do tend to keep clothes (and other things) for a long time. I'm using this opportunity to clear out the clutter. Here are some things you can do with clothes you no longer wear:
* Sell them at a garage sale or consignment shop. If you want, you can donate the money to a clothing charity like Dress for Success, Salvation Army, or your local "Coats for Kids."
* Donate them to someone who can use them. Consider Dress for Success, an organization that "provides interview suits, confidence boosts and career development to more than 45,000 women in over 73 cities each year" or Goodwill Industries which sells donated clothing and household goods to "fund services for people with workplace disadvantages and disabilities by providing job training and employment services, as well as job placement opportunities and post-employment support. "
* Trade them in a clothes swap. That way, you'll get rid of clothes you don't use in exchange for clothes you will use. And your items don't go to waste.
* Reuse them. If the item has a small flaw, a seamstress or tailor may be able to remake it so that you can still wear and enjoy it. Thankfully, my mother just rescued a favorite dress of mine that had a hole of unknown origin in a very inauspicious place. If items are no longer wearable, then use the fabric for quilting. I love to remember favorite childhood dresses by the pieces used in a quilt I made with my mother and grandmother. If the item is not so loved, cut it up for rags. I just used a bunch when I painted my bathroom. Rags often come in handy for cleaning, dusting, and the like. I've even seen them used as stuffing for pillows!
Any other suggestions? Just list them in the comments below. Thanks!
I've had to update my wardrobe a bit, since I work outside the home now. I'm not much of a clotheshorse but I do tend to keep clothes (and other things) for a long time. I'm using this opportunity to clear out the clutter. Here are some things you can do with clothes you no longer wear:
* Sell them at a garage sale or consignment shop. If you want, you can donate the money to a clothing charity like Dress for Success, Salvation Army, or your local "Coats for Kids."
* Donate them to someone who can use them. Consider Dress for Success, an organization that "provides interview suits, confidence boosts and career development to more than 45,000 women in over 73 cities each year" or Goodwill Industries which sells donated clothing and household goods to "fund services for people with workplace disadvantages and disabilities by providing job training and employment services, as well as job placement opportunities and post-employment support. "
* Trade them in a clothes swap. That way, you'll get rid of clothes you don't use in exchange for clothes you will use. And your items don't go to waste.
* Reuse them. If the item has a small flaw, a seamstress or tailor may be able to remake it so that you can still wear and enjoy it. Thankfully, my mother just rescued a favorite dress of mine that had a hole of unknown origin in a very inauspicious place. If items are no longer wearable, then use the fabric for quilting. I love to remember favorite childhood dresses by the pieces used in a quilt I made with my mother and grandmother. If the item is not so loved, cut it up for rags. I just used a bunch when I painted my bathroom. Rags often come in handy for cleaning, dusting, and the like. I've even seen them used as stuffing for pillows!
Any other suggestions? Just list them in the comments below. Thanks!
Monday, January 24, 2005
Fight hunger in the United States
At the time of this post, 6,162,118,356 pounds of food have already been wasted this year in the US. That's over 6 billion pounds. And January's not even over yet. All this, while more and more people are food insecure, or hungry or at risk of hunger. This describes urban, rural and suburban folks, children, senior citizens and families, the working and the unemployed. But you can help. Here's how:
Visit America's Second Harvest to learn more about hunger and food distribution in the US. On their site: you can:
* Learn more about hunger in the Unites States. Get the facts. They are sure to motivate you to act.
* Identify a food bank near you. Here you can get services for yourself or for someone in need. Or you can volunteer, or donate food or money.
* Give funds. Every dollar puts 15 meals on the table. Every little bit helps.
* Give food. Learn how to donate excess perishable food from your wedding, party, conference, or other gathering. Get information on how to conduct a food drive.
* Give time. Find volunteer opportunities near you. People are needed every day to sort, distribute and deliver food.
And here are two suggestions for cutting down on waste from my own life.
* Let people (children too) serve their own plates. My grandmother's rule was that we could always have seconds but had to eat whatever we put on our plates. Less waste saves money. If you don't need to save money, do so anyway and donate it to an organization that fights hunger.
* According to my mother, as a child my eyes were always bigger than my stomach when we'd go out to eat at the local cafeteria after church. After several weeks of me ordering food and not eating it, she decided to make me pay for the food I didn't eat out of my allowance. I stopped wasting food.
So when you sit down for your next meal, consider those who are without. Then do something to combat hunger in your community. It's a solvable problem, we just have to work at it. It's the right thing to do.
Visit America's Second Harvest to learn more about hunger and food distribution in the US. On their site: you can:
* Learn more about hunger in the Unites States. Get the facts. They are sure to motivate you to act.
* Identify a food bank near you. Here you can get services for yourself or for someone in need. Or you can volunteer, or donate food or money.
* Give funds. Every dollar puts 15 meals on the table. Every little bit helps.
* Give food. Learn how to donate excess perishable food from your wedding, party, conference, or other gathering. Get information on how to conduct a food drive.
* Give time. Find volunteer opportunities near you. People are needed every day to sort, distribute and deliver food.
And here are two suggestions for cutting down on waste from my own life.
* Let people (children too) serve their own plates. My grandmother's rule was that we could always have seconds but had to eat whatever we put on our plates. Less waste saves money. If you don't need to save money, do so anyway and donate it to an organization that fights hunger.
* According to my mother, as a child my eyes were always bigger than my stomach when we'd go out to eat at the local cafeteria after church. After several weeks of me ordering food and not eating it, she decided to make me pay for the food I didn't eat out of my allowance. I stopped wasting food.
So when you sit down for your next meal, consider those who are without. Then do something to combat hunger in your community. It's a solvable problem, we just have to work at it. It's the right thing to do.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
