Recently, I learned that the largest purchaser of baby formula is our government through the WIC program to the tune of 850 million in 2010 alone. A fact that I find surprising especially since breast milk offers the best nutrition for growing babies. And yet, the government chooses to subsidize the purchase of formula for low income mothers in lieu of promoting natural way . While Republicans salivate at the opportunity to cut funding for Medicare and Social Security, I am starting to wonder if politicians really function in the best interest of constituents.
Currently, I myself am 3 weeks into breastfeeding my newborn. While I can not deny that it that requires serious effort, the benefits outweigh the challenges.
There is scientific proof that breastfeeding provides protection against allergies, SIDS, obesity, and also guards the mom against cancer. However, the voice to promote this option to new mothers is strangely silent. Could it be that the lobbyists who campaign on behalf of the infant formula industry have more impact on the decisions that representatives make than actual citizens?
First lady Michelle Obama received negative criticism while attempting to promote healthy eating habits for kids. Political opponents point out that the first lady's recommendation was the equivalent to the government dictating how parents should raise their kids. My question is doesn't the government already do that with laws to protect the safety of children? With childhood diabetes and obesity at an all time high. You would think it would be a no brainer to take steps to slow down the trend.
I dont know maybe it is just me...But it seems like more often than people like to accept the easy way of doing things. Since when did we become the nation of slackers? Could it be that our government has served to enable behavior rather than making people more self sufficient?
With their intoxicating combination of rhythms and vocals, Son Caribe provides a weekly dose of "Sabor Tropical" (better known as Latin flavor) to the dedicated patrons of 4Play nightclub every Wednesday.
The evening begans around 9 p.m. at 99-016 Kamehameha Hwy just above Dixie's Grill in Aiea. The admission fee of $10 guarantees a complimentary dance lesson in addition to the live band. Dancers, at varying levels of expertise, file in eager to learn some new steps courtesy of dance coach Philip Duong.
Though there are more women strapped in professional dance shoes than heels, the vibe is laid back. Partners rotate after practicing the steps to ensure that everyone has a chance to grasp the routine. After an hour the lights are dimmed, and the real fun begins.
As Son Caribe takes the stage, strobes lights begin to circle the room beckoning people to the dance floor. The selections of the band mix bachata, merengue, salsa and cha-cha-cha. The music balances the classics and original pieces accompanied by Spanish and English vocals. Patrons dance on their clothing clings to their bodies and pellets of sweat fell to the floor.
"It's like they know exactly what to play. When they played Pedro Navaja, I almost lost it. The song brought back so many memories of growing up Nueva York." Alma said.
It is no secret that Son Caribe is well versed in what keeps the crowd moving. They have been performing for quite some time. Their history is full of performances with the likes Poncho Sanchez, Tito Puente, and the queen of salsa Celia Cruz. It is no wonder that audiences from the Philippines to Korea request for them to perform there.
JustinAmorratanasuchad, a Seattle resident, recently lost his life on April 18th, from injuries sustained while filming a school project at Emerson college in Boston, Massachusetts. Authorities believe that Justin fell from the roof of a six story building after he lost his balance while backing up to get a shot. Amorratanasuchad was a junior studying film at Emerson. In an interview his brother lamented his passing and reflected on his passion to make films.
This is the second time in a matter of months that a film student lost his life in an effort to get a shot. While I am looking forward to doing great things with film. These incidents remind me to be cautious in my decisions as they could have serious repercussions. Whether you are setting up lighting, making sure cords are taped down, or simply shooting there is an element of danger. Though the university does its best to educate us students about safety we as students have to be more vigilant to avoid tragedies like this in the future.
R.I.P young film maker....You did not quite reach your full potential...but you will not be forgotten. Oprah say that tragedies like this one provide the world with valuable lessons. Maybe she is right as I am definitely more alert whenever I shoot.
I did not have to go far to find the topic for this blog. As a military spouse and mother, the government shut down weighs heavily on my mind. WTF!!! Troops don't question when asked to put their lives on the line to fight for this country. The least our government can do is ensure that they are paid for that service.
The politicians in Washington, D.C. share the blame for this situation. The Democrats failed to pass a budget when they had the power last year. And now, the Republicans are so drunk with power that they are leaning closely toward to shutting the government down. Rather than come to some sort of mature compromise. This is not just about my family. Their actions have wide ranging impacts that stretch much farther than the military.
With the world in such turmoil, one might expect the artists of the world would tap into the pain and anguish of others to create great works especially with music. Some of America's greatest works found ways to capture the sentiment of the people to motivate and express emotion. These days radio stations have become increasingly homogenized opting to play the same 20 songs all day long. So, I went on a search to find music that captivated me and stumbled upon Putamayo.
"Guaranteed to make you feel good" is what Putumayo World Music proclaims as its slogan. Since its inception, the company has been true to its word.
At Putumayo, the people truly care for the countries of the artists they spotlight. As a result, a portion of the proceeds go to support various aid programs. Listeners can enjoy the music and help. By bridging the gap between old world traditions and contemporary rhythms, the melodies, and sound allow the listener to embark on a cultural odyssey.
"One World, Many Cultures"
For those uncertain where to begin in Putumayo's catalog, "One World, Many Cultures" provides a sampling of the label's most popular artist collaborations. Ziggy Marley, Idan Raichel, Willie Nelson and Cheb Mami are just a few of the artists who lend their voices to the project. The music communicates a message of optimism and unity. The playlist is as upbeat as a child on a sugar high, yet it never comes down. It leaves the listener craving more.
"The Idan Raichel Project"
Originating in Israel, where many believe that God's chosen people reside, the Idan Raichel Project emerged three years ago. At 27, Idan Raichel lead an ensemble cast of musicians by creating and producing music. Like calming waters lapping against the beach of intolerance, the group's message resonates in the minds of people all over the world. In Israel alone, the album has been certified platinum three times. The troupe intermingles Ethiopian and Hebrew folk music, illustrating how collaboration between different ethnic tribes can yield remarkable results. The CD plays like a symbolic narrative that speaks to a higher power, tradition, history and the overwhelming power of love. People come away from CD clinging to the idea of prolonged peace in the Middle East.
"Acoustic Africa"
From the sun-kissed beaches along the Ivory Coast to the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, "Acoustic Africa" gives a glimpse into the true African spirit. The CD beckons listeners to abandon preconceived notions about the continent and experience the cultural safari that makes Africa so unique. These are different native tongues, countries and customs, but the message conveyed is one voice. With the sincerity of a malnourished babies' cry, the choirs touch the listener even if they don't necessarily understand the words.
"Radio Latino"
"Radio Latino" spotlights an eclectic mix of the most popular alternative and rock artists. Among the artists featured is Las Orishas, who was dubbed by Time magazine as "one of the 10 most important groups outside the U.S.". Hailing from the culturally rich island of Cuba, the group effortlessly blends Cuban son with hip-hop rhythms. Not to be outdone is Latin Grammy winner Jorge Moreno. Young and hip, giving a voice to American-born Cubans, Jorge tackles love triangles with a twist. With the intensity of spicy mojo chicken, the music draws in the listener, enveloping the senses. Other artists spanning from as far as Spain and Venezuela chime in, bringing the warmth and creativity of the Latin world to the masses.
Minister Louis Farrakhan, one of America’s most polarizing figures, offered a stern warning to the President during a recent radio address. The warning comes on the heels of NATO’s decision to intervene in Libya.
“Be careful how you manipulate the dissatisfaction in Libya and other parts of the Muslim world” stressed Farrakhan.
The warning addresses military operations that commenced on March 20,2011 led by President Obama with the assistance of NATO. The stated plan is to create a no fly zone in Libya. Military leadership refer to the exercise as Operation Odyssey Dawn which includes air strikes on strategic strongholds of the Libyan dictator Muammar Gadhafi.
Never one to shy away from his truth regardless if people label it as incendiary, Minister Farrakhan further explained that the US has ulterior motives for entering Libya.
“Don't tell me and wise Black people or White people that you're interested in Black suffering. Where were you in Rwanda? Where are you in the Congo? Why did you go to Darfur? Because oil is there! No, you don't want to save the Libyan people, that's your noble motive to hide your wicked agenda."
For those too young to remember, Farrakhan leads the Nation of Islam. It is an American group of Black Muslims that focus on Black Nationalism and commitment to what the Koran teaches. Elijah Muhammad founded the group in 1930. It spiked in popularity as blacks in the Civil Rights era searched for alternatives in leadership and spirituality. Most notable past members include Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali.
Renee Muhammad, a long time follower of the Nation offered additional insight into latest bone of contention for the Minister.
She declares that “[Minister Farrakhan] calls it like he sees it… He opens up every speech in the name of God”.
When questioned about the minister’s association with Muammar Gadhafi, she admits that Gadhafi is not without faults.
“He will have to answer to God for those faults. But what I am saying is that it is not America’s position to go and decide that he has to go…. That is like me telling you what you can do in your own house.”
With such damming evidence piling up on Gadhafi it is difficult to believe that he has any friends left. However, Minister Farrakhan has held steadfast in resolve to be loyal. When asked how can he continue justify that connection?
Renee Muhammad declares that people in general should not “make the evidence fit [the] premise.” Meaning rather than surmise that the explanation offered up as the truth, people must go out and seek the truth for oneself.
Renee Muhammad also points out that in the build up to Iraq, the government offered up evidence that did not come to fruition. She says, “the term red herring comes to mind…The government has done many things to get the people all flurried up about going to war. Bush lied about weapons of mass destruction.”
Whether or not the public agrees with the rhetoric espoused by Farrakhan, one has to admit that it seems a bit odd that calls for increased dialogue are coming not Nobel Peace prize winner President Obama but from Minister Farrakhan as evident by the impassioned plea to the US president.
“Why don’t you organize a group of respected Americans, and ask for a meeting with Gadhafi? You can’t order him to step down, and get out-who the hell do you think you are, that you can talk to a man that built a country over 42 years, and ask him step down and get out? Can anybody ask you? Well, well there’s a lot, now, [that are] going to ask you to step out of the White House, because they don’t want a Black face in the White House,” said Minister Farrakhan.”
The Minister’s warnings take on an almost ominous tone as he warns of the unrest in our back yard.
He cautioned. “Be careful, brother, how you handle this situation because it is coming to America! It has already started. Look in Wisconsin! Look in Ohio! Look at what’s going on in your country! And remember your words because the American people are rising against their own government: It’s not Muslims; it’s not Black people! It’s White militias that are angry with their government, and they are well armed. Are you going to tell them-’Put your arms down, and let’s talk it over peacefully?’ I hope so. But if not, America will be bathed in blood, not because Farrakhan said so, but because the dissatisfaction in America has reached the boiling point.”
Critics of the president’s actions come from both sides of the political aisle as many lament the possibility of the United States engaging in another war. The reasons not to engage are blaring. The economy is still in a precarious position. Unemployment is still high. We are already fighting two wars. In addition, the country is facing budget cuts that will severely impact communities across America. One can only hope cooler heads will prevail even if the message comes in an unanticipated manner.
First lady Michelle Obama received negative criticism while attempting to promote healthy eating habits for kids. Political opponents point out that the first lady's recommendation was the equivalent to the government dictating how parents should raise their kids. My question is doesn't the government already do that with laws to protect the safety of children? With childhood diabetes and obesity at an all time high. You would think it would be a no brainer to take steps to slow down the trend. 
