Rollin'

Tomorrow marks a milestone.  My website went live last Friday.  What is now hiphophopedealers.com has gotten positive feedback from the few friends and family who have viewed it and decided to respond.  It's encouraging to hear good things about what your time and energy has gone into.  I surprised myself with the courage to actually put it out there.  To put myself out there for ridicule and potentially harsh feedback.  

I'm going to continue working on it.  In hopes to improve it every day.  To make the site better and to make myself better.  To provide people who visit my site with a dose of inspiration...eventually finding a place on a larger stage where the message can reach anyone ready and willing to hear what I have to say...

Peace

Building blocks

This morning I received some pretty encouraging news. I'm working with an advisor for SCORE and he gave me an assignment to complete on tuesday. I turned the assignment in yesterday and today I received an email that said based on the presentation of my assignment I 'knocked it out of the park.' Now I understand the content of the assignment is what really matters but this retired entrepreneur just told me that I did a good job! I'm fucking charged! Hopefully the content is as good and I can build on this momentum.
Its amazing how we feel when we're encouraged. I'm ready for the next assignment. Even ready for him to tell me the content of the first assignment wasn't up to par...just so I can work to make it better and find out more information. Peace

If you're out there

I'm hard at work on the website for my upcoming itunes application.  I don't know much about creating or maintaining a website, but I've got a perspective that I felt needed to be communicated.  I'm hopeful that people find it interesting and come back for my daily quotes.

I figure that the easiest way is to tell my family to visit, then post it on facebook.  Once people visit, and leave comments or suggestions I can act accordingly.

Do I hope the response is beyond anything I could have imagined???  Hells yeah.  Are my hopes up????  Not at all.  After all, I'm just one man voicing his opinion in a world full of opinions.  And people with much more skill and talent than myself, at creating websites and mobile applications, are out there making much more significant moves.  I'm the underdog.  And I love it....

Peace

Asking for help

I've done what I think...what I hope is the right thing by asking for some help to get these ideas into motion.  I reached out to SCORE, and thankfully received a return call.  I've been given an assignment to complete and return to help the mentor guide us in the right direction.  I'm excited.  One regret throughout my life has been my reluctance to ask for help.  Nothing wrong with it, but I always wanted to do everything on my own.  This backfired on me more time than I care to remember.

Craige and I have an idea of what we want to happen.  We believe in those ideas and have the confidence to make them happen.  We just have to work hard and be smart.  And have patience...everything will fall into place.

I'm grateful to my wife for the support she shows me.  I've been unemployed for 2 months now, and not one time has she talked about what I should or could be doing.  She understands that the ideas I have could potentially change our lives in a way no 9-5 could ever do.  She's encouraged by the progress I've made and wants to see me happy and successful.  I love her.

Peace

Biz delayed

Our targeted start date has come and gone. We simply weren't ready...but we will be. If I can develop a business plan that works for us and get on task, we can start making money. Nothing to do but put in the work. The market is there, the idea is there. Our intentions are not to become a huge business but a springboard into other ventures that can also produce an income. Itunes apps, sneaker boutique, website, restaurant.
I've been listening to podcasts, reading books/magazines trying to get all of the information I can. Time to step out of my comfort zone and begin asking for help. I'll start with SCORE...to see what advice they can give me.

We need to find the right team!

Peace

biznaaaassss

It's not quite the eve of a new chapter in my life. But close enough that it's all I can think about. A chapter that begins with me going to work in Dayton, to try and create a successful small business. A delivery service providing food delivery to the downtown Dayton area. This venture is being started by me and my best friend. Both from Dayton, we grew up together. Meeting when we were about 10 yrs old. We were in a bowling league together, then went to the same middle and high school.
This is an exciting time. The excitement of the unknown. The excitement over the possibilities. Excitement about the number of customers we can help enjoy their time downtown during their work/school days. The thought of being able to say that I am an entrepreneur!
Within the next month I want to have a grant proposal written to try and get Segway's. For use in deliveries. It would be crazy cool and great for the environment and business. I think it's a great opportunity, but we'll see about getting the grant. If not I'll have to go to plan B(cause I'd prefer to be environmentally conscious and my vehicles are a Chevy Tahoe and Lincoln LS...not the most fuel efficient)
How cool would it be to see Segways rolling around Downtown Dayton making deliveries to UD or Sinclair Community College...what about the Schuster Center?

Time and the work we put in will determine if we make it...

Peace

Look out for Who Delivers Dayton and visit us at www.whodeliversdayton.com

If you scared, say you scared

Do people really believe that because President Obama is shaking hands and smiling with Chavez, that he's being pushed around? You're punks! Stop being scared of everything and everybody. When you can stand next to a man that has made unflattering comments about the US, shake hands with him and have a conversation that shows that you are a man. The answer to opposition isn't always war. Why can't the conservatives just say they're scared? They're scared to say it aloud, but every word they speak implicates them.

$14 dollar cheeseburger

I'm watching the news and they are interviewing a few people in VA. Asking them about how President Obama has done thus far and how he's affected their lives. One man mentions the increase in the minimum wage could result in him having to pay more for his cheeseburger....dude, are you so selfish that spending more money for your cheeseburger is a sacrifice you would rather not make, even when the result is that your waiter/waitress is making more money for him/herself? WOW...
Goes without saying that this tool voted for McCain.

What a job

It's been almost two weeks since I've been laid off, and I'm at the point where I'm beginning to enjoy it. Not having job to return to can take some getting used to, but I'm just about there and look forward to what's ahead. What's also been helpful is breaking down the financials with my wife. Understanding how our lives have to change and the sacrifices that are needed in order to live off one income for a little bit. Because we prepared ourselves mentally for the possibility of me being laid off, I think we are handling things pretty well. We are thankful for the things we do have and choose not to dwell on the things we don't have or may not be able to obtain in the immediate future. Life isn't about what you can buy...as much as our culture wants us to believe it is...it isn't. We don't have to be the ultimate consumer.

I'm learning quite a bit about myself during this time. Learning that my spirit is strong and despite the circumstances I'm choosing to remain positive and hopeful. Each day I become more comfortable with the idea of not returning to a 'regular' job. I'm enjoying doing things around the house. I'm enjoying making breakfast in the morning for my wife. Enjoying going to work out in the mornings and eating better(most days)...enjoying life.

Peace

In 20 yrs

I hope that being laid off has been the best thing that could have happened to me, other than getting married.

Peace

Gainfully unemployed

On May 2, 2009 I was laid off. From a job that I had come to hate. For an organization that was anything but a good fit for me. I had been praying for an out. An opportunity to do something that I can find happiness in.
That opportunity has now presented itself. What I do with the opportunity is up to me. I can remain conventional and seek another 9-5 or I can use my available time to chase my dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Do I have to balls to do it? Will the fear of the unknown keep me from taking the risk? Can I muster the strength to develop a plan that will lead me to achieving the success I hope for? Can I lead myself and others into believing in the possibilities and seizing the moment?

YES I CAN....

Peace

best and brightest

Hey America, you've seemed to miss something along the way to masterfully bringing down our ecomomy...the people who you've determined to be the smartest, often times aren't. Sure, they probably graduated from a great school. Likely got excellent grades and scored high on every test. They are indeed educated, but they are still stupid!
I argue the point with my wife pretty often. She talks about people her company has hired that end up being completely unacceptable. Sure they said what they needed to say in the interview. Sure they made their resume shine but that doesn't and shouldn't mask the fact that they are stupid...

I get that there has to be some type of system in place to track who does well and who doesn't. A way to forecast who will do a good job and who wouldn't. But at the same time, shouldn't we be able to identify and foster those who are smart in a way not recognized by an institution? I love learning...hate sitting in a class. I didn't like the idea of memorizing information for a test, just for the test oppossed to being taught something so that I could learn and find my own understanding.

The best and brightest fucked shit up. Let the other guys have a crack at it...they're the ones who keep America going and generally get shit right.

Peace

fun and bitches

Vegas baby! What a sight to see...the lights, the buildings, the people, the casino's and the women. My goodness the women are everywhere! All of them with their tits out. Looking for some shit to get into...wow.
That's not why I'm here though. My best friend got married yesterday. Joy and I missed the ceremony because of our whack ass cab driver, so we got there right after it was over. I can't believe he's married! I've known this dude for most of my life and can usually tell what's going on with him, but this was a shocker. He's happy though. And his wife seems like a really cool person(this is my second time meeting her). They seems to fit well together...
Last night, we missed the party. In addition to being here for the wedding its Craige's 30th bday...and we missed the party. We were too tired and broke. Plus I can never take the chance of running Joy too hard. The possible side effects aren't worth any party. I could tell she needed rest in order to be up for anything today, so we just laid in bed last night. I know its Vegas and we're supposed to be partying non stop but that's not an option for us.
We did party Friday night,which was cool and maybe we'll go out tonight?

Anyway, I'll surely be back. And next time with a lot more money!

Which way is up?

Today I gave serious thought to quitting my job. Not only because I'm sick of it, but also because I have some ideas that I would love to spend more time developing. I thought about the possibility of spending my days in control of my time. Being able to work when inspiration hit. Being able to 'play' when inspiration wasn't there. Ideal world, right? I was quickly brought back down to earth by the realization that I'm not prepared to choose to live on one income. Could it be done, yes. Do all parties agree that the time to try is now? Hell NO!
So, I'm going to have to find a way to harness my inspiration during non work hours. It's been a hard thing for me to do, but there is no other option. I've got a gang of ideas written down on paper but fall short of bringing them to life. This could very well have alot to do with the fact that I haven't found a way to commit enough time to them, so it's up to me to find a way to give them some time.
If I want it bad enough, I'll find a way...I can't keep working 9-5, so the only other option is to make something shake and start living by my own rules.

wow

My president is Black! Today, the world changed. Today my generation saw a leader they are behind and can believe in become the 44th president of the United States of America. He has us excited, hopeful, willing to serve, encouraged, motivated, compassionate, supportive, engaged, and ready to get to work in creating a society that is as it should be.
Viewing the events of the day on TV has been amazing. Seeing all of the people. Watching President Obama take the oath of office. Looking at Mrs. Obama, the children....a black family going into the White House...
We have a leader! Obama will lead US. He will lead the U.S. but he will lead US also. For four years at least, but his influence will shape the country and the world forever! We will not go back to the political figures of the past. We will not accept a leader who does not seek to include all of us in the progress of this country. We will no longer accept a leader who is unwilling to listen to different views/ideas. No longer will we elect a person who lacks compassion and character. No more polarizing figures. No more leaders who are not of the people.
Obama has taken the first official step in shinning his light on the world...and we are so ready for some light!

No other option than for me to do big things....the impossible is possible!

AFC North

As a fan of the Cleveland Browns it pains me to watch the Steelers and especially the Ravens, play in this conference championship game. However, I remain hopeful. That our new coach can bring in a new vision and understanding of what needs to be done to make the Browns a winner. Update our uniform, have a good...make that great draft, sign some quality free agents and beat the fucking Steelers and Ravens in 09!

Who's in charge

I've come to realize that its okay to question people in power. It's okay to ask them questions because they not only have a responsibility to provide an answer, they also need to know that someone is holding them accountable. I've always been reluctant to ask questions. Not sure why, but that's how its been.
Anyway, going forward especially during my remaining time working for the county, I'm going to ask questions! Who, what, when, where, why. Somebody has to be made aware that shit aint working out right. Shit sucks actually. And its possible that people in leadership positions just don't know...we can't expect them to know everything. Nothing says that just because I'm not in management I don't have worth while ideas. Ideas that deserve considerationan even implementation.
They are going to know who I am by the time I leave...cause I'm going to start calling out everyone and letting them know they need to be held accountable.

Thankfully unthankful

I find it funny....and at the same time, upsetting, that I'm stuck in a job that I don't like. During a time when finding another job is virtually impossible. I'm employed with my counties local government. Hit by lay-offs while trying to assist the growing number of people who need assistance. Morale is low, nobody is motivated to do anything 1) because they don't know if their job is next to be cut 2) they know that no matter how good a job they do, there won't be any type of reward 3) they are being asked to do more than they have ever been asked to do, but haven't been giving the direction on how the tasks at hand can possibly by accomplished.
There has been an endless stream of conversations about those who have lost their jobs, not too many on the people who are still working but are miserable at their jobs and can't find new one's.

Don't confuse me, I'm thankful to still be employed. That doesn't mean that I have to enjoy what I do.

My only wish is that I had an opportunity to find employment elsewhere. Doing something that I at least could find some fulfillment in....

Tomorrow means what

Today, our lame ass administration began the task of reducing the budget(i.e. laying people off). We received an email this morning, suggesting that today would be the beginning of the layoffs. They didn't tell us who, just that bad news was coming....for someone. Cuts are going to go well into December. So, until the beginning of the year I'll be more uncomfortable at work than I have been. I have no idea if I'll be laid off. No clue. So everyday I'm expected to get up, go into work and act like the place isn't crumbling around me.
How do you work with knowing that you might not have a job tomorrow? That's a question I can't answer. What I can do. What I will do, is look for another job. Something that could potentially sustain me until I'm in the position to open up the sneaker boutique. Something that I won't miss when we move....
This financial crisis is exposing the inadequate leadership of soo many companies, states, cities, counties. The reality is that many of the people we have entrusted our leadership in have failed us. Part of this is our fault. Our fault for not asking more questions and demanding more answers. Not demanding accountability. And because we didn't require that someone be accountable, now we all are.
Here in Ohio. Seems like our leaders have only done a good job of one thing. Keeping us behind the 8-ball. We're never ahead of the curve. Never innovative. Never leader of the pack.

At the county, we have no idea what the plan is after all these job cuts. Nobody can tell me what positives we plan on bringing about in the midst of this troublesome time. Nobody knows what's next. How do we do the work with less people? What will we be asking from employees, going forward? How will we keep them happy? How will we provide service? How will service improve? How will we innovate? How will we retain quality employees? How will we attract needed employees? What responsibilities will the customer be asked to increase? What will we stop doing harder and do smarter? How will our leaders lead? What will the employees get for their work? How will we be rewarded? When do things improve? What happens when they do improve? What if things don't improve? When will we use technology to our advantage? When will we start doing business like a business?

You don't matter anymore

I watched a bit of The O'Reilly Factor today. Only to hear from Mr. O'Reilly and his fans, how they are feeling. The overwhelming sentiment was that Mr. O'Reilly and his viewers are fearful. He used the word, fear, multiple times during my brief viewing. Asking his guest, Karl Rove, if he was scared of President-elect Barack Obama. O'Reilly expressed that listeners to his radio show were fearful of an Obama presidency.

Fear, Mr. O'Reilly? Really?

You're fearful, when the new majority is exuberant, excited, encouraged, hopeful, thankful, supportive and unbelievably joyous!

Mr. O'Reilly how does fear feel to you?

Bill, welcome to the world of the minority. Welcome to a place where the majority doesn't think you matter. A majority rule that has not adequately provided health care to all. A majority rule that has done a horrible job of educating the youth. A majority who has dropped the ball on the economy, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, energy independence and healthcare. A majority that pays all of it's non-white males a lesser wage for the same work. A majority that sat back and watched as Katrina destroyed the lives of so many.

The list of the ill's the old majority is responsible for is without end. So, I will not mention any other.

Mr. O'Reilly, if you are scared. Welcome to the feeling that all minorities have felt, while people who share your ideas have controlled this country.

Your time is over. Your ideas don't rule anymore.