ESWA Fights For Change

TRENTON- Over the years I've come across a number of local organizations that are doing some very positive things. Men of HOPE, Father's and Men United for a Better Trenton, TSPAG (Trenton Special Parents Advocacy Group), and Catholic Charities are just a few that I have encountered and have helped a lot of people including my family. But just recently, I have connected with a volunteer organization of a different type and that organization's name is Eastern Service Workers Association or ESWA for short.

This all-volunteer run organization that takes no government funding and is working diligently to change economic conditions for the lowest paid workers (i.e. individuals that do domestic, temporary, seasonal or warehouse work that often times can't afford health care and other basic needs due to poverty).

One way that ESWA addresses it's members poverty conditions is by offering an 11 point benefit plan
that is run and managed by volunteer members of the organization. The benefit plan is free of charge and provides members with access to food, clothing, advocacy to prevent electricity shutoffs, medical and legal informational sessions, etc. The benefit plan however is not a long term solution to the poverty conditions that members face but it is a method that helps members get the basic things that they need that can enable them to come together and organize to fundamentally change their economic conditions.

Currently, the organization is working on it's Back to School Drive as many of it's members struggle with covering the cost for school supplies.

The organization is always looking for more part time and full time volunteers. There are a variety of ways you can help. Every Saturday the organization does it's door to door canvass in Trenton to get an idea of what issues workers are facing and how ESWA can help. On Wednesdays, the organization does it's advocacy sessions for members to help them with electricity shutoffs. On other days, the organization does mail outs, poster design, newspaper design and phoning sessions. In other words, there are multiple ways to help. Even if you have little to no experience volunteering, it is okay, ESWA has both part time and full time organizers that will be there with you to provide you with on the job training.

For more information on how you can get involved, feel free to call the office at 609-695-9562. Or you can stop by the office located at 6 W End Avenue, Trenton, New Jersey seven days a week.

Art & Violence in the Capital City

TRENTON- Even as the city of Trenton is not solely a community riddled with violence and destruction, that violence must be talked about at some point or another or else we may risk ignoring the pink elephant in the room.  

Indeed, given the amount of senseless violence here in the city, I thought it would be fitting to discuss, in my humble opinion, one of the most powerful creative forces or outlets known to mankind. Drum roll please, what I'm referring to ladies and gentlemen is ART.

Art is defined by Oxford Dictionaries as "the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture,  producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power".

Given the definition above, one can sense that art can take on both transformative and cathartic dimensions. Even though my educational background and specialization is in industrial and organizational psychology, I undoubtedly recognize the positive psychological effects that art can have on a community beleaguered by senseless violence and other societal ills (poverty, failing school systems, and high unemployment).

Indeed, evidence shows that artistic engagement can lead to improved moods, emotions, and psychological states (see Stuckey and Nobel, 2010 for more info). Moreover, it has been said that art can possibly curb stress levels and depression.

Even as there are many passionate supporters of the arts, there are still those that view it as vandalism when it is used in public spaces for murals and graffiti art. 

Despite what the critics have to say, I am grateful that there is rich art right here within the city. Every year Trenton holds its well-known outdoor art gallery event,  Art All Night. The city also holds various workshops and classes on art at the Art Works building located downtown. We also have the Trenton museum, Mill Hill Playhouse Theater, and numerous murals throughout the city. Even recently, a new art exhibit entitled Trenton Art Puzzle, emerged that showcased artwork from over 200 individuals at the city's BSB Gallery. 

It is art that acts as a form of inspiration and ultimately a constructive way to communicate about life around us. Lauren Della Monica echoed this point when she said that artists have traditionally used their work "...as tools for documenting social, political, and economic conditions". 

All one needs to do is take a stroll through the city and one can see all the beauty, creativity and imagination that exists here. For without art, there is no way to imagine an alternative universe or way of being. Art does not accept the status quo. Oh to the contrary, it resists or challenges it. Where others only see problems, artists or creative types see opportunities. Opportunities to improve and enhance the community. Artists or creative types see the opportunity to rise to the occasion, shake things up, and ultimately make a difference when everything else around them appears to be coming apart at the seams. In sum, artists do not curse the darkness. Rather, these individuals have the courage to light a candle, no matter how dark things get. 

So, I encourage you, dear reader to flex your artistic or creative muscles, think outside the box, and be a part of the solution. Don't accept the status quo. Let us use our creative powers to leave the world a little better than we left it. Whether its volunteering at your local community center, giving art lessons, or creating a space where people can come to enrich or enhance their lives, all of these things can make a difference. 

For more on the artistic resources that the city has to offer, click here.

Trenton: What's Going On???

TRENTON- Its been a while since my last post,  but boy oh boy have there have been some things going on in the Garden State's capital city lately. As the old saying goes, some things change, but at the same time, some things stay the same. 

For starters, just this summer, Art All Night 2018, a well-known arts and music festival, was abruptly put to an end one evening when suddenly a mass shootout broke out leaving one dead and many wounded. In the midst of this, a new mayor has also emerged coupled with a few new council members. Even in the middle of all this political change, we still see senseless violence in the city. 

Just a few Saturday's ago, Trentonian correspondent, Sulaiman Abdur-Rahman, reported that Eric Rue, 34, was shot and killed at Championship Bar in the city. This young man was less than a year younger than myself. Others were hurt and wounded while the city was celebrating its community back to school events. 

This state of affairs leaves many wondering "what's next?" or "why stay here?" or perhaps even the proverbial "Trenton can't have nothing!" declaration. In any event, something is amiss within the city and a change definitely needs to come as Sam Cooke famously sung. 

The new mayor, Reed Gusciora, has suggested that we need to increase the size of the police force, others have stated that we need better parenting, while others are saying we need more after-school activities or nonviolence education programs. Despite the merit of these ideas, I think a multi-pronged approach is needed. 

In my estimation, the way forward will consist of all the above mentioned ideas, plus more.

In order to adequately address the violence in our midsts, I think we will also need to protest and petition our local leaders and/or work with community activists on creative ways forward. Civic and community engagement is critically important. Moreover, I believe we will also need to establish more partnerships among civic and political groups as this can foster more ideas and creative thinking. Additionally, I am all for encouraging more volunteering with at-risk youth as the youth sometimes need someone to show them that someone really cares and is committed to helping them stay on the right path.

I think another area to focus on is ensuring that illegal weapons do not end up in the hands of the wrong people. One way of doing this is through a gun buyback program. For more information on gun buyback programs, click here.

I also think we need to somehow address barriers to jobs and education as idle hands are a devil's workshop. Lastly, I think its going to be imperative that we provide more educational opportunities for parents.

The main reason that I am highlighting the importance of a more collaborative rather than individual effort to curb the violence in our community is to underscore how critical teamwork is when working on any meaningful endeavor. Indeed, there is wisdom and truth in the saying that, "teamwork makes the dream work". In order to move the needle and make a difference within our community, we will all need to play a role in ameliorating this plaguing social problem.

So, I urge members of the community to band together, protest the status quo, and create a better Trenton free of violence and mayhem. It won't be easy, but with commitment and determination, I am confident that we can achieve real change together.

Duncan Harrison Enters Trenton Mayoral Election

TRENTON-- As the city of Trenton ushers in a new mayoral election, more and more candidates are entering the race. On Saturday morning, Councilman Duncan Harrison, announced his candidacy for mayor of the Garden State's capitol city, at the city's Free Public Library Trentoniana Room. 

The race to the mayor's office is gearing up to be a crowded space much like previous mayoral elections. In 2014, there were 6 mayoral candidates on the ballot. Currently, there are 10 individuals that have announced their candidacy. Those candidates include Assemblyman Reed Gusciora, Paul Perez, a 2014 runoff loser to the current mayor (Eric Jackson), Councilman Alex Bethea, community activist Darren “Freedom” Green,  Mercer County Deputy Clerk Walker Worthy, Elissa Horan, Michael Silvestri, Annette Lartigue and Jason Arnold. 

Harrison, 32, has been on city council for the past 4 years and has been vocal on gun crime, litter, and the water crisis in Trenton. In his announcement speech, Harrison laid out his vision for Trenton and noted that he wants to see a revolution and renaissance in the city where there is an efficient, effective, and compassionate government that is business oriented. 

Mercer County Loan Fund Program

Dear Readers,

I hope this post finds you well. As you may already know, I am still working on my dissertation in hopes of earning my PhD in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology, believe you me, its a long story that I will someday tell you, but nevertheless, I digress. For more information on my dissertation, please click here.

Even though I have not had a great deal of time to dedicate to this blog, I still wanted to share with you more information on how you can develop your small business or entrepreneurial dreams.

Through a random Google search that I conducted looking for information on entrepreneurship and small business in the larger Trenton, Mercer County area, I stumbled across a resource that the Mercer County Office of Economic Opportunity is offering to its residents.

The Mercer County Office of Economic Opportunity is offering a Loan Fund that provides anywhere from $25,000 to $125,000 in aid to start-up and expanding businesses in Mercer County. To access the application, please click here.

The funds can be used for real estate, furniture, equipment, inventory, marketing and advertising, among other things related to your business. To apply for these funds, there is a $30 application fee that is payable to the Regional Business Assistance Corporation.

The application should be submitted through the Mercer County Office of Economic Opportunity.

The loan package requirements are as follows:

The business must be located in Mercer County

Completed & signed application along with $30 application fee

Three years of personal income tax returns and W2’s

Three years of business tax returns (if already in business)

Business plan for all start-ups

Financial projections
Copy of draft lease (if applicable)

Evidence of owner’s contribution to the project

Copy of operating agreement for all corporations and LLC/P’s

Evidence that the business is current on all state payroll and sales taxes

For more information on this loan program, please click here.

Entrepreneurship & Everyday Practice

Dear Readers,

I know it's been some time since I have last posted to the blog. Over the last few months I have been working on my dissertation in hopes of obtaining a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. For more info on my dissertation, please click here. 

But anyway, even as I am dedicating a good portion of my time to my dissertation, I still wanted to share some content with you regarding a topic that is near and dear to me, you know it, it's entrepreneurship.

Below you will find a link to a Forbes article by John Greathouse that I stumbled across while reading up on entrepreneurship in the news. 

This article may be useful to you if you are wondering how you can apply or practice your entrepreneurial skills before you launch your own small business or other venture.

For more info on the article, click here.

Why Entrepreneurship Always Takes More Time Than You Expect

Why Entrepreneurship Always Takes More Time Than You Expect

Dear Readers,

I stumbled across an informative article on entrepreneurship that I think makes an important point if one is interested in becoming an entrepreneur.

The article discusses time management and entrepreneurship. Indeed,  managing our time is critical to success in being an effective entrepreneur, leader, or what have you.

I hope this info helps. Stay tuned for more advice and tips on pursuing one's entrepreneurial aspirations...

Lessons from Thanksgiving

TRENTON-As I sit back and reflect on this past Thanksgiving Day I look at entrepreneurship and I see how this day of giving and expressing gratitude somehow has connections with entrepreneurism. 

Indeed, any entreprenuer that's worth his or her salt, understands that in order to stay in business, get into business, or to do well in business, requires a certain degree of gratitude and thankfulness toward not only your customers, but your suppliers, your sponsors, your employees, your friends, etcetera, etcetera, etc.

When I reflect on the gratitude one has for these various stakeholders involved in the entrepreneurial life cycle, it seems one can better cope with the various stressors of being an entrepreneur. Stressors such as wearing many different hats at the same time, i.e. finding a profitable location for your business, marketing and selling your products and services, being your organization's accountant, etc.

Now I am not naive enough to think that showing or expressing gratitude somehow erases an entrepreneur's life challenges, but I do firmly believe that expressing gratitude can help one cope with some of the stressors of entrepreneurship. There is even research to back to this up. For more info on this, see Elizabeth Heubeck's WebMD article by clicking here.

So I leave you, dear reader, with a few jewels of wisdom that I think may help you as you pursue your entrepreneurial dreams and aspirations.

Being in business is better than not being in business, so be thankful, point blank period.

When businesses come and go all the time, it is a beautiful thing to have your shop doors still open.

Serving others is an honor in any capacity, so be thankful.

Indeed, as the bible says, whoever will be the greatest among you shall be your servant (Matthew 20:26). Bottom line: even if it does not feel that way sometimes, serving others is both an honor and privilege.

Providing opportunities for others is a blessing, so be thankful.

Being an entrepreneur creates opportunities for others i.e. jobs, a source of identity, a place to go to, etc. Entrepreneurs can put meat on the table for others, metaphorically or literally speaking, either way these individuals add value to our society with their contributions.  

Lo and behold, as you can see above, I think when you have a spirit of gratitude for what you do, it seems that one can better cope with the 'slings and arrows of outrageous misfortune' as Hamlet talked about. 

So dear reader, in the spirit of thanksgiving, I encourage you and leave with you with this message, like I encourage myself, to sit back and revel in the beauty of now (this moment right now) and be grateful for it, even with its challenges, stressors, and setbacks. Indeed, it is better to sing in the rain than curse the darkness (and trust me I am learning this as I go along as well).

Thank you for reading and listening dear readers...

Me & Entrepreneurism

Ladies and gents, boys and girls, with this whole entrepreneurism series that I have started, I know you may be wondering what do I really know about entrepreneurism.

You maybe asking yourself questions like : "what does this guy know, he never ran his own business?" or "how much can he tell us about being a successful entrepreneur if all he has ever done is interview other business owners or entrepreneurs in the community?"

Well, I think these sorts of questions are definitely fair and legitimate. I have to admit that my understanding is based solely on the books I have read and the interviews I have conducted. The criticism is clear: book knowledge has value, but there's nothing like getting an education from the good ol' School of Experience.  

However, my dear readers, what you may not know, is that my understanding of entrepreneurship can also be attributed to seeing both of my parents engage in entrepreneurial activities during my childhood and also during my adult life. Indeed, I picked up a few pointers from them as I watched them do what they do, so to speak.

I saw my mother independently sell homemade skin and hair products products growing up and I also witnessed my father sell clothing, jewelry, and other miscellaneous merchandise as a vendor. Now don't get me wrong, neither my father nor my mother were tycoons by any stretch of the imagination. But they were their own bosses, which to me is by far the most attractive part of being of an entrepreneur. 

I learned a great deal from these two entrepreneurs, my parents, that is and I wanted to share one of the takeaway messages I got from them that may help others pursue their dreams of being an entrepreneur. 

My parents taught me that with entrepreneurship everything starts with taking inventory of what your current knowledge, skills, and abilities are. Bottom line, the idea here is that you have to know yourself and what you bring to the table first before you go out there and really start sowing your entrepreneurial oats. 

In the case of my father, he knew that he was the type of guy that valued African American culture and had a knack for designing jewelry. Likewise, my mother knew that helping others was her gift. She also knew that she was knowledgeable about herbs and alternative remedies. 

Both my mom and pop took this inner information and then looked outward to see if there were any gaps or opportunities in the marketplace that could be filled with their knowledge, skills, and abilities. This is a big part of what entrepreneurs do. They study and understand themselves first then they go on to study and try to understand the world outside of them. 

So, I leave you all with this one tip: go out there and reach for the stars, pursue your dreams, but first and foremost, open your eyes, go within, engage in self-discovery, determine what your strengths are, and find out what you bring to the table. 

For further information on self-discovery, click here.  

Dr. King & Entrepreneurism

In commemoration of Dr. King's life and legacy, and my recent focus on entrepreneurship, I wanted to take a moment to not only remember a great American, but also to illustrate how Dr. King's life was in my humble opinion, a testament to many of a successful entrepreneur's characteristics or attributes.

Below you will find a list of some of those characteristics:

Dr. King had a fierce sense of urgency, not complacency.

During the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. King didn't sit idly by whenever he saw an injustice. During the Civil Rights Movement, he took a stand and got involved with a fierce sense of urgency.

Indeed, he organized others, made speeches, and conducted all sorts of rallies. Like Dr. King, it is important for entrepreneurs to act with a sense of urgency when it comes to finding a need in the marketplace and filling it with their knowledge, skills, and abilities. Real entrepreneurs take day to day steps to get their small business venture off the ground whether it be doing market research on what needs are not being met in the marketplace or whether it is developing a business plan, entrepreneurs take action.

Dr. King saw opportunities, not obstacles. He focused not on his fears, but on his faith in his vision of a better tomorrow.

Indeed, Dr. King was not deterred by the obstacles he and others in the fight for civil rights faced. He knew that there were going to be naysayers and other individuals that would fight his efforts tooth and nail, but that didn't stop him.

Indeed, Dr. King was driven not by these fears and anxieties but by his deep faith in a better tomorrow. Like Dr. King, entrepreneurs will face obstacles as well. They may face obstacles like not getting the funding or support they need to get their small business venture off the ground. They may encounter obstacles like working long hours and not seeing their friends and family as much as they would like. But true entrepreneurs do not let these obstacles deter them. Real entrepreneurs soldier on despite the obstacles. 

Dr. King had a compelling vision of a better tomorrow.

Despite the grim realities of his era (injustice, war, poverty), Dr. King envisioned a better tomorrow where individual's would not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

As entrepreneurs, it is likewise important that we develop a clear and compelling vision for our small business endeavors. To understand how to craft a vision for your small business, ask your self basic questions such as what makes you cry? What makes others cry? What makes you smile? What makes others smile? For more information on crafting a vision, click here. 

Dr. King was a constant ambassador of his vision for a better tomorrow.

Like any entrepreneur that is worth his or her salt, Dr. King understood the importance of constantly spreading the word about his vision of a better tomorrow through his powerful speeches and eloquent sermons. Everywhere he would go, Dr. King would discuss the importance of his vision of a Beloved Community.

Its equally important for entrepreneurs to constantly share with others their small business vision. Through sharing with others, the aspiring entrepreneur may enlist the help of others who can play vital roles in the success of their small business venture. 

Dr. King kept his eye on his vision despite setbacks and challenges.

Dr. King's was arrested more than 20 times. His home was bombed and yet he kept his focus on his vision of a better tomorrow. I know what you may be saying, most entrepreneurs don't have to deal with their homes being bombed, and I get that, but please don't miss the point I'm making here, which is that no matter what setback you face, the idea is to stay focused on your goal, no matter what.

This is true with entrepreneurism as well. Sure, you may not have got that small business loan from the bank like you wanted, but that should not stop you from continuing to pursue your small business dream. It just means you may have to try an alternative route to your goal. Even though the strategy may change, keep your eye on the prize or ultimate goal of your endeavors.

For more information on how to start your small business, check out these resources that I have put together by clicking here. 

Entrepreneurial Focus

For some reason or another, this time of the year, I'm on this whole start your own business, go for dreams type of thing. So, the next couple of blogs will revolve around this concept of focus and how it applies to the world of entrepreneurship.

Indeed, from interviewing different small business owners and studying entrepreneurship as a whole over the years, I have found that being focused is such a fundamental part of being a successful entrepreneur that separating these two ideas would be as unwise as bringing a knife to a gunfight.

As an entrepreneur, if you are not focused, there is a big chance you may miss out different opportunities that could be capitalized on. 

As a case in point, before I started this blog years ago, I noticed that the Trentonian's blog center had business blogs, but they had no blogs specifically for small business in the city of Trenton. So, after observing this, and reflecting on my skill set and research interests, I found it to be a no-brainer to start a blog that would fill this void I noticed. And then Anwar's Reflections was born.

The bottom line here as an entrepreneur, it is critically important that you keep your eyes and ears open for gaps or opportunities in the marketplace you may be able to fill with your knowledge, skills, and abilities. So below are some things you can do to develop an entrepreneur's laser like focus:

Use Google, Use Google, Use Google

Here the idea is to constantly search the Internet to find gaps or opportunities in the marketplace that you may be able to capitalize on. I'm not saying you have to stop 'Googling' who said what on the latest episode of Empire or American Idol.

All I'm saying is that if you're entrepreneurially inclined, its vitally important to set aside a little bit of time during your day to day Googling to see if there any opportunities in the marketplace you can take advantage of. If you need help perusing or surfing the Internet, visit these sites for more information, click here or here. 

Watch, read, or listen to the news paying particular attention to gaps or opportunities in the marketplace

When taking in your daily dose of what's going on in your world on television, radio, newspaper, or the Internet, don't just pay attention to the latest murder or robbery (unless that's your thing), instead keep your eyes open for different gaps or opportunities in the marketplace.

This could be something as simple as noticing that a group or organization is in need of a service or product that you can bring to the market with your knowledge, skills, and abilities. I can't say it enough, keep your eyes and open. Stay focused.

Talk to your friends,family members, and co-workers about your entrepreneurial interests

While catching up with your friends and family members on the phone, in-person, through social networks, and what have you, set aside a little time to mention your small business idea and where you are at with it.

Your friend or family member may have an idea or suggestion that you never thought of that can point you in the right direction as it relates to kick-starting your small business venture.

Small Business Resources

TRENTON-- Since this blog started out with a focus on small business, but somewhere along the way, got focused on community issues, I thought it would be good to go back to my roots and share with everyone some important resources I found that may help aspiring small business owners as they take their business idea and seek to turn it into a reality. 

So, I did some research online, and below you will find some of the resources I came up with, I hope this helps, happy holidays:

SBA or the Small Business Administration

This organization provides a wealth of information on how to start your business and get funding for your start-up. This site also provides information on business opportunities and different laws and regulations related to small businesses. To access the Small Business Administration's official website, click here. 

BizFilings

This organization has a small business guide that walks you through many of the practical things an entrepreneur or small business owner has to go through when launching a business. It also gives you critical tax information about starting and maintaining a business venture. To access BizFilings website, click here.

Google Docs

This site can provide you with spreadsheet software similar to Microsoft Excel or Word. These programs can help you better manage your business without the extra cost of other software. Both of these spreadsheets can prove to be integral to your small business needs when you are starting out. To access Google Docs, click here. 

IRS (Internal Revenue Service)

This site or organization can give you a wealth of information on how to define your business entity. It can also give you information on how to stay current on tax laws that affect business owners or entrepreneurs. Along with the IRS, its also important to refer to your state's taxation department or division to ensure you are registered with them properly as well. To access the Internal Revenue Service's website, click here.

U.S. Department of Labor: Office of Small Business Programs

This organization promotes opportunities for small business, especially disadvantaged businesses. To access the agency's website, click here. 

Bottom Line:

So, whether you are thinking about starting a barber shop, pizza place, or antique boutique, you as an up and coming entrepreneur are going to need various tools to cover all of your bases. Indeed, starting a business can be both rewarding and challenging.

Indeed, with your own business, you get to be your own boss, work your own hours, and pursue something that you may have always been passionate about. Can't get any better than that right, well...wrong. The other side of running a business involves its drawbacks or challenges. For example, having your own business will probably mean long hours, lots of homework or research, and a long term perspective. But nevertheless, by having your own business, the pros outweigh the cons. So, if you are feeling that entrepreneurial itch, go for it, what are you waiting for??? Now is the time, the sky is the limit....

Hell Hath No Fury Like A Nation Scorned

By Neisha Kelly

Black America is scorned.

We are sick and tired of turning the other cheek. It is like backing a cat in a corner and telling it not to attack. If black lives matter, "when will the senseless genocide of the black man cease?"

The black man is becoming extinct at the hands of those that are there to serve and protect. Is anyone policing the police?

The days since the no indictment verdict of Darren Wilson have been infused with anger, backlash, and outrage. We as a people are disappointed in our judicial system. It has adopted a shoot-first and ask questions later defense.

How many more of our men will succumb to someone’s innate fear?

The fear-mongers are hiding behind the justice system. When President Obama gave his speech Black America went numb and deaf. We are so tired of the backpedaling we want justice and peace is that too much to ask for.

I want you to know that I am not some angry person writing from a place of vengeance. But I want my nephews and god-son to know that their lives do matter. I am holding them a little closer at night.

I wrote a poem to honor Michael Brown.

Holding you a little Tighter Tonight

I am holding you a little tighter tonight
We are both hurting inside
We hurt because our people hurt
We hurt because when there is no justice, there is often no peace
I am holding you a little tighter tonight
Please hold me a little longer too
These tears that are falling so fast I cannot catch them
They are overflowing like a damn that cannot be stopped
Pouring out me of me like rain that brings floods
We are hurting
We are angry
We are disappointed
We want to be avenged

Yet violence is not the answer
So let me hold you a little tighter
A little longer
For tomorrow is not promised
Freedom of speech is such a farce
We cannot speak what we feel
We cannot shout how badly we hurt

Who will listen?

I am holding you a little tighter tonight
I pray I can hold onto you and have faith that these wrongs will be made right
Until then stay safe and secure in my arms
As I hold you a little tighter tonight!

When will black lives matter? Why is society so terrified of the black man? Why is he seen as such an ominous presence? I guess it goes back to the concept that we hate what we don’t understand. Fear runs deep on both sides of the law. Tensions run deep and distrust of the judicial system is at an all-time high.

How many more lives will be lost due to fear? The black man is an endangered species in our world today. He is being cut down at marginal proportions. Yet we are asked to trust our judicial system to work for all equally.

Tears roll down my face as I am disappointed that our judicial system stands back and allows black lives to be systematically annihilated. There is genocide in Black America and if this epidemic continues it will wipe us out completely. Who will save us?

How did the no indictment verdict leave you feeling? Do black lives matter? Share your thoughts below.

Neisha Kelly is the intrepid author of the blog, "Cultivation of You".

The Right Way to Tackle the Work Day

By Anwar's Reflections Guest Blogger Neisha Kelly

Do you often dread the work day? Do you experience the blues? Well, you are not alone in that suffering. But here are ten ways to get ready for the work day in a positive mindset:

 1.   Get to work an hour early: I know this sounds crazy. But I like this one because it gives me time to mentally prepare for the day ahead. And I don’t have to jump right into work mode. I call it my power hour before work.

2.     Read something positive: Whether it is an affirmation or an uplifting article read it. It will motivate you and keep you on a more positive tract throughout the day. I try to read something positive daily during my power hour.

3.    Set a list of goals for break and lunch: Lists tasks you have to do throughout the day and assign the time to tackle them during break and lunch time. It will gives you both a sense of purpose and accomplishment at the same time.

4.    Eat breakfast: Breakfast can definitely help you and keep your head in the game.

5.    Do your hardest tasks in the morning: When I see a large pile on my desk I tackle it immediately. I make it a game with the clock trying to see how fast I can clear my desk. Sounds corny but it helps keep my momentum going.

6.    Pick your clothes out the night before: There is nothing worse than scrambling for something to wear in the morning. The more organized you are in the morning, the better you will feel.

7.    Get up an hour early: This will help you wake up refreshed and motivated. I like this one because I can prepare for the unexpected this way and do not have to forget things by rushing.

8.     Pep Talk: Give yourself a positive pep talk, or say a prayer before leaving out the door or both. Say something that will stick with you throughout the day.

9.     Listen to music: Music is a great motivator.

10.  Think happy thoughts: Sounds corny but it really helps the day run smoothly. Remember watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become your actions. Watch your actions; they become habit. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny. --Lao Tzu

Yes, these are tips I actually utilize. I am not saying everyday is great, but each day gets greater when I use these tips. 

What do you think? Are these tips helpful? Are there more tips that I need to add to the list? Let me know by sharing your thoughts below.

Neisha Kelly is the Editor-In-Chief of the blog The Cultivation of You.

To Pay or Not Pay Sick Leave? That is the Question...

TRENTON-- What in the world are we doing? Are my eyes deceiving me, no it can't be??? Can it??? Not too long ago, I was reading Dan Dodson's blog and an article from the Trentonian that mentioned how there possibly could be a ballot question, put before the city's electorate this November, that would ask voters whether ALL, not some, but ALL, private Trenton small businesses, have to pay their employees sick leave.

When I first came across this news story, I thought to myself, what the heck are we talking about, this can't be a wise move in the city of Trenton, a place that boasts not of excellent schools and a low crime rate, but rather a failing school system and an unacceptable crime rate. I mean quite frankly, the last thing people would call Trenton right now is Club Fed, a place people are pushing and shoving to gain access to or invest in.

But I said to myself, before I draw any conclusions, I felt the need to step back and reflect on what this ballot question could mean from the perspectives of the different parties involved.

On the one hand, first I thought of the perspective of an employee from your typical privately owned Trenton-based business. This poor guy or gal may feel like they have been completely left in the lurch because they have been put in that unfortunate position where they sometimes have to choose between working while sick and paying rent or even risk calling out thereby jeopardizing their employment.

I mean I can definitely understand where they are coming from because who really wants to be in a position where you can't afford to get sick, believe, you, me, that type of situation stinks! So, it makes complete sense from their perspective to speak up early and often about this important measure. Labor groups and other coalitions like the SEIU, the CWA, New Jersey Working Family Alliances and New Jersey Citizen Action have all backed this initiative to ensure that small business employees receive sick pay.

However, if we shift perspectives and look at things from the lens of  your average run of the mill business owner, it sounds as though these individuals are singing from an entirely different sheet of music. Indeed, small business owners at the end of the day want to maximize profit and minimize cost, point blank, period. These merchants aim to save money at any cost and may justifiably feel that they are already pay enough in taxes and fees to the city and that they should not pay City Hall one more red cent. From this perspective, I can't knock these small business owners. I mean, who really wants to pay more taxes and fees?

In a Trentonian article written by Carols Avila, one local business owner, Vincente Barrientos, echoed this sentiment when he said "We work with our employees when they need off for health reasons but to impose this law on us in addition to the many other taxes, fees and expenses we have makes it difficult to run a business in this city".

Nevertheless, no matter what way you look at it, this measure has already started to catch wind in other municipalities like Newark and Jersey City as these two localities have both already  made this a policy. On top of this, two states, California and Connecticut have passed laws ensuring their workers can earn paid sick days. It is claimed that these local or statewide initiatives will somehow influence or set national policy. The bill in question specifically calls for allowing workers to accumulate an hour of sick leave for every 30 hours that they work.

After reviewing the pros and cons, I still don't think this is a wise move for the city of Trenton. To make small businesses compensate their employees for sick pay seems like the morally right thing to do, YES I get it, but at the same time, it still puts an undue burden on mom and pop shops who then may have to let go of some of their workers or find some other way to make up for the lost revenue that goes toward dishing out the sick pay.

On top of this, the city may without realizing it, push out or drive away existing businesses to other municipalities who do not impose the sick pay requirement. Why should we drive away these businesses that have loyally kept their shops here during some pretty hard times? And in the process, if you look at it, the city may also discourage others from starting new business here with this policy. If we here in the city want to really encourage others to invest here, then we cannot let this bill pass.

Lastly, for those that argue that since other states and municipalities have passed this type of measure why shouldn't Trenton, I say that Trenton is not the same as those other localities. Trenton has its own unique challenges that have to be addressed before we can impose yet another requirement on our small businesses. This is a big reason why it is so important to vote and let our voice be heard on this issue.

As things stand, City Council has voted to suspend consideration of this ordinance for paid sick days. They have instructed the Mercer County Board of Elections to arrange a referendum on the issue in the scheduled election on November 4th. For more details, click here.

An Open Letter to Re-Open Trenton Public Libraries

Dear Mayor Eric Jackson,

I know you are new in office but I am requesting that you do what you can to please reopen the shuttered city libraries that were closed since August of 2010. Now don't get me wrong, I do recognize that the Main Branch on Academy Street has made some great progress since the other locations have been closed.

All one has to do is take a quick look inside the Main Branch nowadays to see how they have added newer equipment, a DVD dispenser, and a larger variety of E-books (much to my delight). Along with this, I have also seen the library's strategic plan that lays out a blueprint for opening two satellite libraries within one year. Now on the surface that sounds fine and dandy, but I must say that this time-frame is far too long. (For more on the Library's strategic plan, you can always click here).

Indeed, I hate to be that proverbial fly in the ointment that always seems to find something wrong even in our best laid plans, but indeed on this occasion, I must. As I myself am a product of the free public library system, I feel the need to speak up early and often about this important issue. As a matter of fact, I can say without hesitation, that my life would have turned out completely different were it not for the free public library system.

As a kid, the library was a safe haven for me. It gave me a place to play games, use the computer, interact with like-minded peers, and last but not least, check-out books. Along with this, it encouraged me to read and educate myself more and more. Now years later, I am a PhD candidate at Capella University, but I digress.

Research has shown that libraries, which are simply collections of books and periodicals, add significant value to the community by providing easy access to high quality research content, helping adults upgrade their skills and find jobs, and by playing a significant role in improving childhood literacy, among other things. Bottom line: libraries are a vital part of the community. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it.

Researcher David Giles said, "No other institution, public or private, does a better job of reaching people who have been left behind in today’s economy, have failed to reach their potential in the city’s public school system or who simply need help navigating an increasingly complex world".

Moreover, studies done in New York and Texas both show that there is an economic return on investment for public libraries according to the Illinois Library Association, a library advocacy organization. These are definitely things to consider when allocating funds for our public libraries in the city of Trenton.

So, Mayor Jackson I hope that my plea to have the libraries re-opened doesn't fall on deaf ears and that you will do what you can do to re-open these library branches as I think this will improve things in the city of Trenton.

Sincerely,

Anwar's Reflections

A New Day in the City of Trenton

TRENTON-- Ladies and gents the mayoral and city council races are now things of the past. Indeed, the ballots have been counted, the parties have been had, and lo and behold, Tony Mack's era has finally ended. Mayoral elect Eric Jackson takes the throne July 1. It's a new day in the city of Trenton, or at least, we would hope so.

To be sure, the last thing Trenton needs right now, is politics as usual. No more corruption. No more pay-to-play politics. We need elected officials that uphold the highest degree of ethical standards. Alas, the city cries out for a new brand of leadership. A brand of leadership that knows how to honestly acknowledge the peaks and valleys we face, but still has a bold and compelling vision to get us to the mountaintop. A brand of leadership with a practical step by step plan to make things better. A brand of leadership that knows how to enlist the help of others. A brand of leadership that solicits the thoughts and ideas of the people to make the overall community better.

I sincerely hope that Eric Jackson and the new council members will demonstrate some of these qualities of leadership. Lord knows we need them to. Yet at the same time, we as everyday citizens have a responsibility to play here. We bear the responsibility of holding our elected officials accountable for their action or inaction on issues that are matter to us. Indeed, we cannot sit idly by while our great yet beleaguered city crumbles. I know its hard to stay involved and engaged in the everyday politics of our city, please believe me, I know, I work two jobs, and go to school, so I hear you. But we as everyday citizens can be leaders in our own right as well. We can set a positive example by simply going to work everyday, taking care of ourselves and our families, voting, reading, staying active, etc. There's no reason we can't be a part of the solution.

I know what you may be thinking, I don't know where to start, but trust me, there is wisdom and truth in the saying that even a thousand mile journey always starts with the first step. My first step may be volunteering, your first step may be mentoring a child. Another's first step may be cleaning up their block once a week. The options are endless, but I hope you get my underlying point which is to say that the choice is yours and mine.

Meet the Candidates Trenton Style Starts With Christine Donahue

TRENTON- - With the mayoral and city council elections quickly approaching, one recognizes how important it is to sit down with some of the candidates running for public office in the city of Trenton to learn more about them and their ideas for making a Trenton a better place to live, work, and play.

Check out the first video with Council At Large Candidate Christine Donahue below:

Anwar's Reflections Celebrates 100,000 Pageviews

TRENTON-- Recently, this blog surpassed 100,000 page views and I thought this was a perfect time to do what I love to do...REFLECT. Man oh man, its a beautiful thing to say that this blog went from having literally no page views or hits to now having 100,000 hits. Its a great feeling indeed, to build something when others doubted you.

When this blog first started out, I heard people say, 'who's gonna read that?' 'no one cares about that'. But I never let the naysayers stop me from doing what I love doing... writing and blogging.

Now don't get it twisted, I am not saying this blog is perfect, it still has a long way to go, but at the same time, I know its not where it used to be. For those that don't already know the history, originally, this blog started out as an interview series with local business owners and entrepreneurs. I interviewed people at places like the Hummingbird Restaurant, Amefikas, Cafe International, and Classics Bookstore, to name just a few.

Now it goes without saying that some of these small businesses have since folded up, but nonetheless a great deal of insight was received through interviewing these bright and talented business-people. Indeed, I learned a great deal about the unique challenges and opportunities that small business owners face in launching and sustaining a business and I'm truly glad that I shared this information with you guys, the readers.

From there, this blog branched out into the realm of political and social forums. I and others convened at the Trenton Public Library and Mercer County Community College to discuss some pretty important issues affecting both the city and the state. And in the process, I learned a lot about politics, blogging, social media, and most importantly, the community I belong to.

Going forward, my goal is to resume the interview series and pick up where I left off. However, I have to acknowledge that I do want to take the interview series in altogether different direction. This time around, I want to conduct interviews that will be more socially relevant in nature. I have ambitious hopes to interview thought leaders like US Senator Cory Booker, President Barack Obama, and Hip Hop Mogul Russell Simmons, to name just a few. I know what you're saying, I know what you're saying, but, trust me, stay tuned for more to come...

Catching Up On Things...

Hal Fleming

TRENTON-- Ladies and gents, I know its been a while since I last posted to this blog, but know this, I have not forgot about you guys, my readers. Indeed, a blogger that doesn't write is kind of like a bird that doesn't fly, its totally against its nature. But anyway, enough of my soapbox, I apologize for the delay in posting, but I wanted to fill everyone in on some things that have been going on in my life that have in a way prevented me from posting as much as I would like.

Indeed, so often, it seems that I only write about or reflect on the life around me, that is, the highs and lows of living in the City of Trenton and the larger Mercer County area. But I tell you there is a time and a place to reflect on one's own life and I'm taking license to do that on this occasion.

Ladies and gents, I don't know you if already know this or not, but I'm still in college, working on my last degree in hopes of becoming a teacher or professor. I have another year left of my program and I am literally counting the days. If you've ever been a student, you probably already know this, but going through school comes with its own unique trials and tribulations, but nonetheless it is a labor of love as I do love learning, writing, wordplay, and last but not least,  people's stories. Indeed, balancing school, work, and a personal life can be trying to say the least. This is a big reason you have not seen me posting as frequently as I used to.

But even as I go through my own challenges, I recognize that there is a whole world around me. A lot of moving and shaking has taken place. As a case in point, all one needs to do is take a look at recent news reports indicating things like Trenton Mayor Tony Mack was found guilty in a court of law or Councilwoman Kathy McBride throwing her hat in the mayoral race or even Trenton Mayoral candidate Walker Worthy talking of having a casino built in this grand ole city. Things are happening ladies and gents and I want to stay in the thick of things.

On a more somber note, I recently lost a friend, Hal Fleming, of Trenton, New Jersey. I went to a ceremony this past Sunday at the Quaker Meeting House where others honored him and his life. Hal was a good man, he took me under his wing and introduced me to so many people and organizations as a younger man. He really believed in people. Never one to gossip or backbite, Hal was committed to being a light in a sometimes dark world. He will be sorely missed.

This blog is dedicated to Hal. Your spirit is still with us brother.