Happy Holidays from the Obama Family

Happy Holidays!!! from Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated

"I paint a picture with a pen like Norman Maller" -- Talib Kweli

Art by Mike Stone

Art in some ways has been described as the conscious production or arrangement of sounds, colors, forms, movements, or other elements in a manner that affects the sense of beauty. Specifically the production of the beautiful in a graphic or plastic medium. Mike Stone draws inspiration from Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art and Urban Graffiti. For the past ten years his work has become more symbolic and abstract and less dependent on figures to convey his motivations and desires.

Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1973 where he currently works and resides, Mike Stone's current work is a mix of abstraction and still life’s. He also gets direct inspiration from music (mostly avant-garde jazz and hip-hop) and the process of his emotions of everyday life.

He has recently donated these three abstract paintings to Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated to be auctioned off to raise funds for the development of the website and computer equipment for the youth telecast staff. The auction will begin December 5, 2008. For more information email us @ info@hiphoptv247.org

His work was recently featured in the Art of Seduction exhibit at Bathhouse Studios in New York city hosted by KING Magazine and JC Cognac. There was an silent auction that took place and proceeds from the auction went to Silent Voices United, a nonprofit focused on empowering and educating today's inner-city youth.

Mike Stone is currently continuing his studies at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York with an emphasis on painting and drawing.

For more information about Mike Stone and his work, please check out his website @ www.artbymikestone.com

Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated, educating the minds of youth with information that is essential to improving their way of life.

Moving Mountains Inc.

Moving Mountains Inc. serves disenfranchised youth in the Brooklyn community and abroad, led by it's President Jamie Hector.

Moving Mountains Inc. is a organization that is geared towards youth ages 12 to 21, providing youth services designed utilizing youth prevention best practices, including engagement techniques such as, acting and singing classes, shooting a short film, editing and broadcasting ), holding theater productions, and professional/celebrity mentor ship in the arts.

The primary purpose of Moving Mountains Inc. is to motivate and educate youth through the performing art. Their program allows youth to attach importance to their goals, establish their individual strengths and apply them to dramatic productions and other aspects of media and entertainment.

With over 20 years of youth development and film industry experience, they are presently engaged in providing awareness of opportunity and guidance to youth dedicated to creative arts by utilizing appropriate cultural contexts to engage youth in their own life development and sense of self worth.

Moving Mountains Inc. programs consists of Moving Mountains Theater Ensemble, Give Back Film Works, B’More Ballers Basketball League and LIFE Mentorship Program:

• The Moving Mountains Ensemble is comprised of professional actors, actresses, singers, dancers, writers and musicians. Committed to exposing the serious social issues confronting our youth, we utilize the medium of pop and hip hop culture, combined with theater production, acting training and music appreciation to engage youth.

• The Give Back Film Works cater towards the burgeoning photographer, filmmaker, or graphic artist, Give Back Film Works (GBFW) provides project based classes exposing youth to the full cycle of media production.

• The B’MORE BALLERS BASKETBALL LEAGUE is a start up league in its inaugural year. Under the guidance of Felicia “Snoop” Pearson of HBO’s “The Wire”, the B’more Ballers is geared towards underprivileged and at risk youth in the Baltimore area and the league gives an alternative to negative influences.

• The LIFE Mentorship Program: All youth participate in the mentorship program by being assigned a mentor from thier registered members and learn more about the real world industry in their distinctive fields.
  

The organization runs in tandem with the Board of Education school year, operating from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, on Monday Wednesday, and Friday and 10am to 5pm on Saturdays.
Moving Mountains Inc provides a safe, supervised positive alternative to the streets.

For more information about Moving Mountains Inc. log onto: www.jamiehectoronline.com


Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated, educating the minds of youth with information that is essential to improving their way of life.

"Breathe and Stop" --- Q-Tip

An observation

by J.R. Riddick
Director of Operations, Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated

A Sunny crisp Sunday. Fulton Street Mall. Brooklyn. Sneaker store reigns with activity. I see a young man with mom gazing at the dizzing array of dunks, ACG's, Timbz, and various labels waiting to be bought. The young man softly tells mom that he's done well in school for the semester and he deserves the $100 pair of silver Nikes. Before he can finish his argument, Mom yells at him at the top of her lungs that although she promised him those sneakers last week, she cannot buy the dream dunks now because of 1. dad's bail money was important and 2. the sneakers would make a smart kid like him look silly. Before the young man got a word out to respond, moms quickly snatches him out the store. Disappointment. The silver dream sneakers fall at my feet. . .

A Manic Monday. Kingston Avenue. North Crown Heights. A group of beautiful young women walk down the street in their Volleyball uniforms on their way to a game. They sing in unison the latest female empowerment anthem - Jennifer Hudson's "Spotlight". Some are on key, some are WAY off key. I troop past the athletes walking 20 deep on the sidewalk. Yes, the girls want attention from EVERYONE within a mile radius. The loudness is all too common in the hood between 2.30 and 4pm on Brooklyn streets. With every line, the young women become louder, bolder, shall I say, more empowered. At the corner of Kingston and Bergen, they are met with a group of older black women who give them a lecture about acting as proper young women in the street. Some of the girls are shocked, some ignore the protest, some keep on singing as if nothing happened. For sure, a noticeable change in their spirit waned as they laughed. They stopped singing. . .

A Tantrum Tuesday. Grocery day. I'm on line at the local supermarket in Fort Greene, Brooklyn and a young mother is fussing with a seven-year old boy who wants to eat a pack of cookies. The mother - tired and frustrated, shakes the young boy hard to get him to stop fussing at the cookies. The boy slams his head on the cold linoleum floor. A few of us checked to see if the boy is not injured. The mother spits in venom at the screaming boy for the next ten minutes on the checkout line about acting like a fool in public. The boy's in pain. Mom's in pain. I'm in pain for them. . .

Wild Wild West Wednesday. Peace sleep. My eyes are closed in bed when I hear the requisite gunshots in the wee hours of morning. This time it sounds awfully close. Sirens pop the cold air. The noise invades my home. I look outside to see a a young man lying face down in the street in front of my house in a pool of blood. Police, ambulance, bystanders, onlookers patchwork in front of my house for the latest bloodshed spectacle. Mom and brother see their son and brother lying in blood, friends howl in grief in the night air. Its a surreal scene as the twenty-year old black male body is picked up and removed and is quickly replaced by candles and beads. My sidewalk is a crime scene. I can't walk outside my home. The stories about another black male death by violence make me pause. Im aware of my mortality at 2am in the morning. . .

A Tired and Trying Thursday. My cell rings constantly during the day. Questions hit me like gunshots, rattling my body with the re-telling of what happened with the shooting but the questions change with the request of favors and things I dont have time for. Can I do?. . .Can you be a this/that/wherever place at this/that/whatever time?, Do you have X amount of dollars to lend? Are you going to the latest event? Did you make time for X, Y, and Z. By the end of the day, I said Yes to a million requests but can't remember one. I walk down the street in a daze coming home from work. I see two kids playing tag in the street. I am suddenly amazed to see how happy they are playing tag yards away from a crime scene . . .

Free Friday. I sit down and relax to watch TV to unwind after a stressful week. The news is ALL PANIC ALL DAY!. I turn from that crap to watch what's on GhettoVision - not just another point of view channel. Im bored and turn to watch Black World Live channel, where all possibilities are considered. Im upset now and I turn to Gritty Television to see where else can I keep it real? I fall asleep to keep myself from crying. . .

Sane Saturday. Crowded iron-horse. I'm on the A train going into the city to have lunch. A woman gets on a the Jay Street stop. She stands before me. I get her attention so she can have a seat. She tells me "You can stay seated, its okay, i'm not pregnant." I was puzzled. A group of teens sitting across from me laughed from the exchange. After the woman got off, they said to me, "That's what you get for being nice!"

I laughed deeply. Sometimes in life, you have to just breathe and stop. . .

"There's rules to this game" --- The Notorious B.I.G. (Life After Death)

The 'B' word every kid can use

Winning strategies for a budget-conscious youth

by Candi Sparks and Queon L. Martin

To "B" or not to "B" in general, budgeting gets a pretty bad rap. Youth tend to think that a budget is a list of things you deny yourself. This negative mindset is what is driving the credit crunch. A budget is actually a plan for saving, spending and accumulating money. I think of budgeting like having "Now and Later" candy. You would get "Now and Later" candy to have some now, and save some for later on. It would help if we think about our money like a "Now and Later." We need to spend money now, but if we use it all now, there won't be any for later. And, if we are going to have enough money for an emergency, or to buy a house or to retire, we will surely need to have our money working for us. We've heard the cliché' that "it takes money to make money." Right now, our money can be working for us to accumulate interest payments in investments. This is why a budget has to involve the three prongs of spending, saving and accumulating money. A budget is a money plan for "now and later." This is a great way to introduce the concept of budgeting to yourself. You will need money "now and later" and budgeting is a plan to do it.

• Money is not just for spending. You need a plan to save, spend and accumulate money so you will have it "now and later."

• Money is not unlimited. Once you spend it, it is gone. You can run out of money if you don't keep some saved or put aside for growth.

• Purchases should be planned. Impulse buying is one of the fastest ways to spend too much money.

• Gratification can be delayed until we can afford what we want. The things that we want will still be there next week, and might even change from week to week.

• Unexpected emergencies happen that require cash. Medical situations, an extra cab ride in inclement weather, lay offs.... to name just a few.

• Long-term financial goals are easier to reach if you start early and stay on course.

Here are some steps to help you learn how to budget and to feel positive about it.

1. Write out your budget. Remember, a budget is a plan for saving, spending and accumulating money. Get out the pencil and paper and start to write out the categories in your budget, including some immediate wants, and some long-term goals. If you do not have an emergency fund, it is never too soon to start one. This will help you to see that proper money management requires planning for expenses and having an emergency fund. Also include the dreams in the budget. Even if you don't have the money to start funding the dream yet, keeping it on the paper is a good reminder that what you want and dream about is as important as the things you need to survive today.

2. This is not the time to gripe about the economy or not having enough money. Remember, we are all experiencing the downturn. You may not understand everything that is going on in the economy, but I hope we at Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated are helping with you having a better understanding of what's going on in the nation and the world by providing you with information that is essential to improving your way of life. If not email us @ info@hiphoptv247.org with your concerns. Instead of complaining, be proactive about what you can do to get on track and stay on track financially.

3. In learning the spending aspect of budgeting, use cash as much as possible. Trips to the grocery store, school supplies and haircuts can be paid using cash. The reason being, we have a stronger emotional connection to cash, and it is a great visual example that once the cash in your wallet has been spent, it's gone. Another good reason to use cash is that a "budget" is really about how much cash you have and what you can actually afford to spend.

4. With the incessant marketing of credit cards and loans, you will need to find ways to overcome the tremendous appeal that plastic has. Youth get the false impression that if you use plastic, you "never run out of money" or that "you didn't have to pay." If you use too much credit you will never have any money of your own! In budgeting, cash is king. Pay in cash and keep track of how much cash is spent, and what it is being spent on.

5. This rule is so underrated; Parents don't be a "financial water faucet." If every time your child "run out of money" you bail them out by giving them more cash, you could wind up with a thirty-year old living in your basement. You can avoid this if they learn early on, that you are not going to replenish the money for them. They can learn from first hand experience that you have to earn money before you spend it. This will allow them to see and eventually experience spending every cent you get your hands on is NOT the way to take care of yourself. After all your child wants to be around now and later, right?

6. Never see budgeting in a negative way. A budget is what a smart person does so that he or she will have money "now and later." Everyone knows that money can help one to feel secure and comfortable (just like having good health and being in your right mind). Have a positive attitude towards budgeting. Budgeting is a great way to make dreams come true.

7. Try writing out a savings plan for long term goals. Is it a holiday gift you are saving to buy a love one? Are you saving for college? You want to go on vacation? You want to buy a car or a home? Work within your budget as you will see results in the long run in obtaining your goal.

8. If possible, take a calculator on shopping trips and keep a running tally of how much is being spent before you get to the check out counter. If you have gone over your budget, begin to breakdown which items you "want" and which items you "need." Put back the items you "want" as you can always come back another time to purchase it. This helps you understand that purchases should be planned and given thought.

9. If you want something from the store that you had not planned to buy, don't rush to buy it. Put that item in the budget and save up for it. Plan how and when you will be able to afford it.

10. Be a role model to your peers. They see how budgeting and saving money has benefited you. Buy items on sale, as this can help you with your goal of purchasing your dream item in the future. When you get change from your purchases, put it aside in a "change jar" as this can help you out on saving extra cash. After following these rules, in time you will understand the meaning of budgeting and the importance of it.


Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated, edcuating the minds of youth with information that is essential to improving their way of life.

"The World is Yours!" -- Nas (illmatic)

Black Male Teachers

Do you know any Black males who
are seniors in high school who
want to go to college out of
state for 'FREE' ? Several Black
Colleges are looking for future
black male teachers and will send
them to universities/colleges for
4 years free.


The 'Call Me MISTER' program is an effort to address
the critical shortage of African American male teachers
particularly among South Carolina 's lowest performing
public schools. Program participants are selected from
among under-served, socioeconomically disadvantaged and
educationally at-risk communities.

The Call Me MISTER program combines the special strengths
and resources of Clemson University with the individualized
instructional programs offered by four historically black
colleges in South Carolina : Benedict College ,
Claflin University , Morris College and
South Carolina State University. To provide even greater
opportunity and access, students have the option of first
attending one of our two-year partner colleges before
transferring to one of the four-year institutions to complete
their baccalaureate degree. In addition, the project has
limited enrollment in the middle school Master of Art in
Teaching program. 
The project provides:
Tuition for admitted students pursuing approved programs of
study at participating colleges. An academic support system
to help assure their success. A cohort system for social and
cultural support.

Visit http://www.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htm
for more details and the online application or
call (800) 640-2657.  

Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated, educating the minds of youth
with information that is essential to improving their way of life. 

Yes We Did! President Barack Obama!

Hope is there... and Change makes sense! --- Queon L. Martin CEO/Chairman Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated

Datwon Thomas, Spokesperson for Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated

The Future is here!

What's the deal my good people? I would like to take a moment to introduce myself to you in a different capacity. Yes, I'm Datwon Thomas the Editor-in-Chief of the mighty XXL Magazine, creator/founding editor of KING and RIDES Magazines, yet I'm also a son, father, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and all the things that you are to those who love you. In addition to all that, I'm a concerned citizen. One that wants to see the individuals of today and the ones of tomorrow work towards a unified future of compassion, creativity and constant growth. With the formation of Mr. Martin's not-for-profit organization Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated, you have a foundation for the world to see you get involved in helping a youth based culture push the limits of their voice and choice.

As the world hangs on the ballots of this all too important presidential race, the hip-hop nation must prepare the next mass of soul-soldiers regardless if Obama wins or not. Understanding that much work is needed to set forth goals that cements our influence in decisions that effect our families, hoods, careers, health and love of hip-hop.

As spokesman, you'll hear from me from time to time, because this is really about you. Your involvement is needed just as my influence is here to help you bounce ideas and feelings so I can better represent the culture knowing exactly what you the people are going through.

Regardless who you choose to support in this election, think about how you and yours will live once your vote is cast. Work towards the things your candidate expressed that touched you. Either way, you'll be working in your favor and for those that you love. Knowing that things will be rough on the go in, I'm voting Obama. The tough times ahead for this country aren't half as bad as the tough times that are behind this country.

So frequent this site, as I will do the same to see what's poppin' on your side.

Respect,

Datwon Thomas
XXL Magazine
KING Magazine
RIDES Magazine

"The Evolution of Generations"-- Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated

Hip-HopTV24/7.org Incorporated and My Hip-Hopinion will like to introduce Rush Philanthropic

Rush Philanthropic believes in the vital importance of lifelong exposure to the arts, nurtured in early childhood, and anchored in sustained, creative experiences throughout one’s life. In its first 11 years, Rush Philanthropic has served over 700,000 urban youth, directed millions in funding from donors including individuals, foundations, and leading corporations to underserved youth, and established two exhibit and education facilities, one in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood and the other in Manhattan’s Chelsea arts district.

The organization’s annual Art For Life East Hampton and Palm Beach benefits raised more than $2 million in 2006.

Founded in 1995 by brothers Russell, Danny and Joseph Simmons, Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation is dedicated to providing disadvantaged urban youth with significant exposure and access to the arts, as well as providing exhibition opportunities to under-represented artists and artists of color. A 501(C)3 organization, Rush Philanthropic fulfills its mission through three core programs: grants, exhibitions and mentoring. The Rush Community Grants Program annually provides direct funding to over 70 nonprofit organizations that offer education programming in all disciplines of the arts to New York City and Palm Beach County youth. Rush also runs two arts exhibition and education facilities: Rush Arts Gallery and Resource Center in Manhattan’s Chelsea arts district and the Corridor Gallery in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood. The Rush Gallery in the School and Rush Kids Visual Arts Mentorship Programs (a.k.a. Rush Kids) use arts education to create a spark that lights the imagination and creativity of the urban youth we serve. The Rush Impact Mentorship Initiative allows the foundation’s leadership to reach out to young people by taking them behind the scenes at Rush Communications’ headquarters for in-depth Q&A sessions with Russell Simmons and executives in music, fashion, and creative-related professions.

The organization is currently in a fundraising campaign for an 11,000 square-foot arts education and resource center it will open next year in East New York, Brooklyn. The building was a gift from Ron Hershco of United Homes.

Art saves lives, it is that simple. Rush Philanthropic believes that if you give young people the opportunity to practice and appreciate art -- whether poetry, music, dance, or the visual arts -- then you will see lives transformed as young people learn to value their own unique voices and visions. It is this type of impact we aspire to see happen and that your support will make possible.

Corridor Gallery, 334 Grand Avenue (between Greene and Gates Avenues) in Brooklyn is a community-based gallery serving Brooklyn residents and artists, with a primary focus on artists and audience development. Founded and run by artist Danny Simmons, this community resource presents five exhibitions each year with frequent public programs. Corridor Gallery serves as the base for the Education Programs of the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation. Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday noon to 6:00 p.m. or by appointment 718-230-5002.

Located on the Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, Danny Simmons Corridor Gallery is easily accessible by public transportation. It is a short walk from the G train to Classon Avenue or the C train to Clinton/Washington Station.

Danny Simmons Corridor Gallery is a project of The Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation which is dedicated to providing disadvantaged urban youth with significant exposure and access to the arts, as well as providing exhibition opportunities to underrepresented artists and artists of color. A 501(C)3 organization, Rush Philanthropic fulfills its mission through three core programs: community grants, exhibitions and education programs. The organization was founded in 1995 by brothers Russell, Danny and Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons.