Dancing Memories

I want to share with you today my memories of dance. It must have happened when I was an infant watching my parents dance. No, I don’t remember seeing my parents dance, but I can just imagine how beautiful the moment must appear to a child. For the first time, the child is witnessing the movement of limbs and hips in harmony with the beat of the music.


As older children, my brothers and I would play for most of the day in front of our apartment building, but sometimes my mother would gather us in the house with our friends and turn on her record player. The song that comes to mind in memory is “Car Wash” by the R&B group, Rose Royce. I remember we would all take turns dancing in the middle of the circle. When my turn came up, I would close my eyes and just allow my body to flow with the rhythm of the music. I remember the exhilarating feeling and laughing as my mother cheered me on, "Go head Stevie!" The moment left an indelible impression on my mind. It influenced how I interpret movement and music. It helped me to understand the marriage between the two and the beauty that it can impress upon a child's mind. "Happy music! Music on my mind..." ~The Blackbyrds

Painting: William H. Johnson Jitterbugs Series ca. 1941

Memorial Day: Remembering Teddy

This post is in honor of Memorial Day. This is a list of a few good men from my days in the Navy (1985-1988) stationed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). We were part of the ships first crew when it was commissioned in October of 1986. This is what I remember about those men:

TR underway

Plankowner…arriving

Msg to James Wormick and his brother from Chicago, IL: James, I can’t remember your brother’s name, but I do remember that you all treated me like I was your brother. I remember your brother’s wife too, but not her name. I hope all is well with the both of you. The moment I remember the most is the time we both danced to Eric B and Rakim’s song, Eric B is President. You remember the lyrics:

“…I'm scheming like I'm dreaming on a couch wit my feet up

You scream I'm

lazy, you must be crazy

Thought I was a donut, you tried to glaze me”

I miss you man! Peace~

Msg to Reginald Davis of Reading, PA: Reg, you are the only brother I am in touch with from the Roosevelt. You were as wild as they come back then, but you’ve come a long way. You're a family man now, but you gave new meaning to the word, “AWOL” back then. Plus, remember the time you almost got me arrested in Newport News? Reg, you was a something else man! Over the years, your family became my family and I love all of you. God bless you and your family. Peace~

Msg to David Glover of Gary, IN: You were our age, but you were a big brother to Reggie and me. You was a big happy dude with a big ol’ smile. Hey, remember the time we all rented an apartment in Little Creek, Virginia? Yeah, we had some good times...didn't we. I hope you’re well. Peace~

Msg to Glen Bosarge of Biloxi, MS
You were one of the coolest little guys I’ve ever met. *smile* The chief called you “the little ugly man,” but you were not at all. You had a beautiful and wonderful spirit despite all the guys picking on you. You were my friend. You told me that Mississippi was a beautiful place despite it’s ugly past. Peace~

Msg to Kevin Crampton of Alabama: Crampton, you would crack up laughing every time I started rapping/singing “La Di Da Di" by Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh. I don’t know if you remember, but you once told me that I would be a great man one day. You told me that I would probably be a senator or some other important person. Well, I have no political plans or aspirations, but time will tell. Thanks for the love and peace~

Msg to Brian Tillman of Detroit, MI: You and your other boys from Detroit didn’t like me very much. You all said I thought I was too cool. I liked you though. You were funny and the fellas used to call you "baby talk" because of your lisp. By the way, I am still the coolest. *smile*

Msg to Marlon Sherrod of Birmingham, AL:
You were the coolest brother I’ve ever seen outside of television! You were the sharpest dresser and a complete ladies man. You also introduced me to the music of Anita Baker and Jazz saxophonist, George Howard. Are you still sharp? Thanks and Peace~  

Msg to Saxon from the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn, NY:

I don’t remember your first name, but we would hang out every now and then. You told me that I was the first black guy you've ever hung out with. Remember the time our ship pulled in to Nassau and we went over the hill when they told us not to? We had a good time that day until this guy on the Island tried to sell you oregano for marijuana. He didn’t know that your mother is Italian. I hope all is well. Peace~

Msg to Louis Urso of Brooklyn, NY:

Louis, remember the time we went to the Maze (Featuring Frankie Beverly) show at the Norfolk Scope back in 1986? The show also featured the groups, Ready for the World and The Whispers. I got up to dance when Maze came to the stage. I looked back and you were just standing there smiling with your arms folded saying, “I love these f*cking guys! I can't wait to tell my brother!” You were one cool Italian dude. *smile*

Also:

• Patrick Hall of Louisiana/Oakland, California.
• James Wormick of Chicago, IL
• Darryl Wigfall of New York/South Carolina
• Randolph Lee of South Carolina/Miami, Florida
• Hershel West of Kansas

Honorable Mentions~

Msg to Carlos Correa and Selwyn from the Bronx, USA:

You were my Puerto Rican and Jamaican boys from the Bronx. We were all in Boot Camp together down in Orlando, Fl. in 1985. We were the Division ll/Blue Knights. Carlos, you always told me that you would take me home to meet your parents. You said that your mom cooked the best rice and beans in the Bronx. I’ve always felt you were a better friend to me than I was to you. Selwyn, you were just one funny brother. You kept us laughing and you were a good friend. Oh yeah, you had pointy ears. I love you guys. Peace~
There were many other guys I didn’t mention and others whose names I can't remember. Hey, it was over 20 years ago! Nevertheless, I hope that they are all well and that they are leading productive and rewarding lives. God bless them all. Have a great Memorial Day weekend and God bless the young men and women who are still in Iraq. Also, God bless the people of Iraq. Peace in the Middle East~

Update from Glen Bosarge via email (6/07/2007):

Hi Stephen,

 I found you on the Internet, and was extremely impressed with your writing talent. I have not forgotten my friends , but I was surprised you wrote about me. I remember you as a very easy going guy with a great personality, from what I read you have only matured with age... 

Plankowner…departing

The Sage of Anacostia: Frederick Douglass

"One and God make a majority"~ Frederick Douglass



"I prayed for twenty years but received no answer until I prayed with my legs"~Frederick Douglass

Who is Frederick Douglass?


These photos were taken over the weekend at the Frederick Douglass Isaac Myers Maritime Park in Baltimore, Maryland. We gathered there to celebrate my great-aunt's 80th birthday. I'll have to go back to Baltimore to take a closer look at the exhibit real soon. Happy birthday aunt Pearline!

Photos: Douglass memorial bust, Mrs. Bess and Douglass, Stephen Bess and Douglass

(The photos feature quotes by Frederick Douglass on prayer and God)

Book on Subject: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: An American Slave, by Himself

Glover Films: Toussaint

Venezuelan president, Hugo Chavez, is financing two films by close supporter and actor, Danny Glover. I am particularly excited about his film, Toussaint, which chronicles the life of the Haitian revolution leader, Toussaint L’Ouverture. It’s long overdue!!! Toussaint’s life is a wonderful and courageous story that the world should know about. So, God bless Danny Glover for stepping up to tell “our” story because no one else will. I want to give a big thank you to Mr. Glover and Mr. Chavez. Many blessings to you. Check out the article. Peace~

Sources: Wikipedia.org/Comcast news/Blackvoices.com

Caribbean-American Heritage Month: Book Giveaway

In celebration of Caribbean-American Heritage Month and in coordination with Akashic Books and Jamaicans.com, Geoffrey Philp’s Blog Spot will be hosting a book giveaway contest on the theme, “Caribbean-Americans and the 'American Dream."

If you're like me, the thought of free books makes you very happy. Go!! Check it out for more details about how to win. Enjoy your weekend. Peace~

Stokely Carmichael Quote

Stokely Carmichael

[aka Kwame Toure 1941-1998]
Quote taken from Boogie Down Productions/Edutainment 1990

"History can never be made by one man, we must smash this one quickly. History is made only by the masses of the people, this is clear. Even a cursory glance at the fallacious presentation Of History by the American Capitalist system, will demonstrate just this. Take George Washington, as bad as he is... put him in the middle of Valley Forge, by himself, surrounded by the British, he can do nothing. Take Martin Luther King as righteous as he is... put him in the middle of Birmingham by himself, speaking out against racism, he would be lynched. But you take this same King, you take this same Washington put them in Valley Forge, put them in Alabama surround them with thousands of people who have the same ideas they do, willing to make those ideas reality and the situation changes drastically."

Photo and info source: sunyulster.edu and wikipedia.org

I was just feeling a little Edutainment by KRS-One and Boogie Down Production. It was one of my favorite cds from my college days in Savannah. I wish for you all a safe and wonderful weekend. Peace~

Ellington's on Eighth

This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of seeing a couple of live bands play at Ellington’s on Eighth. Ellington’s on Eighth has been located on 8th Street in Southeast Washington near the Marine Barracks since Mother’s Day in 1998. Saturday’s performances were by Nigerian singer and songwriter, Kuku and South African band, Mahala featuring the magical guitar on Mongezi “Chris” Ntaka. It was a real treat. Now, top that off with an international buffet featuring West African/Caribbean cuisine and great conversation, then you have a typical evening at Ellington’s on Eighth. This cozy little champagne lounge and garden café was started by two sisters from Iowa name, Marsha and Annette Martin. They saw Ellington’s as an opportunity to serve and give back to the community. As a matter of fact, Ellington’s staff was chosen through referrals from places like DC Central Kitchen. This fit in well with Annette’s background in Social Work. She could serve the community as a business owner and continue her mission as someone who loves to help others. I’ve never met Marsha Martin, but Annette Martin is a wonderful person. Her warm manner and ready smile reminds me of an auntie or older sister. On any given day she could be seen talking and laughing with the customers. I’m sure that she has often been mistaken for a waitress or server because she is always among the patrons making sure they are comfortable and being served. Unfortunately, Ellington’s on Eighth closed its doors after nine years of serving the Capitol Hill community. Family, friends, and patrons said their goodbyes this past Sunday on their 9th Anniversary. Ellington’s on Eighth will be missed…but only in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Annette Martin assured me and others that she and her sister are considering other locations in the DC metropolitan area for a future location. So, all is not lost on this journey and perhaps the Ellington name will reemerge on another street closer to you or me. I hope so and I hope it’s soon. So, thank you Annette and Marsha for nine great years on 8th Street. Annette, thank you for taking the time to talk with me and for showing me your book on African Americans in Iowa. I'd also like to thank your very funny and talented staff for their service and wonderful hospitality. I wish you the very best. Peace~

Clarification and message from Annette:

"one clarifiication ... of the employees you met on Saturday ... two were from DC Third and EATS (Community Family Life Services), one from Ballou High School and another from CSOSA. I have also been fortunate to employ a number of people from the HOMELAND .... AFRICA ... this has given be great HAPPINESS . I have grown so much. Ellington's on Eighth is a special place ... I am glad to have met you."

History: The Great Negro Plot

Today in history:

May 11, 1741
The execution of 31 Blacks and 4 Whites begins for their alleged conspiracy in the “Negro Plot”. 70 other enslaved Blacks are transported out of New York City.

Book on Subject: The Great Negro Plot: A Tale of Conspiracy and Murder in 18th-Century New York by Mat Johnson (2007).

I own a signed copy of Mat Johnson's book. I had a chance to attend his book reading in early spring. He seems like a really nice guy and I'm looking forward to reading his book. It's part of my summer line up. I have an idea of what I'll be reading this summer, but I need to "line" them up and get started. If you're like me you like to stay on the subject. In other words, if I'm reading about slave mutiny then I'll read about three other books on the subject. I don't know...I guess I'm hooked on African American history and the past. I mean, just look at my screen background at work. Yes, a field of good ol' southern cotton. I don't keep this picture as my background, but today was as good a day as any. Besides, it is part of my past and also part of my attire today because I'm wearing jeans. Enjoy your weekend. Peace~

Photography: Scenes on H Street in DC

United House of Prayer

Mural for Million Family March

Men's Fashion Center

A closer look

Young and hip in DC

90 Bus headed southeast on H St.

Flyer I saw on a pole

H street was one of the hardest hit areas during the riots of 1968. It has deteriorated a great deal since 1968, but efforts are underway to revitalize this part of DC. It's a straight shot to downtown so developers are erecting condominiums and lofts to attract money. The Victorian style homes that surround the H street neighborhood are also being revitalized.

Great Imperative Meme

I have been tagged by Geoffrey Philp concerning the “great imperative.” He is asking the question, what is the great imperative of my life? This is a great meme because it really made me think. As Arsenio Hall would say, it’s one of those things that make you go…hmmmmmm? Well, everyone gather around.

My greatest imperative in life has always been knowledge of self. I have always wanted to know who I am. This quest for knowledge started as a child when I would ask my grandmother dozens of questions about our family and the existence of God. My grandmother could talk about God all day, but family knowledge went back only a few generations. I would gain knowledge of and fall in love with the knowledge of my African ancestry after I was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1988. I was living in New Haven, Connecticut in the spring of 1988 when I entered a shop that sold African inspired books, incense and art. I inquired about some of the things I saw there and the shop attendant began to speak about Africa and the African American experience. I listened intently and held onto every word as he continued for what seemed like an hour. In the end, I was amazed at how much I didn’t know. I left that shop with a renewed sense of self and a thirst to find out more. I’d like to think I was reborn that day. I felt proud. I felt African. I felt powerful!

It’s amazing what knowledge of self can do. In retrospect, that moment helped me to understand the system of slavery in early America and why the US government felt it necessary to strip the captured Africans of their names, languages and overall knowledge of culture. They understood that knowledge was/is power. They knew that knowledge would only impede their mission to exploit and enslave the African. So, my great imperative has been to spread the knowledge that exists in the African Diaspora as often as I can. This blog has been a great catalyst for the dissemination of that knowledge. It has been a blessing. This leads me to something far greater; I can do nothing without the goodness and grace of God. He guides my spirit and gives me direction everyday. He leads me to the knowledge and grants me the wisdom to present it. So, I give thanks. I open this tag up to anyone who wishes to share their “great imperative.” Thanks again, Geoffrey. I enjoyed this. Peace~

Art by: Jonathan Green, Tales, 1988

Oil on masonite, collection of Richard Weedman

Sketch Art: Sam Fuller Jr and Laban

Untitled

Colored pencil and graphite drawing

Today, I want to share some of my art collection with you all. The featured artist is African American sketch artist, Sam Fuller Jr. I met Mr. Fuller in the Fall of 2005 at DuPont Circle Park here in DC. It was autumn, so the weather was still fairly warm. I took daily walks during my lunch hour near Dupont Circle; one afternoon, I observed Mr. Fuller in the park selling his art. I didn't bother him that day, but I noticed him the next day as well, so I decided to approach him to take a closer look at his work. He sat quietly on the park bench while sketching one of his upcoming pieces. As I walked closer, I noticed that he wore jeans and a starched white shirt that appeared very bright in the sunlight.

I introduced myself and asked if I could take a look at some of his artwork. He showed me his work and also shared works in progress. I visited with him the rest of the week at the park during my lunch hour. We talked about his career as an artist and his journey in life. He told me that he lived in Texas, but he was in town visiting his sister somewhere in Prince Georges County, Maryland. He also mentioned that he was incarcerated as a younger man, and honed his skills as an artist during his time in prison. The most touching and personal story he shared with me was about his son named Laban, whom he hasn’t seen for many years (he spoke about the son’s mother, but I don’t remember the details). Sadly, he had no idea where to find Laban, who is a young man today. So, in honor of his son, Mr. Fuller signs all of his work with his signature and Laban’s name in hope that Laban will see it one day. It is his hope that Laban's discovery will spark a reunion between father and son.

The featured piece is wonderful to me. I purchased it from Mr. Fuller on the last day we talked. I wish I had more to show, but this was the only piece I could afford at the time. It’s a tribute to Jazz and the famous Savoy Ballroom in Harlem. African American culture and music seems to be the overriding theme in most of Fuller’s work. I like this piece because it screams ecstasy and hot Jazz! Funny, the men in this piece seem more subdued than the women.

By the way, thank you all for reading my Women and the Blues series. There is one post left in the series so stay tuned.

Note to Sam Fuller: Mr. Fuller, this is my way of contributing to your efforts while showcasing your wonderful talent as an artist.

Best Wishes~
Stephen Bess

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