EXTRA CREDIT- GIF EMBED FOR FINAL

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             Gregory Hines At the Cotton Club

Gregory Hines and Mikhlail Baryshnikov - White Nights

The Legendary Tap Dancers pay tribute to Sammy Davis Jr,

Two Words... Fred Astaire 

 Michael Jackson was not the first to MoonWalk

#4 _Google Maps embed for Final

 Every great city is known by its great landmarks. Weather you're traveling or in your own city, you know the good spots. Whole Foods is one of my favorite places to shop for unique foods. When I have a craving for their Blacken Chicken Salad, I head right over to Whole Foods for a healthy treat.  The House of Blues will drive your sorrows away. With all kinds of musical genres on display, you will sure fill your evening with fun. But for more fun and good eats, head to Dave' and Buster's. The games are not just for children, but adults too. Chicago is the place to be. Click on the maps and you will see.

# 3 - Storyfy emed finial

America has been turn up side down in the last couple of months. The most recent to hit the media was the Michael Brown story in Missouri, now this.  Allegedly Eric Garner was outside of a local business selling " loose squares ", also know as cigarettes, was approached by local police. The incident was recored from a on -looker using a cell phone. As Mr. Garner explains himself, officers placed him in a choke hold causing Eric to repeatedly say " I can't breath 11 times. Mr. Eric died and the officers involved were not charged. While we wasted time on unnecessary issue, people are dying at the hands of some of those who are suppose to serve and protect. My heart is heavy
while typing this, so much so "I can't breath'.

#2- Slideshow embed for final

 



" A Better Future" was the theme of discussion agh the 2012 Republican National Convention. Mitt Rommeny and Paul Ryan were the candidates for that day.

#1-News/ opinion blog item for finial

                                                   

With Christmas just 2 weeks away, most people either waited in long lines during Black Friday, the day of and after Thanksgiving, to do some shopping for family and friends. But Ho, Ho Ho, or should I say, No, No No to the most recent Crash and grab incident posted by  Chicago Tribune  two days ago. On the Mag Mile,Neiman Marcus has been some burglars playground. By smashing a mini van into the store and taking retail items. The thieves took, jewelry, jeans and handbags.  A local pawn shop was also the target a week ago,  Channel 7 reports . So my question is, what happen to one of the golden rule, thy shalt not steal? What happened to working hard to get what you want? People have lost all of their moral values for the sake of having material things and property that does not belong to them. I guess the gift of moral ethics and be bought, but should be taught. Happy Holidays!!

Child Abuse Here In The U. S. A.

There is nothing more that gets under my skin than an adult abusing a child. Children are innocent and precious. Who in their right mind would harm a child? Even parents who cruse at their children in my opinion, I consider begin verbal abuse. Words hurt and could potentially affect a child, causing them to have low self esteem. If you see any signs of a child begin abuse, please report it.  Mandated Reporting is easy. Teacher, officers, social workers and anybody that work close with children is mandated by law to reports any signs of abuse. You do not have to leave your name, just do the right thing so a child can live a productive life as an adult. 

WE FALL DOWN... and we can't get up!

         It may be a little shocking seeing someone falling, but sometimes after you find out it's not until death, you just might chuckle a little bit. There are many things that may off set a fall, like missing a step, tripping over an object or being the influence of alcohol might help aiding a fall. Below, are quit some unique ways one can suddenly be standing and then having a  "ground breaking" conversation with the floor next!  Youtube is full of falling down video's. Just watch!




  Talk about an " Ugly Coyote " moment. She can blame it on the alcohol .

       Strip tease or not? OUCH!!!

                    While learning how to make wine, the grape lady gets more for what she bargained for.

" I forgot my wreck mommy"

This little is doing a recital for friends and family but looks like the fireplace got an unexpected visit.

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My 5 favs

Chicago is full of great places to eat. I'm a little upset I can't share them all with you. Uncle Joe's Jerk in not only good at it's 47th Street location, but you can take a bottle of their famous bottle of jerk sauce to enjoy at home and cooking time with your family. After leaving the Chicago Bulls Stadium, head over to Home Run Inn Pizza joint. There you will enjoy, a varitey of delisioucs cheesy pizza in a family atmosphere. In Brozneville,  enjoy some smokey bar-b- que from Alice's. Besides their saucy rib tips, try a double cheese burger on toast. You'll never view a Bar-b- que burger the same again.

Men and Manicures

I know we now live in a society where anything goes and the fashion trends have gotten outrages. When I was going up, I saw men who might have been blue collared, hard working men that  provived for their families and GOT THEIR HANDS AND NAILS DIRTY!!!  Now don't  get me wrong, I love a well groomed man who takes pride in his appearance,but when it comes down to a "man" getting a manicure with designs, letters and such, it's a bit much for me. For years, rappers, singers and actors have set trends for fans to follow. For example, MC Hammer and his puffy pants, Jennifer Aniston and Halle Berry with their hairstyles. But rapper, Snoop Doggy Dog is now painting his nails with illegal drug plants that suggest he smokes weed. What kinda example is he setting for the young men of today and those who he coach on his youth football team? I was taught color nail polish is for women. If a man wants to get a manicure, it should be clear polish. I'm just saying.

A Closer Look- The Bronzeville Community

As I created this my of my near by community, a sense of calmness arose within me. One could travel, up north in Chicago are drive to the suburbs, but nothing can come close to historical treasures in your own back yard. Although I live in Hyde Park, It takes me 7 minutes to drive to Ain't She Sweet Cafe, which was formerly located on 45th and Cottage Grove. My other favorite location is the Harold Washington Culture Center. I had an opportunity to work during their summer program as well as, sing in a showcase that was held there in 2011. So if you ever need a cozy place to visit in Chicago, Bronzeville just might be what you are looking for.

Racist or Not?

We know all of them by their name, The Kardashians. Famous because of their father, Robert Kardashians   who was the defense attorney for murder case involving former football star, O.J. Simpson. Now that the girls are older, they have  had relationships with African American men. What I'm confused about is, what gives them to right to make mockery of such a sensitive subject in this manner? Our forefather, were slain, hung and buried by the Ku Klux Klan, a group of white hate extremism and their fame does not justify their behavior. Social Media is outraged, and I am too. The Kardashians say it was a joke, but I don't see anything funny. The context has since been removed. Thank God!

CONCEDE OR NOT TO CONCEDE?

What a close race that was!!  Social media was in a up-roar when they found out that Bruce Rauner was elected Governor of Illinois. Some people were very angry. I guess because their favorite candidate didn't win. One of my Facebook friends stated "I told u ppl to go vote and u didn't! We cant move forward with a divided gov. The next 2yrs r guna b more of the same. Poor Hillary good luck ur guna need it". Really? I believe the people did vote, but somebody has to loose. I think this a other opportunity to see someone else vivson for this great city. And when Rauner's term is over, he'll get voted out too, unless Illinois re-elect him. Pat Quinn really had to humble himself to come forth and concede that  Rauner was the winner. I bet Quinn is thinking about all the money he and the sponsors lost on the negative ads.

Fast, Furious And Fighting

So I turn on the television to Good Morning America and I was somewhat humored by the brawl that broke out after NASCAR driver's, Brad Keselowski and Jeff Gordon had after a race in Texas. NASCAR reports, that the driver's were not fined, but the crew chief of Jeff Gordon, Alan Gustafson was put on probation and fined $50,000 and so was Brad Keselowski's chef. Here is a statement from the the official NASCAR website "Both crew chiefs were found to be in violation of Section 9-4A: Crew chief assumes responsibility for the actions of his team members; Section 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing and Section 12-4.9: Behavioral penalty." My question is, is it fair for the crew chief's to pay at the expense of those who can't control their behavior? I know racing is big business and $50,000 is nothing for them to pay, but who does the payout benefit more, NASCAR or the fans? I believe everyone should be responsible for his or her own action.

DA BULLS!!

Man, did you see  the game the other night?! Chicago Bulls vs the Timberwolves!?! It was bananas!  With Derek Rose spraining his ankle the night before, it seems as some people, including fans, counted the Chicago Bulls out for the season.  The end of the 4th quarter was intense. As I stop folding my clothes at the laundromat, everybody gathered around the mounted flat screen on the wall. It felt like the NBA Finials. With 2.9 seconds left in the game, it looked like the Bulls would be defeated... NOT SO!! Bulter was fouled and he was able to make both free throw shots. The Bulls would win the game 106-105 over the Minnesota Timerwolves! Way to go Chicago!!

News and organizations

           The Chicago Bulls did an awesome job last night. The won against New York Knicks.  Right after the game, I went to bed. When I got up this morning and every morning, I turn on, Good Morning America. I get the breaking news, weather and so much more. Today's musical guest was, Taylor Swift.  All of these great Media outlets like Twitter to keep us informed. WKKC 89.3 FM is a college radio Station located on Kennedy King Campus in Chicago. They allow students to learn and get the experience they need to succeed in the media program.  Another notable news source is the Chicago Tribune. My teacher John Owen, happens to work for this company. I think he really enjoys his job.

Celebrities

Power, powerful and more power .From television Host to Political forces and actress, some of these women and men help influence our country. Oprah had the longest running talk show since the late Johnny Carson. Condoleezza Rice is the former  Secretary of State & National Security Advisor.  Queen Latifah, has gone from, rapper activist, to the big screen and now having her own television talk show. What an awesome example of, against all odds, you can do and be anything you set your mind too.   Last not forget our very own, Robin Robinson, Broadcast journalist of Chicago news 20+ years.  I remember her visit to Kennedy King college Media Dept. I got one good picture of her from afar. I aspire to walk in her shoes one day. But for now, walk with  me as I Tweet on Twitter .

 

I love Music...Any kinda Music!

Yes, I love music. Sometimes I believe I may even sing in my sleep. The reason I have chosen some of these artist, is, they have been very instrumental to my belief and faith in God. Some I have even encountered on a personal level. Well, at least it felt like it upon meeting them. Fred Hammond, Mary Mary, and Reggie Royal & Judah, who happens to be my Senior Pastor of Lifeline Church Chicago, have inspired me to be the best person I can be with the Creator's help! I attended the Gospel Fest last summer in Chicago. I always take my children to events so they too can have memorable moments as well. Mega Duo, Erica And Tina Campbell of Mary Mary departed from their trailer. The crowd screamed their names as they waved back to the crowd. Suddenly, they began to walk in my direction. As I pulled out my phone, my middle daughter Oni, knocked the phone out of my hand in excitement!! I called to the men working behind the stage, but the music was too loud. Erica Campbell heard me and handed me my phone…HOW COOL WAS THAT!! I told her I was the 3rd Mary, and we laughed. No matter how old I get, my love for music will never die. Check out my Twitter account for some more of my interest.

Autobiography* I Am.. Faith

I Am.... Faith

Windy City with Mz. Faith

                                             
  WINDY CITY LIVE


I really enjoyed my day. Got two tickets to the Windy City Live Studio taping. My oldest sister joined me as we waited for the special guest to appear. " Grey's Anatomy" Chandra Wilson and "Top Model" Jaslene Gonzalez were on the show. Although the taping went pretty fast, I made sure I got the opportunity to see my girl, host Val Warner. That's my story and I'm sticking to it in
 the windy city.

Beauty is in the eyes of He who Beholds

I choose these photos because of the richness in color. Each photo highlights a memorable moment in a persons life, that has been captured through the lens of the photographer. Wither on the  windy streets of Chicago or in beautiful France, life is capture by the click of a human.  

# 3 Photo Embed

One World Trade Center, New York City  

 

 

 

 

 

                       

13 years later after the bombing of the Twin Towers in New York, we now see the One World Trade Center.  This photo speaks volumes and reminds us of that tragic day on Sept. 11, 2001. The year before, a friend of mine and I, flow to New York to celebrate her birthday. 7 years later, I would be returning to New York to visit Ground Zero, the place where so many lives where lost. This picture depicts how for we've come as a country and how we can’t allow evil people to destroy our lives, but be can build again and start anew. The families connected to this tragedy will forever be in our thoughts and prayers. This photo is very effective because upon looking at it, you already know the history behind the building.

#2 - Viral Video

                          

   

Because of my love for music, I have done a lot of crazy things while singing in front of a mirror, at home of course.  Putting on lots of makeup or using a brush as a microphone, helps create the illusion that you're a big super star preforming for an audience. With 61,363 thumbs up on Youtube, Scarlet takes a tumble for us all, OUCH! To this day, I still don't know what song Miss Scarlet was singing, but the vision of her falling off a coffee table, will always remain. For all you dancers, the Beyonce Clown might have you reaching for an aspirin once you've seen this video. The Atlanta Grape Lady is another one of my favorites, not because someone got hurt, but a good laugh is harmless.  I'm just saying, use precaution while filming. While somethings are accidental, others can be prevented.

 

                                                        SCARLET TAKES A TUMBLE

#1- News/ Midterm

 

 
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  Karen Lewis is the strong, bold talking labor leader and the President of  Chicago Teachers Union  here in Chicago. This week it was reported, she has suddenly fallen ill; to what resources say is a brain tumor. Although she is now fighting for her life, she had fought for years to see that Chicago Public School teachers and students receive the right funding and education they so deserve. Being a chemistry teacher at King College Prep High School, Ms. Lewis knows first hand what is means to have a solid foundation in education. Her sudden illness has come as a shock to many of her supporters, including myself. I've seen her on television, parades and newspapers proudly standing behind our children, as the teachers wear their red union shirts. I think behind the lioness, this brave woman has a caring heart for our children and the educational system in Chicago.  I wish Ms. Karen Lewis a speedy recovery because without a voice, our children might be left behind.

My name is Faith, and I am a Foodie!!!

Yes, yes, yes! I'm a foodie.  I love trying new foods and introducing my taste buds to exciting flavor. One of my favorite dishes would have to be Mexican Food hands down. Now don't  laugh at me, but when I was a girl, I had an imaginary friend named " TACO".  I knew then, this was going to be the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Some of my favorite places to go are, Los Comales, Uncles Joes, Famous Dave's and of course,  Cooper's Hawk Winery  I have also fallen love with  this cozy little restaurant in Hyde Park called Cedars- Mediterranean.  This is a great place for a first date or a small gathering for family and friends. The Tiger Shrimp or maybe the grilled lamp chops, my mouth is watering just by typing it. Because the economy is so expensive,  I like to cook at home as well and create dishes I have tried. There are plenty of websites with recipes on how to cook like a pro. Here's to Foodie Lovers everywhere,  Bon' appetit!

What a WONDER!!

Stevie Wonder. Need I say more? This musical genius had cultivated the world with his undeniable,  energetic soulful sound. He has capture many hearts through his love songs and work as a humanitarian.  Since I was a little girl, I've loved me some Stevie. I could remember seeing his album cover, and thinking all of that soulful funk is coming from this one man.  One of my favorite album of his is, Songs in the Key of Life.  I could listen to him all day!! Born blind, Stevland Hardaway Judkins, did not let his disability stop him from playing and singing to sold out audiences all across the world. He was signed to Motown Records at the age eleven and was given the  stage name, Little Stevie Wonder by Berry Gordy. And the rest is history . I've always said, if I ever got  chance to met him, I would love to record a song with him. Or he could just write me one. Well, Stevie Wonder fans, the iconic legend is on tour and will be in Chicago at the United Center on Nov. 17th, 2014. So if there's anyone going, grab a ticket for your girl and " KNOCK ME OFF MY FEET" !!

You have my vote ... maybe.

So here we are, people from all walks of life, lined up to embrace an historical moment in history to see, First Lady Michelle Obama. The line could be seen for blocks as we all waited in the clean air to get a closer look at where our country is headed this election. The rally was held at the UIC Pavilion located on Racine St. here in Chicago. All though the supports of Pat Quinn, current Governor Of  Illinois, were all present, you could hear the whispers of voters, saying the First Lady's name.  All phones and cameras were ready as they PUMPED the crowd to vote this coming election. Secretary Jesse White  spoke well of his support for Governor Pat Quinn. He let it be know he and pat Quinn were great friends and he jokingly stated, he could take our drivers licensed away. The crowd laughed .We also heard from others, such as Attorney General Lisa Madigan, and Congressman Danny K. Davis just to name a few. They talked about women equality, planned parenthood and raising minimum wages here in Illinois. After all that talking, I'm not sure who I'm casting my vote for. The commercials don't make it any better. In my opinion, all they are doing is down-talking one another and everybody that's running is the bad guy.  Which leaves me questions. Who gets my vote? Pat Quinn or Bruce Rauner?  See you in November!!


      

My friend and I waiting to see First Lady

                               

         

The crowds anticipates Pat Qinn

No excuse.... On and Off the Field

Ray, Ray,Raaay!!! What were you thinking? Well, from the looks of it, probably nothing . A number of things can  happen to the body when one is full of rage and anger. Studies show that there are many health effects that come along with a person that has a bad temper. A bad temper can increase the risk of a heart attack, stork, ulcers, and stomach problem, just to name of few. But from this video, no one can see what's happening on the inside of Ray rice. We only see him knocking this then fiancé, to the floor of an empty elevator. Ray Rice is the former player of Baltimore Ravens. He was terminated after this video surfaced early Sept. Allegedly, NFL Players Association say they had know knowledge of the video, and claimed to have seen it when the rest of the world did.... yeah right.  No man should ever hit a woman for any reason, and no woman should ever hit a man. respect is lost and you are treated as such when you choose to stay with that person.then after that you marry the man? Not me.  I know some women might not agree, but if you hit a man, his natural reaction is to hit back. Im sorry, I'm not one sided on this issue. It's a shame that some women think love should hurt, physically. I am not judging, but there is no excuse for domestic violence, on or off the field. 

 Violence is so common now, even in our communities. Some people are bringing it to the streets.

The Show Must Go On

Anybody that knows me, know that I am not a huge fan of Beyonce Cater. She is the  former lead vocalist of the musical group, Destiny's Child.  Aside from her provocative performances,  I do have to admit, she is most talented in her ability to sing, dance and capture an audience with her moves.  Being in the spotlight, can bring about a lot of pressure. Now days, people expect you to be flawless. Others  may even feel that with the kind of  lifestyle she has, there is no room for error because she has money, right? Wrong.  Life can bring about sudden changes. One day you'er up, and the next, down.  But I believe the best lesson one can learn is, knowing how to BOUNCE BACK! Sure you might stumble along the way or even hit your head a few times. DONT stay there. Believe it or not, there are people rooting for you, cheering you on, waiting for you to succeed. Just take a lesson from Beyonce.   You'll feel so much better when you stand against defeat and look fear in the eye and say, THE SHOW MUST GO ON! 

The Joy of Music

Faith Haygood

Out of all the wonderful gifts God  has given me, the one I'm most passionate about is my love for SINGING.  For me, singing is a way for me to express myself so I do it ALL day. Well when appropriate. My children have inherited this gift as well, and I LOVE teaching them new songs. My family calls me 

 " backstage mom".  Music has the ability to change your mood, take you back down memory lane, or even empower you to become the best you can be.  I believe, music can even heal a person's soul.  Which bring me to my next point, music can even make you laugh, well at least the person singing it.  Miss Ebony Jerkins, superstar in her own right. She seems like the normal teenager, who has a dream to become a diva like so many others such as , Pattie Labelle , Yolanda Adams and the unforgettable,  Late Whitney Houston.  I found this video not only funny, but inspiring at the same time. No matter what, Ebony Jenkins will always be a Superstar to me. Here's a video of myself, Faith Haygood singing at church here in Chicago.

Gone too Soon

For anyone that has live in Chicago for any lenght of time, knows the most highlighted events that  goes on in our city. We have the Taste of Chicago during our summer months and watching Chicago's Thanksgiving Parade in the winter. But in between, there are numerous amounts of reports relating to shooting and killing is our neighborhoods'.  When I talk to some of my friends who are parents, they express how difficult it is to raise children  these days. Not just boys, but girls as well. They seem to become accidental  targets when the shooters aim was for someone else. But know one should be shot. Wither the person was innocent or not, gun laws still haven't changed which means, we'll continue to see blood on our Chicago's streets.

AROUND HYDE PARK WE GO!

What beautiful city we live in, filled with so much to see and do. I believe Hyde Park is one of Chicago's best kept secret. Especially to the newer generation, who flood the Starbucks located on the corner of 53rd and Lake Park. Hyde Park is filled with so much history. I'd like to think of it as a historical " Melting Pot". The  University Of Chicago keeps the community young and vibrate. Most of the time, you will see students walking, and laughing as they head to their next class. The Black Stone library on the other hand, is one of our family's favorite.  We visit here at least once a week . My children get to take out books and movies for FREE!! How cool is that?  For a unforgettable learning experience, the Dusable Museum if where you'll find me. I love coming here because the exhibits change from season to season. From rich wall paintings, to hand craft sculptures ,believe it or not, this is a great spot for a first date, wink. The museum can also be rented out at night for special events like concerts, plays and social gathering. Just around the way, cafe  Valoi's cafe, the sits next to Mellow Yellow's Restaurant ,is a buzzing yet cozy   location was made know all over the world as President Obama  favorite places to eat.  You will find Dusable Museum and The Museum Of Science and Industry  are a few mile apart as around Hyde park we go! So click the link below.

Take a look at the CUBS

Baseball, America's favorite pastime. Chicago has two teams. One of which happens to be on the north side of the city. The Chicago Cubs Just recently, it has been rumored that Jason Hammel just might fit in to the Cubs plan again. If this is true, let's keep our fingers crossed for a title this year, although I'm a White Sox fan! Lets take a look at a moment in time with ,THE CUBS.

One Last Look

          From the moment we turn on the television, all we see is violence.

A young boy or girl, being gun down due to senseless shootings in our communities.

My heart goes out to anyone who has been a victim, not only in Chicago, but across the United States. The people I think who suffers the most are the parents or those who help raise that child. I choose these three pictures because they show the stages leading up to the finial good bye. The tear they cry, could never bring them back. After family and friends have paid their last respects, and the media and cameras are gone, the love ones are yet holding on to that ONE LAST LOOK.

faithbook

Faithbook or as you may know the real name Facebook.Yep, we have embarked upon something that we consider our "own". The all to familiar  social media site where people's thoughts, pictures,  daily news and advertising takes place....ALL DAY. It can be accessed through your mobile device, laptop, home computer or tablet. If people say they are not hooked on Facebook they are lying. You can see that blue screen shining on the faces of those who are locked into Facebook just about everywhere you go. Those that do not have an account, don't understand the adrenaline rush one gets when a notifications pops up or a inbox message from an old school friend appears. It's exciting to see who said what!!  Statistics says, Facebook has 1.317 billion active users as of June 2014 stated on the website expanded rambling.com. So just image how many people as of  have created an account. 

Although I do like this site a lot, I am careful about what I post. On "Faithbook" I like to encourage people by putting up words of inspiration. A corny joke or pictures, which we call " Selfies". I like the fact that I can connect with my family from out of town or find out whats going on in the city. There's so many rescoures that can be discovered if you use Facebook for good intent. But not all context that people post are appropriate. I have seen disturbing pictures and videos that I wouldn't want any of my children to see, so therefore they don't have an account. There is an age limit, but these kids know more about the computer then some grown-ups. Some of the context is too graphic for adults as well. You might not have the liberty to control what someone else put on their page, but delete or continue scrolling with that thumb is a great option.  So post away, keep it fun and exciting. It's just a social site, but don't make it your LIFE! Here's a picture of  Ravi Baichwal of  ABC NEWS and I.

The World of Interactive Media Meets Mz. Faith

 With all of the things I could write about, today I will talk about myself. Prideful? I think not.  I consider myself as the fictional female character, Wonder Woman! Sometimes it seems as if I'm doing  100 thing's at one time. This is common amongst single parents but we manage to sort things out somehow. I am a mother of 3 wonderful children, 2 girls and 1 boy. My roots have been planted in this great city on the South Side of Chicago where I was raised. I now live in Hyde Park. I'm a professional Hairstylist of 10 years and looking forward to a owning a chain of salons in the near future. 

I'm so excited about this school year at Kennedy King College  My area of study is Media Communications. This semester, I have been intrigued with the classes I"ll be taking. One in particular is, Interactive Media!! This is the mother load to learning about the tools we use everyday that seems to consume our lives.  You might ask, " What is  Interactive Media?" Well, I'll just say this, its all digital, hands on, varying in video to auto and graphics. To some it up...Anyone can produce it!! With being introduce to the MAC computer, paired with instructor, Mr. John Owens of the, Chicago Tribune, this is going to be a exciting 16 weeks. Let's go!!