Stay One Up

Let's Redefine Who's The Best Rapper

November 7, 2011

With all due respect to the children, and mother, of the late Christopher Wallace, why are we embracing or celebrating the fact that many agree with the idea that Biggie was one of the best, or most influential rappers ever. If this is true, then the message of MLK, Malcolm X, and the Original Black Panther Party has been lost. This is no attack against the late Wallace, as a person, but most of his music spoke of selling drugs, violence, and promoted the drinking of alcohol and having sex. Yes, "Juicy” was a positive feel good single, but the rest of the album was crack to the minds of the youth, or anyone else who embraced it. And I mean crack in the “bad” way, (I also enjoyed it, just like many others). If only he could have been coasted to use his talents, to promote the ideals of social entrepreneurship. Imagine Biggie painting a perfect picture of how to go about community building, and political posturing. But then I remember how young these artists are, when they are enticed by the record industry. As a young man who had never really read the messages spoken by past leaders and organizations, I have to remind myself that I was also ignorant and blind as a youth. Often drinking alcohol, smoking weed, and putting my energies in rapping about sex, drugs and superficial concepts, which are cement blocks in our society. Christopher just happened to be better then most, introducing new rhythms, and wordsmith styles, while rapping about those flawed ideals. Imagine how more effective of an orator (for good) he would have been, if he was conscious enough to have taught the codes of the original panthers, in his music, or if he was in agreement with the values of King, or if he had the knowledge of Malcolm, or Garvey. Imagine if Biggie had a jam talking about self-reliance and collective building as a community, as spoken about by Marcus Garvey. So with all the current rappers, it’s up to us to decide, whom are the most influential (in a positive way) to us, moving forward. I also have an article called “The Rap Music Manifesto” I hope you read this, and the dialog continues to spread. There is a war going on between good and evil. We have to choose which side we are on.

Posted by saye.

I Pledge Allegiance

September 30, 2011

By Saye Taryor - Monday 27 Jun 2011

Don’t pledge allegiance to a flag, a flag is but a cloth to me.
You tell me that the flag I see, means freedom, one in unity.
You tell me no place will I find, the liberty with which I seek.
Say if I can’t salute this flag, then find another place to sleep.
But listen closely to my words, and heed the message I reveal.
Allegiance that I pledge is real, no symbolism gives me thrill.
A country is but made of men, and mostly men will disagree.
A country changes year to year, and noble men are whom I hear.
So brothers home, or ones abroad, who speak within a noble cause.
With liberty, for one for all, no matter where the land or shores.
The freedom and equality are not the things I’ve yet to see.
Must pay to sleep, must pay to eat, must pay to live, your pledge you keep.
Will work from morning deep to dawn, to build the love I speak upon.
Deceive and use the flag no more, I’ll break divides and reach out more.
To all of those around the world, who share the values that you hear.

I pledge allegiance to the ones, who join me in the quest we dare.

Posted by saye.

Six Simple Solutions To American Politics

September 28, 2011

Over Population of American Jails

Jails should only be owned, and run, by the state. No state, or individual should be able to make a profit from the creation of a jail or prison. Wages earned by inmates should be the same as the minimum wage rendered within the state in which the jail , or prison, is located. If inmates have children, some of the monies, earned from their labor, should go to their children to aid for their living expenses. For individuals who will be released in the future, some of the monies they have earned, (from their hard labor) should be set aside and handed to them during their release date, so they will not have to depend on the state immediately for financial assistance. This option would of course only be given to individuals displaying good behavior, having had no prior criminal record.

On States Making People Take Drug Test Who Receive Government Assistance

Mandate that all individuals, who request for federal or state financial assistance, be required to first pass a drug screening. If CEO’s ask for bailout money, make them take drug test. If small business owners ask for loans, make them take a drug test first. Equal treatment is the theme. If you are not willing to drug test all groups of individuals, do not mandate drug testing for hand picked groups throughout society. Treat others, as you would like to be treated.

Monitoring Elected Officials/ Unemployment

Mandate that each state examine their unemployment outlook, and allow each state to provide a detailed proposal for federal assistance, showing specifically how each dollar will be spent. Demand that a progress report be given each quarter, and have bullet points that describe how progress will be monitored. This helps to hold selected state officials to more accountability to the failures, and successes, of their governing. It also helps to document, in more detail, specific projects successes and failures. Using this method, government officials are no longer able to hide behind failed legislations, philosophies, or to play politics behind party lines.

Taxes

Individuals should not have to pay federal taxes. The federal government should only collect taxes from states. Individual states should be able to decide if they want to use the fair tax policy, the 9 percent policy, or if they want to tax the wealthiest 2 percent of corporations, or individual incomes within each state a little more. If a state decides to tax less, it can do so, the state will still be responsible for paying federal taxes, based on the amount of federal money and assistance it receives annually.

Allow individual states to control and dictate corporate regulations, mandates, and taxes. That way, people can better hold elected officials accountable. Results showing the cost of living, job creation, job growth, the quality of schools, will eventually determine which philosophical outlooks and strategies work.

Corporate mandates and pricing, nationally, should not be based on the laws of the state in which the corporate headquarters are located. Corporate pricing, or mandates, for national customers, should vary, via individual states. If I live in Maryland, and government officials in Maryland decide to enforce strict corporate regulations, if I want to maintain a chain store in Maryland, I would have to agree to the mandates and the pricing guidelines set by the state of Maryland. If Rhode Island state laws are different, customers in Maryland might receive a different price or interest rate on similar items. Corporations can choose, and decide, if they want to sell their products or services within each state. This should eliminate corporate monopolies. It also allows people to decide if their elected officials are looking out for their best interest, and it allows governing and political philosophies to be dissected. In years time, if the methods, used by government officials in Rhode island, increase the cost of living for individuals living in the state, and corporations decline selling products and services in the state, people living in Rhode Island will eventually vote for political leaders who suggest (based on factual evidence) that the state adopt to different policies used by other states, having more success rates in cost of living, job creation, school quality, etc.

Evaluating the Job of Presidents

Make a list of how many proposals the president creates and presents to congress. Make a list of each item within the proposal that was passed by the house and congress. Document the ideas that were not passed by congress and the house. Follow the life of the legislations that were passed quarterly, and monitor it’s effectiveness. Note and document why it did or did not work quarterly make it public. Some time legislations work for some and not for others. Make sure to follow this closely while documenting results. Some time legislation does not go into effective immediately, so take all things into consideration. Watch video of previous elections, and document promises and political platforms taken by the president. Monitor immediate explanations, if promises are not kept. Monitor attempts for solutions, roadblocks, and challenges that exist. Read bills and legislations which are vetoed by the president. Make a list of bills and legislations that are passed by the president. Decide which legislations and bills effect you directly, (for the bills which have gone into effect) and read them (as much as you can) to try to figure out if you agree with them or not. Don’t let political pundits dictate your reality. Don’t assume some one else analysis is the truth. Even those who may be affiliated with your political philosophy may not be trusted to not have biases, when they are evaluating. Try to eliminate bias, and look more at, results, production, and how “you”, have been affected, by bills passed, or not passed, specifically.

Self Evaluation and Moral Conduct

Treat others how you would like to be treated. Examine and critique others how you would like to be examined. Criticize others how you would like to be criticized, and talk about, and to others, how you would like to be spoken to, or about. Ask questions to self examine who you are, and what you feel about the world around you. A good self evaluation read is “What do you Think”,

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Posted by saye.

No Dancing Around Youth Issues With Eshe

September 25, 2011

Read the full transcript of The Examiner’s recent interview with Eshe of Arrested Development below.

Saye Taryor: Greetings Eshe. I would first like to start by thanking you for allowing this interview. Please share a little background information about yourself and elaborate some on those youth lectures you have become accustomed to doing.

Eshe: My name is Eshe and I was born and raised in Atlanta, Ga. I am a daughter, mother, mentor, teacher, entertainer, dancer, actress, choreographer, songwriter, singer, and author. As you can see, I have many titles. I began my journey in the entertainment world at the age of thirteen, and I am still going strong today. At the age of two, my mom taught me how to dance and that sparked something in me. Growing up, seeing my mom work with lots of young people, and how it brought joy to her life, made me want to follow in her footsteps. Like my mom, I work with young people both male & female from all walks of life. I taught my first dance class at age fourteen, to four and five year olds, and loved the feeling. Today, I teach dance, do workshops lecturing on all sorts of topics; ranging from the music industry to everyday life struggles. I love what I do and I will continue to help others for as long as my spirit will allow me.

Saye Taryor: How long have you been lecturing to young women and what are some of the themes and topics you usually focus on during these lectures?

Eshe: I've been working with young people, male and female since the early 90's. I've always had a passion for it and I still am very active with the youth of today. The topics that I deal with when I'm speaking to young ladies are, self esteem, respecting there bodies, developing there gifts, life skills, how to carry themselves as ladies, how to conduct themselves in any situation they may encounter, hygiene, communication, the type of music that they listen to, and how it makes them feel, etc. Depending on the environment, the topics will change. Sometimes, I open the floor for them to tell me what they want to have dialogue about... that's always interesting.

Saye Taryor: How do you feel about the concept of teaching young people how to become critical and independent thinkers, instead of teaching them what to think?

Eshe: I think that it's very important because we have been conditioned to think a certain way in this society. I always tell my students to use their minds. God blessed you with a great mind, now use it. Don't follow the crowd, and do what's best for you. If we do all the thinking for them, they won't understand the power of thought. They will never tap into that creative, intellectual mind. I say to them, research, study for yourself, and then come back to me and give me what your perspective is on this issue, or situation. I love to see young people's mind working because not only can they learn something from me, but I can learn something from them as well.

Saye Taryor: Is the ultimate objective of each lecture the same, and if so, what is the objective of the lectures?

Eshe: The objective varies from lecture to lecture. At the end of the day, my objective is that someone sees beyond where they are in the present. To understand their purpose in life and have the courage to walk in it. To know that they have the power to change themselves for the better, their communities for the better, and the world for the better. To have self-love, respect themselves and others, and know that they can accomplish anything that they set their minds to. That they're powerful in thought, mind, body, and soul.

Saye Taryor: What advice do you have for young women who are interested in the music industry?

Eshe: First, I would say get an education. Finish school, and if you are able to get higher learning, do so. This business is not for the weak or the timid. It's a tough, challenging and demanding business. If you're not ready for it, you will fall by the wayside. You have to be passionate about anything that you do and do it in excellence. Learn all that you can about every aspect of the business, perfect your talent, have goals set for yourself that are reachable, and be a hard worker. Stay focused, surround yourself with positive people, people who really love you, and stay humble.

Saye Taryor: What is one of the major problems you find young girls dealing with today, and what do you usually suggest when this issue is presented to you?

Eshe: Wow! There are so many things that young girls are facing today. One major issue that I hear about is the absentee father. I grew up with both of my parents in the home, however, my father was not an active participant in my life... I can definitely relate. I tell them that it's okay to be angry and hurt, just don't let those emotions overtake them. Focus on what you have, instead of what you don't have, and that everything will work out for the best. Pray for your father to have positive change come in his life and for your relationship with your father to be a fruitful one. At the age of 17, God brought my spiritual father in my life, and he changed my entire opinion towards men in a positive way. Not by what he said, but by his actions. I knew that he truly cared about my well being with no string attached, and he's still my spiritual father, even today.

Saye Taryor: Do you have any upcoming projects or lectures you would like to let the readers know about?

Eshe: Yes, I'm currently working on a solo project to be released later in 2011, I have a movie that I play the lead role in called "Gorgeous Knight" that's slated to be released this year, I'm a cast member on a fresh new television show that will be out either late 2011 or 2012, currently, I'm touring with Arrested Development promoting our latest record "Strong" and gearing up for our 20 year anniversary in the music biz. Arrested Development will drop a mixtape entitled "20" to commemorate our 2O years in the biz. I'm also, writing a book about my journey in life, starting a dance company/entertainment school for young people, and doing dance workshops all over the globe.

Saye Taryor: Man, and I thought I was busy. Where should the readers go to purchase previous and new musical projects, and how can they contact you if they are interested in booking you for performances, or public speaking engagements?

Eshe: You may reach me at facebook.com/esheafrosoul, twitter.com/eshe2xGrammy, or www.esheafrosoul.com, and to purchase all Arrested Development music, check out, www.arresteddevelopmentmusic.com, Amazon & itunes. I also did a collaboration with a Japanese artist named Mabanua, called “Love Sick”, off of his debut album, "Done Already", that's available for purchase as well on itunes. To book ESHE for performances or speaking engagements, you may contact Yenketa Erica @ 818.220.6156 & yenketa1@gmail.com. Peace & blessings.

Posted by saye.

Rap Music Manifesto

September 25, 2011

Overview

We respectfully demand more from those artists who claim to represent our communities, while they promote violence, guns, sex, drugs and alcohol consumption. As an artist, I also was guilty of sometimes rhyming about such issues, so I am not just pointing the finger, trying to bad-mouth others. Let’s make no mistakes here: I am sure some artists give back to their communities annually, and many of their efforts are never highlighted by the media. Despite all of that, many artists still support the system that keeps our communities in turmoil and in economic shambles. They continue to promote drugs, sex and violence in their music, under the idea that it is just entertainment, and that movie producers are doing the same, (which they are), using this as an excuse to hold no accountability and responsibility for their actions. Others claim they are just reporting what is going on in their hood, or bringing light to the negative issues which exist. The analysis concerning the cause of the problems within our communities, and the violence that exists within our communities, has been going on for long enough. Now seriously, who’s still falling for the idea that songs (poetry) about how you smoked the guy who stole your quarter pound of weed, or how you smashed the broad you saw in the club last night, gets people united to solve problems?

How about highlighting news in the hood that makes a difference? If people are selling dope, then don’t brag about how much dope you sell or smoke. Make songs explaining that there is a problem with drug use and drug distribution. Explain some of the reasons why people are selling dope. If you’re into creative writing, tell the horror story example of the person who is trapped in the game, and then at the end, let the kids know this is a story that needs to be resolved. Share your opinions on ways to attack the problem. Discuss these issues during concerts, on Twitter, Facebook, and on your website. Share multiple outlooks and ways to improve conditions, attached to the songs, so it won’t just look like you’re promoting the violence and the foolishness we hear all around us.

If you’re a gangster who decided to get out the streets, into the booth, keep it 100 and go for the all around improvement and elevation. Don’t behave the same way with your mouth in the booth as if you were still in the streets. In some cases, these “Gangsters” are harder in the booth than they were in the streets. Most of the music promoted by record labels has a negative impact on many individuals around you. Think about being more diverse in your message; if you are really trying to make a positive change out of the crime life, do so. The reality is that most artists are just exploiting this negative lifestyle for self-glorification and for capital. They have sold their souls for a little gold. Many conscious artists are banned from radio and are not picked up by major labels. The ones who are signed are forced by their labels to create songs promoting sex, drugs and violence for financial gain. If they do not comply, they are usually shelved away. We advise the artist to break away from the artistic chains, and to create a critical thinking movement, dealing with educational and economical empowerment within low-income communities. We ask that artists create a new communication line with their fans, getting more positive and useful messages out to the masses. In turn I, and an army of others who support this cause, will help you promote and sell your artistic works. This way, you will no longer have to compromise your integrity and brainwash the minds of children. Yes, parents are still responsible for raising their own children, but artists set trends and create appeal, and we understand this.

What we ask from the artists:

Create and perform more positive and conscious music.
Reduce the promotion of guns, sex, drugs and violence in your music and in your videos.
Speak on the problems that exist in your communities without glorifying it in your music (be more creative as an artist)
Promote nonprofit organizations, and difference-makers in the community, the same way in which you promote alcoholic beverages and clothing companies.
Join together and strategically maximize your strengths, by gathering resources, and investing in low-income communities in order to help build them back up.
Clearly explain to younger viewers, listeners and consumers that you are an entertainer and that your negative songs are not to be mocked as a lifestyle. Don’t confuse children by promoting violence and drug use in your videos, and then by giving charity. Give young people clarity as to what your principals are, and where you stand on social issues.
Be responsible for the things you say. We all make mistakes, now it is time to stand up like men and women, and to pull each other up. Instead of waiting for government and for one great leader among our ranks, we can use our talents and unite to make the necessary changes we need to survive in an oppressive unproductive society.

Consumers and Fans

We have to hold the media and the artists responsible for what they present to us. When they claim to represent our communities in their songs and in their videos, we have to demand that they communicate our needs in a responsible manner, without glorifying only the negative daily events, only for capitalistic gain. We have to demand that record companies allow artist to create more conscious and positive music, and eliminate some of the negative images within music videos.

On the back-hand, we then need to support the artists by purchasing those conscious and positive songs. Sex, money, and drugs, has always been the key element of the entertainment industry, but we can no longer allow ourselves to be exploited by artists and big businesses. Major radio stations needs to play conscious and positive songs, more often than they currently do. The consumer has to demand these changes. Artists with subjective political views are often banned from radio, but artists talking about selling drugs, pimping females, and drinking poison, are often praised with additional rotational spins. Record labels are in business to make wealth, and the power of the consumer dictates how much wealth these labels gain. We need to create financial avenues for those conscious artists who support our agenda. Artists need to be able to break the chains of their record labels, and to be able to make a living. If we support these artists, they can in-turn, freely and sincerely speak on our behalf, without worrying about the consequences of political scrutiny and record label suppression.

First step is to circulate and create dialogue concerning this article.

Posted by saye.

NEWS UPDATE ON POSSIBLE FALL LECTURE

April 16, 2011

(Read Entire Proposal Online Here)

We are currently contacting college professors and student union organizations about hosting a two-panel speaker lecture, in the fall of 2011, under the theme of "Urban Challenges, And The Importance Of Critical Thinking Education."

Lecture Justification

• So why is this lecture so important? Self-improvement and social improvement are presupposed values of critical thinking. Meaning critical thinking requires an effort to see others and our selves accurately. This requires recognizing gaps between ideals and practice. This lecture is important because it aims for self and social improvement.

• Strategies of improving everyday thinking are introduced to the audience.

• Students, hoping to become the next line of community leaders and educators confront hands on knowledge of ways to improve their chances of succeeding, during and after, they leave their respected institutions.

• Individuals who desire to be involved in the process of improving urban communities are introduced to techniques that will improve their critical thinking, eventually enhance how they notice and refrain from using biases and generalizations. They also are introduced to techniques that will allow them to eventually become more aware of the wide range outlooks and interpretations of urban challenges, allowing for better comprehension on how and what notions to accept or reject, while dealing with daily challenges.

• Educators and their students openly engage in a lecture that allows students to learn a new approach to learning and evaluating information, while teachers can use this information to figure out new ways in get their students more excited and involved in their weekly presentations.

All Inquiries, please contact:

Saye Taryor Phone: 301-925-8405 or 202-390-1382

Email: 1upentertainment@gmx.com

Website: www.1upentertainment.synthasite.com

Posted by Saye Taryor.

“Homeless, living in America”

April 9, 2011

Have you ever been approached by a homeless panhandler? I would normally spare a dollar, or whatever little change was dangling in my pockets, when those moments took place. I’ve wondered how these individuals found themselves in such a predicament, where they were homeless, jobless, and broke. The thought never crossed my mind that some day I would be the individual begging for change and searching for a place to sleep deep into the night. I mean, come on, I had a full time corporate job, which I had been working for over 7 years, family and friends that I felt would hold me down, a few dollars saved in my bank account, an upcoming consulting business, and not to mention my income tax refund that was do every year. So how could a single bachelor go from traveling from Mississippi, New York, and back to Atlanta, on business meetings, lose everything overnight? The explanation is a very difficult one to navigate through, but I will try to illuminate to the best of my abilities. I remember the turning point as if it took place yesterday. One of my former high school classmates proceeded to drop me home from the transit station after a disappointing meeting in New York City with one of my music industry comrades. The negative energy from that day was in overflow. Back at the office the following morning, the managers at my corporate job were keeping everyone posted on the possibilities of our jobs being sent to India. Discussions of a possible severance packages were outlined, while we were constantly thanked by management for our continuous hard work. In a way, I wanted my job to be sent overseas so I could have an excuse to go all out with my business. 1up Entertainment was once a record label, in transition of becoming an organization, which specialized in nonprofit consulting. The transition would take hard work, but this was the break I would need. So like I always did, I took time to evaluate the pro’s and con’s of my decision to go full time into developing 1up Entertainment into its new direction. Let’s see, a few thousand dollars from my tax return, constant flow of dollars surging in from the severance package for the first few months, maybe some unemployment if need be, and I managed to save a few dollars from the job. Now would then cut my expenses by sharing the rent and living expenses with a relative while living up north or out west. In both cases, I could collaborate my services and job experience with this relative to help them with their business and income stream. Did I mention I continued to apply for jobs weekly, leaving a safety net to continue in the same path of corporate security? So see, I was prepared for the worst to come, so I thought.

After feeling heavy pressure from management at my corporate job to walk away, I prepared my two-week notice once I was mentally prepared to head up north to gamble with the family business collaboration. I figured, worse case, I would easily land a Job at Walmart or Target if need be. Plus, I had several thousands of dollars to survive on, which would give me time to find some sort of work, if the business revenue came in too slow. After sending in my two-week notice, I decided I was not yet ready to leave, so I stayed at the job for another month. After a month, I decided I was finally ready to head up north, but I had forgotten to rewrite my two-week notice. I had left the job, and a week later, I received calls from individuals asking about my where bouts. My frame of mind was, I had already turned in a two-week notice, but just hung around two more weeks before leaving. My boss saw it as me leaving without giving the company a two-week notice. Knowing it would be a more expensive move, renting a truck to haul all my personal belongings up north, I sold a few of my material belongings, but left most behind, like my 60” HD television and my bed and dressers. Relationships with so called friends and family were currently strained, so I had no one to wish me the best as I packed my little Nissan to the max, and headed on my 15 hour journey to New England. Hope never went away that things would turn out for the best, but there was no doubt in my mind that my safety net was no longer looming from corporate headquarters. Not to mention I could never be rehired if I had changed my mind, due to the little fiasco between my boss and myself. By the way, the job was never sent to India. To cut the chase, nothing up north worked, and the tension between my relative and I was OC … out of control. Still having a few thousands in my account, I decided to move back to Atlanta, this time only taking half of by belongings, which I had recently taken up north. No job, and no place to really stay. Sure, I had a few people I knew, but it was obvious none of them really wanted me in their home, being that I didn't have a job. Did I mention that I do not smoke or drink alcohol? Anyway, I religiously found myself in the local library searching for work and rebuilding a marketing and promoting concept for my business. I also took the time to read as many books as I could to educate myself on issues and trades, which I had limited knowledge of. It kept me off the streets and in a productive and more peaceful frame of mind. After one of my classmates informed me that he would not be able to allow me to spend the night in his home the following day, I had finally come to the realization that I was now homeless. I had no place to sleep, other than in my car, and nobody could care less. Sleeping in my car went from one day to two days, and two days to two weeks. For some reason I found comfort in riding around the city in my car when I wasn’t in the library, so my daily routine became an expensive habit. The usual routine consisted of, waking up at 5 am in the morning, shaving, taking a wash up, and brushing my teeth in the local park restroom. I would then drive around a little as I waited for the local library to open. Let me guess, some of you are asking, where were your family and friends? All I can say is that, they were aware of the situation. Some wished me good luck, while others were nowhere to be found. One relative offered a room in the east coast but I still had hope that I would find work sooner, then later. I mean, a strong man like myself would surely be able to stock shelves at a grocery store. I applied for work and no responses came my way. An occasional hotel stint kept me fresh, but weeks turned to months, and at some point, I eventually ran out of money. I managed to sell a few of my company shirts I had stashed away, but that was gas money, meaning it did not last long. Calls and emails went out to family and friends, while panhandling was my next strategic move to gather up money for gas. I found a place that issued food once every two weeks, and I refused to live in a shelter, afraid that all of my personal belongings would be stolen from my car. I can recall the individuals I ran into who confronted me with distrust, disgust, and mockery. Being looked down upon from someone you are begging for money is a humiliating but humbling feeling. As for the process, my objective was to get 10 dollars a day. I issued seven dollars for gas and three dollars for food if needed. During that time, my body was conditioned to eating one meal a day. The weight lost did not bother me at all.

Despite the struggles, good luck still happen to find it's way to me during this time. Two relatives, and one former Co-worker, eventually opened their doors, allowing for a little success with my newly vamped business. I was able to work with a seasoned professional, creating “Generation Y”, a leadership training workshop, leading students into role-play and critical thinking. We allowed students to take the position of hypothetically developing a nonprofit organization, and sharing what benefits the organization would have in their community. During this time, I managed to contact and work with several non profit organizations, creating sponsorship proposals, speaking with youths concerning the importance of critical thinking and social entrepreneurship, created several marketing campaigns (commercial treatments), and managed to establish, my one man show, (1up Entertainment) company’s brand. I may have informed a few of my clients that I was homeless, but I was never taken seriously. For a homeless guy, I had managed to keep myself fresh for majority of the stint. I would like to thank all the individuals who had my back, and who continue to be supportive of me during my quest. My entire perspective on homelessness has changed due to my experience. No longer having the safety net of the weekly corporate checks, health benefits, and paid vacations, I also have a deeper appreciation for the hard work independent business owners put in to survive daily. During the last few months, I’ve been blessed to have a few people in my corner, and I hope to be able to repay them by working hard, and with my dedication to the promotion of social entrepreneurship and critical thinking. The thought of me panhandling is still fresh in my mind, and I would like to avoid that from happening again.

Posted by Saye Taryor.

Staying 1up. For the 18 year old or The Teenager Preparing for HS Graduation

March 30, 2011

Before you get a student loan to attend a college you can not afford, please read this article first.

Does it make sense to be in college if you are going to be paying off debt and working for someone else for the next 20 years after your graduation?

How will attending college improve your life and the lives of the people around you?

Your credit rating is very important. Do you know when to reject student loans?

While you’re in college, where and how can you gain valuable work experience?

Why is social entrepreneurship important?

How can you stay 1up concerning your community and your future?

Before you rush to go off to college on a student loan, do the following and you will be ahead of the curve.

Obtain a business license in your home state. It’s ok if you don’t know anything about business at this point. Think of something you are interested in and give the business a name. The state will let you know if the name is available when you try to register the name. Depending on what type of business you select, I like to suggest getting the L.L.C. for the business structure. This should not cost more then $100. Read up on the issue and self educate yourself.

After you get your Employee Identification Number or (EIN), Open a business bank account at any local bank. All you will need is about $25 to open the account. You will be provided a company debit card. Based on your credit rating, you may also be able to apply for a company credit card. Whatever you purchase on this card, pay it back in full immediately. This will help you build the company’s trade credit line.

Apply and get a business card with one or two of the following vendors:

Walmart

Target

Office Depot

BestBuy

The Home Depot

Any Gas Business Card

Ask local vendors if they issue out business cards.

Save all your receipts

Find a Job…Any job for the time being. If you can hold a job down for at least six months, you will be in good shape when tax time comes around.

Plan to file your taxes yourself under turbo tax, or something similar online next year. This year, make sure to talk to someone who prepares taxes and let them walk you through it your first time around. Let them know you have an EIN number with all your receipts.

Never Accept Student Loans…Stay Away From Loans

Be open to attending the local Junior College, as long as you can afford to pay for it without having to get loans.

Get a library card and check out free books on the profession and trade you are interested in. Self Educate Yourself.

Volunteer your time with someone who knows and is involved in doing an actual skilled trade. Make sure the trade is commonly in high demand. Learn as much as you possibly can and ask a lot of questions. Reading about the trade is also something you can do for free at the local library. If you decide to work for someone else in the corporate world and by chance you are ever laid off. Make sure you are capable of doing more then one job, and that your trade is usually in high demand. Examples of skilled trades that are usually in high demand are:

Plumping

Auto mechanic

Computer Technician

Don’t buy a new car or get a car note. Get that $1,200 car or save up a little more and purchase a new car.

Let go of your ego and buy the bulk of your clothes at places like Good will and the salvation army. They sell a lot of items that are hardly used and that will look great on you. So what if they are used…Just dry clean them. They also sell used music and other items that you waste most of your money on. The new items you spend most of your money on are material items that will set you back. Focus on building your credit and creating your savings.

Read my booklet, “What Do You Think”, and try to answer as many questions as possible written in it.

If possible, build an alliance with individuals who have read this list and are dedicated to the same exact cause as you. If feasible, see if all of you can focus on becoming experts at different trades so that each of you can be beneficial to the other as you get older.

Thank your creator daily.

Feel free to contact me at 1upentertainment@gmx.com

Also check out our FaceBook and Business Site

Posted by Saye Taryor.

Time To Get Off The Plantation

August 29, 2010

By Saye Taryor

I hear some of you talking about being a patriot and how true Americans only support certain political parties or ideology. Many TV host, religious and community leaders organize rallies, in which they tell people to restore America to her essence. I call this propaganda “Ear Candy”. Like “eye candy”, it looks and sounds good on the surface. It gives the average Joe a warm fuzzy feeling. Well, I am going to add some substance to the foolishness in this blog.

How does one define a true American? Are there not true Americans locked up in jail for breaking laws and committing crimes? Have true Americans not lost political elections or cheated on their spouses? Being a “True American” does not hold any claim over morality. Some Americans are good citizens, while others are con artist or cold criminals. There is nothing special about being a “True American”, since all Americans are not good, honest, or caring individuals. There is however something special about good, honest, or a caring individuals, who happen to be an American, or from any other part of the world. Many people have been brainwashed to think that being patriotic, and using terms like “True American" is something special or divine. It’s just another ploy used by politicians and the elite to get ignorant individuals to dislike other groups, and to accept hate and division in society. It also gives the individual the illusion of a sense of purpose and cause. In reality, being a true American has nothing to do with ones morality. It’s just a term of manipulation.

Now let’s look at the leaders who host these large rallies year after year. They will speak on all the things that are bad in society, but after each rally, life goes on and things never seem to change in a positive direction. Well, I am here to tell you that this is no coincidence. It boils down to pinpointing the problem and then having the ability to resolve it. If enough of us do not agree on what the problem is, then there will never be any solution. That is right, some of the people we consider leaders are focusing on issues that have nothing to do with the real core and frontline problems which we experience daily. Many of you will not like what I have to say, but the heart of the problem in America is the system in which we live…That is right, the “money hungry capitalistic system” is the cause of many of the problems. In order to maintain power, the elite have to limit competition, which they do by keeping the masses ignorant, divided, and misinformed. They have to create an illusion of freedom, when in reality, we are really their corporate slaves.

If you make 10 hr working 10 hour shifts daily, why should you not make a profit when the corporation has a successful quarter due to your labor? At the end of the year, if the corporation makes millions in profits, why should you have to continue to earn 10 hr, or have a yearly review in which you only receive a 5 or ten cent raise? That is exploitation of ones labor and pretty much free labor. Your labor creates wealth for the already wealthy, and you do not get to enjoy the wealth that your labor has created…that is complete foolishness and highway robbery. They also determine what “your” labor is worth, and they control if you work or make money as an entrepreneur through monopolies and the banking system. They will send jobs overseas for cheaper labor if you decide to join ranks (unite with other workers) and demand fair paying wages and reasonable work demands. (Strong Unions) And then they (the elite) will find a spokesman to speak against those who are demanding fair treatment, by using terms that describe the opposition as Marxist, or just plain un-American (not a “True American”). This is a divisive way to relate to the ignorant and uneducated, while promoting their cause and agenda of exploitation in disguise of freedom and justice.

Just because you work in masters house, and not on the field on the plantation, does not mean you are not also a slave. Who cares if you picked more cotton then the next individual, the objective is not about picking the most cotton, the objective is to be able to work for fair capital while being able to come together with other workers to create a balanced economic system, while shareing resources on a need basis, respecting the value of ones labor, based on the amount of capital being earned through each individuals effort. In the meantime, we are purposely divided and kept dumb through the education system, the music, news, and other forms of entertainment. We work for slave wages and then we give it all back immediately through bills and expensive goods, only to be stuck in the same cycle from generation to generation. None of our religious and political leaders will address these issues, but they are quick to create a rally of the masses, telling you how great the nation use to be, or how we should be good field workers and pick more cotton if we want to live a better life. If you want to show how much you love the nation, join with those who are aware but helpless, and organize a mass group that is ready to demand fair wages based on individual labor and corporate earnings. Help go after corporate monopolies and banking fraud, which make it hard for entrepreneurs to fairly compete against large corporations. The illusion of freedom is what this is all about. Let’s break out the chain of mental and physical slavery.

Read "What Do You Think" a critical thinking booklet written by Saye Taryor

Posted by saye.

Matt & Saye

May 4, 2010

Matt & Saye

Welcome to our new Matt & Saye Segment. With all the problems of this world, we advocate for more civil debate and less hate. We’ll debate while you decide.

Matt: I believe that if we follow the mantra of less government (and I mean destroying Fed Government that does not work i.e. Dept of Education, IRS, etc.), less taxes or a fair flat tax, less spending on entitlements and other bogus programs that we can have a better America. I am a believer that if America does those things, that in the long run, ALL AMERICANS will have better lives including blacks and Hispanics. The fallacy that many on the left, including you, believe is that all of the ides mentioned above, means that we are taking away from the poor. This is not true. The poor do not pay taxes any way.

Saye: To assume that all Americans would want to live like you, need to live like you, or would enjoy a world of conservative republican policies shows that you are living in a dream world. People have always wanted to separate from what they didn’t like and to try to form a nation based on personal values and principals. Isn't that what your forefathers did? If you have values that you like, you formulate under those values. Anything else would offend you and make you unhappy. Even the forefathers were torn among each other…Federalist hated the politics of Republican-Democrats and vice verse. The Confederacy fought a war against the Union to separate based on a lot of issues.

Matt: Ha. The point you don’t get is that blacks and others would not be unhappy living in that type of society in the long run. When the economy is not handcuffed and people have more money to spend, we all benefit. In your world, the only way blacks and Hispanics can make it is by government intervention and handouts. Again, you could not know any better because there is no facts or history to show you what a super majority in all chambers of Republicans could do. There is a right and wrong in this day and age. Less government is good, less taxes is good...ts only the people that have allowed themselves to be dependent on government that needs to change. They will not change unless elections and new laws force it on them. They may not like it but I bet it would benefit them in the long run. A little tough love wont hurt the dependent state (blacks, whites, etc.)

Saye: Matt, I have no clue what you are talking about.
It is ignorant to assume that your values and way of living is best for everyone in society. All whites do not embrace your values so what makes you think all blacks would be unhappy without it? Just like any other race, Blacks are humans and don't share all the same values and views of living. Some blacks love conservative republican capitalist living and would be happy living in such a society...others African Americans as well as Whites, Hispanics, Asians and many other races would prefer to live in a different society embracing different principals and values. Many Native societies have no desire for American culture and standard's of living. Some people only use resources on a need by need bases. They don't believe in capitalist principals and they love how they live and who they are as individuals. Most Racist feel they are superior and their way of living is superior to the rest. It is hard for them to comprehend when others have different values and beliefs then themselves. Never in this world has one political way of living been beneficial to all and made everyone happy. That is why we have different Nations with different values and different rules and laws, which guide them as a society.

Matt: I am not talking about values; I’m talking about policies. This is not about race. Blacks have been in despair because they continue supporting a failed dependent system. If they would give a conservative approach a chance, they IMO would benefit. What do they have to lose? Nothing. Again, super majority in all chambers, be real on conservative financial principles, and watch and see the economy boom from the handcuffs being taken off blacks…along with all others will benefit. I am sorry but 90% of minorities continue to vote for Liberals and it hasn’t gotten blacks as a whole anywhere. It is time for change…real change with no dependent states.

Saye: Matt, OMG those socialist commies are dangerous to America because they know they have the right to bare arms and protect themselves against police brutality. They are promoting socialist propaganda and organizing successful social programs. We have to stop them and Martin Luther King!!! (Crazy how both King and the Black Panther Party were considered communist and attacked by the government, even though they used different strategies to fight their oppressive state. The danger of socialism is one of the biggest lies in the world. It’s just a matter of opinion and values…plain and simple. The problem is when others force their values and opinions on you, it becomes a problem worth fighting for and the talk gets louder and louder…eventually leading to action, if enough people are willing to act on it. What's good and bad to individuals when it comes to political policies is all in the individual’s values and personal outlook at life. Like I told you before, George Washington took an Army of 10,000 to stop the Whiskey rebellions which were nothing more then small farmers who felt they were being taxed to high by the new American Government created by your forefathers. History has already told this tale before many times. Whiskey Rebellion

Matt: Socialism is a failure and has never been successful...FACT!

Saye: Capitalism is a failure and has never been successful...FACT (but really an opinion just like your claim was) Now What? Remember, ones perception of something may be totally different then another individual (with both realities being true) You read my blog
It goes from debate, then proof of argument, and will eventually lead to personal opinion. It's all based on how one defines successful... Once my definition does not match your definition ...there is no conclusive matter on the issue. So Like I said...It is based on ones values and what one likes. That is why I said the only way to solve such an issue is for individuals to live in a society in which they value the policies and the laws. They will be unhappy living under any other circumstance. In my opinion, I have never seen a true capitalist or socialist society in my life I would however like to live in a society with a good mixture of both, done fairly without corruption and elitist control and manipulation) My views on American Society

Matt: Well, you would be wrong since the US is the greatest economy the world has over the long term. Your opinions on why it is not successful are flawed. Of course, the more government involvement means it’s not a true capitalistic society we live in. If it were, we would ALL prosper. Your crony capitalism blog was weak and should have been intertwined with your gray area blog, because you have to allow capitalism to have freedom, and since we have had a hard time getting a filibuster proof capitalistic congress and President, you are not looking at the meaning of capitalism. What we DO know is there have been many, many socialistic societies that have had filibuster proof leaders to actually instill socialism and every time, it HAS FAILED!

Saye: In your opinion and your tunnel vision reality, I was wrong. What you fail to realize is that I do not measure success and failure based on wealth, money and power alone. I also measure how the money, wealth and power are obtained. I do not praise drug dealers for being rich so why would I praise a system of government which foundation was based on segregation, unjust laws, free slave labor and the genocide of millions of humans. Why would I embrace a wealthy nation that has built it’s wealth from inhumane social monopolies and political policies, imperialism, slavery, American apartheid and many other atrocities that continue to hurt her own citizens as well as millions of people around the world. I understand that many have achieved and prospered in the US so called Capitalist system, and that America has been an economic giant for a long time, but for me to conclude that capitalism is successful based on it’s economic success, is foolish in my opinion, and is based on a limited outlook. My values have taught me that morality is not based on who has the most power and the most money. My values also have allowed me to weed through propaganda vs reality. Why would I praise a document and tell people that it was the greatest document ever written (the US Constitution) when Poor white men, Poor white women, Black women, Black men, Native American women, and Native American men were considered as mere subjects, and for people of color, mere objects and property, in which they could not vote. None of the laws for people of color stood any ground until 1964, after millions of people from all races died fighting for America to change it’s hideous wrongs and racial genocidal actions. Things have improved and I love all the individuals who contributed to change this great nation in which I love, but I will by no means say that American Capitalism is a successful mechanism because America has never demonstrated a true form of Capitalism based on the definitions of capitalism in which I have read. I can’t call something successful if I don’t think it has ever truly existed. You can’t have a true capitalist system if your governmental policies embrace slavery, JIM CROW and flat out discriminatory actions towards people based on race and gender. I’ve told you before, how you define words like success and failure and what your values are, as an individual will shape how you look at the world and how you form opinions on issues.

Matt: One day you will have to get over the past and look at building a future without the excuses of those men old white men who formed our Constitution. I mean there is NOTHING holding you back from being anything you want. Can you say the same thing about other countries? It’s been 45 years since the Civil Rights Act of 1964.... it is time to quit with the excuses and to start HARD WORK!!

Saye: The definition of an excuse is “To apologize for (oneself) for an act that could cause offense:” I wasn’t apologizing for anything so your comment is out of context as to why I mentioned America’s shameful past. I presented a fact that was needed to show a clear picture of the history of perceived capitalism in America because you were under the assumption that America economy was based on some form of capitalist success. I simply explained that one couldn’t claim to run a capitalist system if the system foundation was based on the foundations in which I presented to you. It was perfectly normal to evaluate the foundation of the country’s history in order to determine its foundation in the concept of America’s capitalistic policies, to determine if capitalism existed in it’s true form (based off how many have come to define capitalism).. Not once did I need to apologize for anything during the process because my objective was to respond on rather or not capitalism was successful or not. I also find it very interesting, the very movement you support is called the TEA Party Movement (based on historical actions that took place a long long time ago as you would suggest: Some people say that racist whites are just using excuses to complain about progressive minority success in modern day America, which were all gained through a democratic system. But I am sure they have taken the argument of many of the tea party protestors out of context…just maybe. If you really think government policies didn’t hinder people, why do you support the tea party movement? Why don’t you go and tell your friends who support the tea party movement and that NOTHING is holding them back from being anything they want. Matt, people will always embrace their values and long to live in a society in which their values and concept of a better world are appreciated and put into practice. People will also evaluate the present with the past to determine if where they currently stand measures up with their past. As for hard work…if it were just about hard work, success (or wealth in your world) would have come about a long time ago, since the master, and society demanded working hard in general, to build America’s wealth to begin with. It’s not about who works the hardest, it’s about individuals being rewarded fairly and appropriately for their hard work and for them to be able to share the wealth that comes from the fruits of the labor. Slaves worked hard. There has to be something of substance that comes with working hard. That is why many rich elitist hire people do work hard for them. Working hard is mainly valuable to poor people who work two jobs just to make ends meet.