David Banks’ Back to School Message

David Banks of Eagle Academy

“The purpose of education is to be informed so that you can then in fact turn around and impact.” – David Banks

David Banks at Eagle Academy's Bronx Campus
David Banks speaks with a senior while visiting Eagle Academy’s Bronx Campus.

Responses to a recent reading challenge presented by entertainer, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson to boxer Floyd “Money” Mayweather, whether accurate in its assessment of the boxer’s ability to read or not, reveals the extent to which many have allowed ourselves to place greater value on monetary success and fame than intellectual curiosity and reading comprehension. To that extent, studies show that in national tests more than 67 percent of all US fourth graders scored “below proficient,” meaning they are not reading at grade level. * (Source: Students First) But do we send children to school to get good jobs, or to master their intellectual curiosity in ways that will shape the world in greater ways; or is it a combination of both?  Most of all, how can we ensure the best outcomes?

Creating the next generation of informed innovators and agents of change is no small proposition. This month CEO and Founder of Eagle Academy, David Banks -who has advised Hillary Clinton and Cory Booker on scholastic issues – provides insight on the things men and fathers can do to ensure the best results as it relates to their children’s education and future.

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO:

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Dear Nicki Minaj: An Open Letter From A Father

Dear Nicki Minaj: An Open Letter From A Father

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July 25, 2014 9:00 am By , ,
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Dear Nicki Minaj,

I own AllHipHop.com.

AllHipHop has been historically uber supportive of the rapper Nicki Minaj. That’s YOU, homie! When I say historically, we can take it all the way back to when you had to stand in line to get into parties or those grimy underground videos you once pumped out on the streets. You know, that period of time before Lil Wayne and Young Money. Along the way, something changed. This isn’t the change everybody wants to talk about though. No hate there. AllHipHop had published an old image for some reason or another some years ago. You remember the one of you licking a lollipop and evoking the now-classic image of Lil Kim in all of her crotchiness? Of course you remember your version of that image, because you asked us to take it down, through a member of the team. The team member let us know that Nicki is no longer on that and is doing a lot to promote a new image – “blah blah blah.”

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But, guess what? Not only do I run AllHipHop, I’m a father too.

For moment there, I felt like I had briefly peered into the deepest recesses of Nicki Minaj’s true inner self, a being that cares how this ratchet s**t affects my kid. I said to myself, “Self, how cool is this? Nicki is already evolving into somebody that my daughter may get to listen to on my watch. Maybe.” I’ve been in the music game a minute now so I know how it goes. So, when I peeped the artwork for your latest single, I wasn’t even shocked. I was just disappointed. The song: “Anaconda.” The art: your booty in a thong. As a man, I can appreciate the virtues of your perfect posterior. The dad guy is not a happy camper, particularly now that is lil’ girl is transitioning into a young lady.

Now, the most popular, current Black female rapper starts overtly pushing her hyper-sexualized image again?

Just my luck.

I’m trying to raise a young girl that will eventually grow into something greater than the both of us. I know that this requires great parenting, great education, great luck and an assortment of great influences. If sure you know the influence you wield but now. If you told the “Barbs” to scratch my eyes out, some would attack without thinking about it. I’m sure some will also replicate the “Anaconda” image without thinking about it too. Your original image already has 256,817  (and counting) likes under the original Instagram picture you posted so I venture that your average girl could strive to get a couple hundred likes from her friends. Is this the path you want to lead impressionable kids down?

Make no mistake about it, you are a leader now.

I love the era of Hip-Hop where I found my influences. They were all over the place, ranging from Chuck D and Public Enemy to LL Cool J to KRS-One and Boogie Down Productions and others like De La Soul. Even the so-called gangster rappers had something to offer. Ice Cube, Scarface and Willie D of the Geto Boys, and Ice-T all get nods for being influential in my upbringing. I don’t know all of those that impacted you as a young woman, but how dope would it be if you transcended what people expected of you? Like, how cool would it be for your transformation to extend beyond NOT wearing blonde wigs and crazing clothing?

This year alone, Black people lost titans in Maya Angelou and Ruby Dee. Those women were entertainers as well and the impact they have had on the lives of their constituency and never be understated. They SERVED the people and they knew that, without that mutual love and respect, we both cease to exist. Ruby and Maya didn’t live perfect lives, but their imperfections made their greatness all the more clear. Imagine you being regarded in such a way? The way Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah and MC Lyte have been for their communities? I know, times have changed, but one thing is for sure: careers can come and go. Legacy stays.

I can’t lie. My kid barely knows who you are and if she does, its rooted in “American Idol” or something like that. (She does like your bars on “Shanell’s song “Cupid’s Got A Gun.”) I’ve sheltered her on purpose though, all the while letting her read about heroic females in music and culture. As she gets older, it will be harder for me to limit her exposure to you, especially if you continue to do headline-grabbing moves like the “Anaconda” cover. I don’t want to EVER see her posted up one day emulating you the way I “fought the power” like I was Chuck D’s little brother back in 1989. Or, the way you emulated Kim.

For a moment, forget my daughter and lets talk about you. My interactions and observations tell me you are this sweet, kind person at heart. When you get a quiet moment answer the following questions.

How is Onika Tanya Maraj doing?

How does she truly feel about Nick Minaj right now?

What is your higher purpose with young girls (and boys)?

What is the message you are sending when you determine how you will inspire these young people?

How will boys, already conditioned to sexualize girls at a young age, internalize this big booty of yours?

Where does the gimmick end and you begin?

Believe it or not, I care. I think you are dope. You’ve bodied some of my favorite artists on songs like “Monster.” Yet the possibly of you transcending this gnaws at me, because I know you don’t have to succumb to bottom feeding.

When the request was made to remove that image from my site, I complied. I complied – not because I had to – but because I truly respected you for taking that position. On the lecture circuit, I’ve even defended you from those that feel you are a detriment to the community, down to the Barbie imagery. (I have no love for Barbie, you know. Read that here.) I’ve done this based on what I think is a glimpse of what you really desire , which is to be a more positive role model of some sort for young girls who are under siege out in these streets. Now, you take this squatting position on the cover of a song called “Anaconda,” which I am sure radio will play until its played out. I’ll be on Spotify though and so will my daughter when she’s with me.

All in all, this is a letter born from love. A love of my kid, a love of Hip-Hop and a love for the potential that lives in one Onika Tanya Maraj aka Nicki Minaj.

One,

Chuck Creekmur

P.S. You think you could follow me on Twitter again?

– See more at: http://mommynoire.com/115128/dear-nicki-minaj-open-letter-father/#sthash.2ALkNr8Z.dpuf

A Creative Take on Doing Your Daughter’s Hair

father does daughter's hair

It’s been said that necessity is the mother of invention. Likewise here’s a look at a father who has devised a creative way to place his daughter’s hair in a bun. So as you begin your Saturday, and if a more skillful person is not around, why not be creative. In the end you’ll never know how it will turn out, and provided that you don’t harm a hair on your baby’s head….it’s the thought, effort and experience that truly count.


CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO:

STREAM FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD HERE:

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD – Trailer from The Kobie Chronicles. on Vimeo.

 

Actor, Terry Crews On The Importance Of Fatherhood

Terry Crews

Terry Crews was recently on “The View” and shared his opinion on how every child needs a father. I don’t think there was anything wrong with his comment and he’s right. It’s just that as a society, we’ve gotten comfortable in letting children be raised in single parent homes or by their grandparents; when a child really needs their mother and father. Both provide unique perspectives, expertise and value in nurturing, discipline, guidance, teaching and creating a better tomorrow.

 

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO:

STREAM FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD HERE:

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD – Trailer from The Kobie Chronicles. on Vimeo.

 

Happy Father’s Day

Happy Father's Day
Happy Father's Day

The Kobie Chronicles would like to wish all men and fathers who are raising and providing examples of quality manhood to children, young adults and one another, a very Happy Father’s Day.

We invited fathers to participate in our Fatherhood Photo Contest a few weeks ago. Today is the day we celebrate the winners of this contest and countless others. The winners of our #tofatherhood photo contest are….

Because here’s the point: to the extent that men become better fathers, children will do better in schools that aim to serve them; children will feel better about themselves and will be better prepared for productive lives; fewer children will become entangled in the criminal justice system, meaning that fewer of our people will go to jail; more children grow up to create healthier unions; we stabilize the economics and safety of all neighborhoods, and lastly, we increase the talent pool for American industry.

Responsible men and fathers play an invaluable role in advancing and shaping their children, communities and humanity. 

– See more at: https://tofatherhood.com/#sthash.cO7cDrhb.dpu                                              

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Many thanks to all who participated, along with Walker Wear and I Am Dad for acknowledging the invaluable role men and responsible fathers play in advancing and shaping their children, communities and humanity.

Tell Us

 

 

Stream From Fatherless to Fatherhood here:

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD – Trailer from The Kobie Chronicles. on Vimeo.

 

Happy Father’s Day 2014

Happy Father's Day 2014
Happy Father's Day 2014

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TRAILER:

Stream From Fatherless to Fatherhood here:

PRESS PLAY

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD from The Kobie Chronicles. on Vimeo.

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD for streaming at the low price of $3.99.

Once a year the world stops to celebrate fathers who are making the difference in their children’s lives, and the lives of their community. Whether you’re a father; are missing your father; are about to become a father; or want to be a better father – or maybe you know someone who is – we’d like to offer you FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD for streaming at the low price of $3.99.

Sit back, relax, and share this film with those you love, including anyone you feel is missing from the lives of those who will need them the most.

 

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FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD is a documentary film that explores the causes, effects and possible solutions to father absence in African-American communities. Additionally, the film provides examples of men who are fostering quality relationships with their children, families and therefore, their communities. The film is rooted in the real lives of men, women and children and buttressed by the perspectives of Multi Grammy-Award winning Gospel Recording Artist, Kirk Franklin, Dr. Steve Perry (CNN’s Eduction Contributor), Reverend DeForest B. Soaries (CNN’s Black in America: Almighty Debt) and Jeff Robinson (MBK Entertainment).

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PRODUCER/DIRECTOR: Kobie Brown

WRITERS: Kobie Brown, Njeri Brown

CINEMATOGRAPHER: Shawn Peters

EDITORS: Darnell Taylor, Joe Saito

FEATURING: Kirk Franklin, Dr. Steve Perry, Rev. DeForest B. Soaries, DaShaun “Jiwe” Morris, Jeff Robinson, and others

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Our Children, and Even Other Fathers, Watch What We Do

My name is Matt, and I am the father of three boys and a girl.

Education is important to me for my children because life is about maneuvering and navigating through paths that exist, as well as creating those that don’t. Those who educate themselves and gain education from others have the ability to successfully navigate the paths that exist and create ones that don’t.  The more you learn and master, the more possibilities you open up for yourself.

School limits us to a miniscule amount of what there is to know. In order to be educated one really must explore, read and watch various media forms, as well as get insight from elders in our communities who have wisdom from their own life experiences to share.

Following the riots I intend to mostly continue on the path I’ve been on. I’ve been an avid supporter of community organizations doing work in Baltimore. I’ve also been pulling fathers and families together in various ways for over a decade. I do plan to work with a few good brothers on a non-profit organization that serves children whose fathers are not in their lives, and fathers who are not in their children’s lives, although I planned to do that before the riots.

Doing these things will ensure that I continually do what I can to give people in Baltimore –both youth and adults– opportunities and resources needed to overcome obstacles that they face in life, and that they have positive male figures to help guide them along the way.

The Fatherhood Collective is my organization. Others doing great work in Baltimore include Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, Save A Dope Boy, Shelly’s Helping Hands, Dream Girls Mentoring and the 300 Men Movement, just to name a few. As it relates to Baltimore and other parts of the world, fathers can improve the trajectory of their children and society by being living examples. Be that which you want others to emulate. Our children, and even other fathers, watch what we do.

 

Usher’s “Good Kisser” Producer Pop Wansel & His Father

Usher Good Kisser producer Pop Wansel
Usher Good Kisser producer Pop Wansel

We met up with “Pop” Wansel  and his father,  Dexter Wansel in Philadelphia on a beautiful Spring day. “Pop” worked on tracks before being joined by his father.  This father and son represent two generations of hit makers. Their names and talents are synonymous with hits by Patti Labelle “If Only You Knew” (1983) and Usher “Good Kisser” (2014).

“Pop” has been busy lately, crafting songs for Usher, Alicia Keys, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Kanye West and most recently, Mary J. Blige, as part of the forthcoming Think Like A Man Too Soundtrack. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, as his father was an equally creative force during the halcyon days of Philadelphia International and Black Music.

Usher Good Kisser Producer Pop Wansel
“Pop” Wansel & His Father, Dexter Wansel

Talent, family history & values are amongst the things a father bequeaths his children. During our visit the duo explained their relationship with music; how the elder Wansel taught his son how to craft songs as opposed to merely making beats; and most importantly, creating the type of childhood for “Pop” that enables him to now, “love my child with all my heart.”

 

 

Watch the video here:

Stream From Fatherless to Fatherhood here:

FROM FATHERLESS TO FATHERHOOD – Trailer from The Kobie Chronicles. on Vimeo.

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