Surge in Gun Murders Involving Young Black Males

“From 2002 to 2007, the number of homicides involving black male juveniles as victims rose by 31%, and as perpetrators by 43%.” He went on to that this “was consistently true for every region of the country.”
http://www.jfox.neu.edu/Documents/Fox%20Swatt%20Homicide%20Report%20Dec%2029%202008.pdf

While the author of the study suggests more police and more programs, it seems to me young Black males would benefit from learning more tangible skills; learning to work the land, build homes and general carpentry. When your accomplishment is something of physical substance, something you can eat, live in, use or sell; you gain a unique confidence, a confidence that can only be achieved through self determination and success. Personally, I don’t find the idea of more police and young black male interaction favorable nor do I think the typical after school programs work.

In no way am I saying we should abandon educating ourselves but this in combination with a traditional education would decrease idle  time and provide a combination that could help rebuild our communities, lucrative careers, self confidence and stronger future generations.

Of course we come to the issue of implementation and getting young and at risk Black males in a position to learn these skills. That is where you readers come in. What are your suggestions?

Historic Black Schools Restored as Landmarks.

Many institutions and landmarks vital to the African American narrative are dead, or dying , we must mobilize to stop it.
Great New York Times article on preserving South Carolina’s school where Black educated other Blacks.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/15/us/15schools.html

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Until 1923, the only school in the largely black farm settlement of Pine Grove was the one hand-built by parents, a drafty wooden structure in the churchyard. Anyone who could read and write could serve as teacher. With no desks and paper scarce, teachers used painted wood for a blackboard, and an open fireplace provided flashes of warmth to the lucky students who sat close.

Macaroni and Cheese

Mac & Cheese

I have noticed the rise of many nouveau Soul Food recipes. While I support anything that keeps the traditional food ways of African Americans alive I tire of these  newfangled; 10 cheese, sour cream, and breadcrumb  laden recipes I come across so much these days.

Here is a recipe in which I feel embodies the spirit of the traditional dish the way it was made by our grand parents.

First,  boil 2 cups of macaroni pasta in lightly salted water

While the pasta is boiling, make a cheese sauce. Melt butter (2 tbs) in a sauce pan over low heat, whisk in flour (2tbs), then stir in heavy cream(1 cup) and milk (1/4 cup)(or evaporated milk). Stir non stop until it is thick. Take off heat, add your choice between creole seasonings, paprika and salt and pepper (to taste), add 1 1/2 cups of grated or chopped up sharp white cheddar cheese( I like traditional English). Stir until cheese well mixed.

Next, Cube 1 pound of sharp yellow cheddar cheese ( I like American cheddar here) and mix it, the cheese sauce  and the cooked and cooled down macaroni( 1-2 cups) to together in a bowl. Pour into a baking dish and sprinkle Pecorino Romano cheese(if you must modernize) on top and bake for an half hour.