MEDIA & EVENTS >BOOK REVIEWS

GROWING UP WITH MICHAEL JACKSON
The Times (Trenton NJ)
July 8, 2009

To be perfectly honest, I did not expect to be so moved by the passing of Michael Jackson. Here I am, the same age as Michael and suddenly realizing that we had been traveling together for most of our lives. Of course, he was unaware.

As an 8-year-old boy with a homemade haircut, I would be playing freeze-tag with the neighbors or jacks with my sisters, but still keeping an ear out for someone playing a 45 rpm disc featuring the Jackson Five. Even then, I possessed a tinge of jealousy for that talented family who seemed to have money to spare. 'Twas tough times, back then.

The years continued to pass by and Michael re-invented himself at will. I was still in college when he and Quincy Jones presented the world with, "Off the Wall." Michael Jackson and I were now partners, as I attempted to use his music to convince a young lady to "rock with me." Somehow it didn't really work for me. I guess you needed more than an LP and a black-light poster.

His Greatness used the '80s and '90s to further develop theme-based albums and videos that continued to reset the bar, gathering fans who knew little of Motown's Michael.

My birthday cake now takes two packs of candles and a fire permit, yet Michael still had the same waistline that I seemed to have left in my high school locker. Yeah, still a little jealous, I guess. Despite the years, I continued to appreciate his musical ear and profound showmanship that had no equal.

Amidst all critical musings, Michael Jackson simply must be applauded and appreciated for his extraordinary contribution to the worldwide music experience.

- *W*. *IVAN* *WRIGHT*, Trenton

THE TIMES
The Times (Trenton NJ)
November 7, 2008

America, you must forgive those of color who stood a little taller as President-elect Barack Obama made his historic election night victory speech. You see, it was not simply because of the moment, but for moments gone by.

A few of us might even consider a silent sojourn to the cemetery, to privately converse with family members who have long laid down their respective loads. Kneeling by fading names on humble markers, we might whisper to them that we are thankful for their unheralded sacrifices during the America of their lifetimes. We will let them know that this country has dared to acknowledge that perceptions, albeit deeply embedded, can be slowly extracted. We will nod and even smile as we understand that this perceptual dislodgment was aided by the lubrication of hidden tears and midnight kitchen-table prayers.

Regardless of one's political affiliation, all have stood witness to history reaching forth its long-traveled hand, daring to birth a new horizon.

- *W*. *IVAN* *WRIGHT*, Ewing

USA TODAY
Historic Moment Build on Sacrifices of Others

W. Ivan Wright, author of Black People: For Entertainment Purposes Only - Trenton, N.J.
 I was impressed and touched by the sincerity of Bruce Kluger's Forum piece. "A Long Way From Birmingham". Indeed, America is a mighty long way from 1963 Alabama where the murder of four young girls gave this country a new awakening (The Forum, Aug. 20).

America, you must forgive those of color who stood a little taller as Barack Obama accepted the nomination for president of the United States on Thursday night. You see, it is not simply because of the moment, but for moments gone by.

A few of us could even consider a silent sojourn to the cemetery to converse with family members who long ago laid down their respective loads. Kneeling by fading names on humble markers, we might whisper to them that we are thankful for their unheralded sacrifices during the America of their lifetimes.

We will let them know that this country has dared to acknowledge that perceptions, albeit deeply embedded, can be slowly extracted. We nod and even smile as we understand that this perceptual dislodgement was aided by the lubrication of hidden tears and kitchen-table prayers.

Perhaps the spirits of four little girls will gently rise above the Democratic National Convention podium and witness another of America's awakenings.

THE TIMES
Civilization Endangered
July 15, 2008

Starfleet, year 2050:

''The fleet's research team has identified the point in time when Trenton, New Jersey, veered from its societal promise. Knowledge and education, once a precious jewel of a young, still-growing America, had somehow lost its luster.
''It seems that libraries, wondrous sanctuaries of learning and empowerment, were intentionally placed on the endangered list and many at the helm refused to acknowledge the presence of the distant iceberg.

''Only a few in the community actually understood how young lives were touched as they quietly sat at the wooden tables. Knowledge was not only acquired via books but also as the maturing teens communicated with patrons and concerned staff members. At times, these same library caretakers heaved a private sigh as they observed how some young people had to ensure that their books and notes were well-hidden in their backpacks. Goal-minded teens didn't want anyone on the streets to see them with their contraband - books.

''I wonder: If Trenton could do it all over again, would it choose to bury its uncut gems?"
Starfleet out.

W. IVAN WRIGHT, Ewing The writer is the author of "Indentured Scholars - The Inner-City Scandal

USA TODAY
No Need for Apology Circuit
February 6, 2007

W. Ivan Wright - Ewing, N.J.

Oh, people are so sensitive, some may say. But let's be clear: Sen. Joe Biden did make a statement that was founded in cultural bias. With all honesty, can we say that he would make the same character assessment of a white presidential candidate?

Is Biden a backroom racist? Certainly not. But what he must appreciate is the fact that perception is a most powerful instrument, which is unfortunately tethered to expectations. Political policy design and implementation, for example, is often based upon the policymaker's personal assessment of another's needs.

Good senator, there is no "apology circuit" required. Do, however, increase your awareness that ease of articulation as well as good American citizenship are not African-American "exceptions."

THE TIMES
Trenton High Students Greatly Deserve Praise

At times, sustained applause is the required response when one speaks of a Trenton Central High School student. The members of the TCHS Orchestra and Band, 35 strong, volunteered their time to render holiday performances at Capital Health System and Mill Hill Church of God.

Music Directors Joseph Pucciatti and Ted Plunkett must be commended for their dedication and perseverance in providing musical education as well as a mentoring presence.

Youthful exuberance was the added seasoning to a disciplined performance that wondrously demonstrated the students' instrumental aptitude. Unfortunately, the actions of these students do not demand the requisite negative shock-value exhibitions that command a front page, but we are sorely lacking if we do not continue to recognize the constructive pursuits of our pre-adults.

TCHS students, claim and then vigorously defend your journey to excellence.