Saturday, October 31, 2009

Help Us...Help You

It is our desire to make this blog site a useful tool. Please answer the following questions so that we can better serve you.

1. Are you 50 plus years of age?
2. What is your age?
3. Are you male or female?
4. Are you working or retired?
5. Do you have a life long passion you'd like to pursue as a business venture?
6. If you have a dream, what is it?
7. How long has this been a dream of yours?
8. Have you attempted to bring it into fruition before?
9. What has been your greatest obstacle in helping you manifest your vision?
10. Would you be interested in joining an environment focused on helping you to achieve your business goals?
11. What kind of information would you like to see on this site?
12. Was any of the published information beneficial to you? If so, what and how?
13. What is your state and zip code?
14. Do special advice or personal stories relative to our agenda you'd like to share?
Email: Patriciabbold@gmail.com

Monday, October 5, 2009

The Glory of God

The glory of God is great. He is real and can be found. Silently and surely as you walk on the path of life, you must come to the realization that God is the only object...the only goal that will satisfy you; for in God lies the answer to every desire of your heart. Paramahansa Yogananda

Sunday, September 27, 2009

First, Let's get Healthy

Hello fellow boomertarians,

Guess what! I just completed my version of power walking--which is 40 minutes of walking at a faster pace than I normally walk. It did strike a cord inside. I broke into a slight sweat and my thighs began to tingle a bit. And I did appear to have increased energy. I motivated myself to take this walk for a number of reasons--the primary being for my own health. Pushing 60 years of age, I'm noticing changes in my body. My knees ache, my energy level is down and I'm two sizes larger than I was a few years ago. Unless I want to travel the road of sickness and disease of my own creation, I must commit to making healthy changes in my life style now. And perhaps just as important, because I am renewing my vow to finish the work God has placed on my heart, I need ENERGY. I am still working full time. My most creative hours have been exhausted. My belief, however, remains strong. The belief that each of us was endowed with a Godly passion, one that was designed to prosper both ourselves and humanity. And it is only when we walk in the nature of our true passion that we experience the joy of fulfillment. I believe this, just as the Bible teaches, with every fiber of my being. My soul's desire is to teach this message to the multitudes. The flame is not as robust as it was in the past, but it's still flickering...and I am determined to resurrect it in new light. So it is with you. Half of your life is over, and yet you maintain this burning yearning thing inside of you. And while it's good you've made the bold decision to go for it again...you must come to the reality that for most of us, time has re sculptured our bodies...and before we can get serious about the possibility of resurrecting buried dreams, we must first focus on our health. Begin now developing a health plan that will magnify your life. If it's a challenge for you to do it alone, find another like minded person or persons to be accountable to. This leads me to my final reason for beginning and continuing a walk routine. And that is I want to be accountable to you. It would be hypocritical of me to try and convince you to take a healthier stand in pursuing your goals, if I am not doing the same. So I am committing to a daily routine of walking, and each time I sign in to bring you a written word, I will update you on my progress. Why don't you do the same. Share your story. We would love to be encouraged by you. Email: Patricabbold@gmail.com.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Links

http://www.crossoverministries.net/
http://www.zazzle.com/urfulloflife/
http://www.heroesoflife.org/
http://giovanna@imperfectaction.com/
http://www.workforce50.com
http://babyboomers.com
http://seniorjobbank.org

What is a Boomertarian?

A boomertarian is anyone 50 years of age, or older. Until I recently googled the word, I thought it exclusively belonged to me, as I created it as a means of bridging the baby boomer population with what I call 'baby bloomer' those on their way to becoming baby boomers, as well as senior citizens. Or blog site 'boomertariansinflight' represents those boomertarians who are boldly transforming their passion, talents and abilities into unique business venture. You will read about some of these individuals in our feature story segment. Our blog site also serves to encourage boomertarians all over to resuscitate their own dream and muster the courage to finally 'go for it!' We will help. Beyond motivation, inspiration and information, future plans are to create an arena allowing like minded boomertarians to come together and share their dreams, ideas and support on each other. And bigger plans are to create a variety of formats that would unite perspective business owners with consumers, as well as business leaders--all designed to help you succeed. And lastly, (until more hot ideas come along) for all those boomertarians who have no desire to to seek business ventures, but who wish to work in a field in which they are passionate, employment opportunities will be sought. Encouraging others to live their God given purpose is my passion and highlighting those who do is an honor to me. To view our most recent honoree, click on the link 'feature boomertarian' to read about our star selection.

copyright 2009 Patricia D. "Satorie" Barnes

Friday, March 27, 2009

Lotto Hope

Lately, I've noticed that the 50 plus generation is exuberating a lotto hope. Recently, while patronizing my neighborhood convenience store, I observed an older gentleman feverishly searching his pocket for change. Having gathered enough, he triumphantly placed his findings on the counter and instructed the cashier to 'give me one lotto ticket.' There were others to follow, including myself. And as we each stood there selecting our scratcher or having our numbers scanned, I began to wonder 'is this our (baby boomers) only hope for the future--lotto hope?" What about the dreams and visions we once had? What about the skills we have mastered through a half century of experiences? What about our passions? Are they dead? Has all hope in ourselves depleted? Sure, our hope is temporarily lifted when we purchase a lotto ticket--but more often than not, it is dashed once the scratching of the ticket is done, or the numbers are called. Can't we put hope in ourselves once again? Can't we reflect back on that deeply buried dream and begin thinking about it's possibility? Why not? I say it has more of a chance in producing fruit than an inanimate lotto ticket. Begin your resurrecting thoughts today. Write that thing down--and begin thinking about how it might happen. Stay with our blog site to get ideas on how this time you can fulfill your destiny.

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Three Step Guide to Manifying Purpose

When choosing a group you'd like to join, often times, it is one in which you closely identify. One that has the same values or belief system. So it is when I joined Crossover Ministries Church in Los Angeles, Reverend Ralph Bassard, Pastor. His spiritual core belief is the same as mine--each of us was created with divine passion and a purpose to fulfill. And until you begin to live in the true essence of your being, ever lasting joy escapes you. My sentiments exactly. And because share this undying belief, our message is often the same. Such as the one he recently ministered on living by faith and encouraging one to go for the gold inside of them. He focused on three points and so inspired I was that I decided to share them with you--and then put my own spin on them as it relates to us boomertarians.

1. Learn to be unreasonable: Often times, at our age, we chose to make only what we deem as reasonable decisions. Deep inside of us, we still harbor the same dream that we did in early years. Now we tell ourselves, "I'm too old...I should have done this when I was younger." And so rationalize ourselves into pain, misery and mediocrity. But I'm in agreement with Pastor Ralph, learn to be unreasonable. Reenergize your dream, then put on your armour of faith and begin to walk the line toward the thing you truly desire.

2. Be open to a new way: Now this is the one that may tend to stagnate you. The world appears to be moving so fast with new technologies becoming old the instant they are introduced. The dream you had years ago may be the same but how you manifest and grow it could be different. Look at who's doing something similar to what it is you envision and how they are doing it. Then learn to do it--adding your own unique ideas. It would be wise to make an appointment with a SCORE counselor, specializing in your area of interest, to learn all the latest techniques.

3. Ask for help: This is a big one. We are often too intimidated to ask for help, or we simply don't know who to ask. This is the time to become still, to go within and seek guidance. Once you become very clear about what it is that you want--help will come. You must learn to ask. For now, your job is to prepare so when the help comes, you will be ready.

For more on Crossover Ministries go to http://www.blogger.com/www.crossoverministries,net

Sunday, March 15, 2009

What Happens to a Dream Deferred?

A Dream Deferred
by Langston Hughes

What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore...and run? Does it stink like rotten meat? Or crust and sugar over...like syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags like a heavy load. Or does it explode?

To answer the famed poet's question, I think a dream deferred would explode. It can explode inwardly, outwardly or both. Let's take a second to talk about each category.

Inwardly - Do you remember the feeling you had when you were just itching to tell someone something. You could hardly contain yourself, could you? You felt you had to get it out, or you would explode. The inner workings of a dream aching for a shaking is quite similar. It's eager to get out...to express itself...to see how far it can go. But for some reason, we suppress it, not allowing it to fully take root. Still, it's there, festering. And soon, it can explode...perhaps in a subtle kind of way. Many see their dream coming alive in their children, and often times, push them to become something they weren't meant to be. There are those parents who blame the fact that they had children as a motive for not realizing there dream. Whatever the excuse, dreams unrealized can lead to an unfulfilled life, harboring feelings of shame, bitterness and resentment--which we all know is not good for the psyche.

Outwardly - I've often heard people who commit horrendous crimes, even murder, proclaim "I felt like superman, or God. "And I want to shout "It is because you have the super natural power of God inside of you." It was ordained in each of us at birth. And if one has not yet learned to channel it in a positive direction, or more importantly, our true purpose--it could explode violently.

Exploding (both within and without): It all begins within and it is the thoughts and actions that determines the with out.

What is a dream deferred? What is happening to you?


Monday, February 16, 2009

Think about this...

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." Anais Nin

Saturday, February 14, 2009

4 Tips On Improving Your Credit Score

Flash the news reads on all the headlines that the Credit Crunch is here and you don’t know what to do. Credit card interest rates skyrocket, homes are being foreclosed and interest rates seem to flatten. The Stock Market is tanking and you have lost allot, but now is the time to be smarter, to work harder, and gain information that you once were too busy to worry about. My name is Angela S. Bessard and I am the CEO of Conquer Credit. I love helping my customers win in their credit decisions that will eventually impact their financial choices and investments. Today I want to give you some tips to help you keep your fico score high, your options many and your mind clear with the knowledge of the credit industry.

Here are my 4 Secrets to your Credit Today:

Manage your credit to prevent costly errors and to minimize identity theft. It is important that you set up an account with an online company that you can have access to whenever you would like to check your credit score or just review your history. I recommend, http://www.creditreport.com/ The reason this is a recommendation is so that you are always prepared for a purchase, can monitor any errors that may occur and the obvious protection against ID theft.

Lacking revolving credit history (your credit cards only) can cost you on an average of 20-80 points relating to your fico score number or average score. The national average is to have at least 2 -3 credit cards. If you don’t have any credit cards, it is hard for banks and financial institutions to see what kind of history you have created, and better yet how you have leveraged your cash position when it comes to borrowing. If you are lacking “revolving credit history”, please obtain a minimum of two secured cards and use the 80/20 method of payment for at least six months straight. For more information on revolving and secured credit cards logon to http://www.bankrate.com/

Correct errors and derogatory accounts. A negative credit history can keep you paying high interest rates on everything. The financial industry is looking for an average score of 700 or better now a day. If you have a credit score under 680 it is time for you to look into some resources to help you increase your score and get rid of any negative factors and accounts. You can repair your credit history yourself if you are not willing to make a financial investment, I would recommend going to http://www.creditdoctor.com/ to purchase a do it yourself kit. Please note that repairing your credit is not easy and with some cases will require professional help. For more information on our firm visit http://www.conquercredit.com/

Medical bills and collections – collections can cause your fico score to plummet. If you are ever sent a bill in the mail by a collection agency and you do not agree with the bill you must do the following:

Send the collection agency a certified return receipt letter, indicating that you do not recognize what the bill is concerning and you would like proof that you in fact owe the bill. You must indicate in the letter that you are sending this letter to them to make sure that they do not report anything to your credit report. Once and if they prove that this bill is indeed valid you will agree to make payments.

Never dispute and not pay an outstanding collection. If you do the interest can cost sometimes 3 times what the original debt was and not to mention your fico score will be compromised. Principle should always be thrown out the door in these type of situations.

So there we have it my friends. Until next time remember your credit is an investment tool to build wealth, Happy New Year!

Angela Setters Bessard

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Free/Small Fee Business Startup Resources

There are many FREE or small fee resources that can help you in starting or expanding your new venture. Here, I list a few:

SCORE - Free business mentoring, one-on-one consultation, community/online workshops, and much more. For more information contact web site http://www.score.org/

Chamber of Commerce - Contact your local Chamber of Commerce for business related issues: legislation, business start up resources, networking opportunities, membership and more.

Business Incubators - Business incubators are designed to help launch a new business or expand an existing one. They provide support services and offer classes in such basic fundamentals as niche marketing, financial planning, developing your mission statement and creating a business plan. For more information contact web site http://www.nbia.org/

Community Centers - Community centers often provide free business start up workshops. Contact your local center for any possible workshops in your area.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Boomertarians: Scripture Reading

2 Corinthians 4: 16

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. King James.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Need Clarity Identifying your true life's work?

Before the national best seller THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE...


There was SERVING GOD...ON PURPOSE

Fulfilling God's Will in Your Work

by Minister Patricia D. " Satorie" Barnes


This powerful, spiritually led 24 page booklet will help you to:




  • Clarify your true life's work


  • Identify your obstacles and how to overcome them


  • Identify paralyzing emotions and how you can begin the healing process

"After reading Patricia's book, I was inspired to take a spiritual inventory of my life. In order to hear God's voice, one needs to be still and listen. I decided it was time for me to listen earnestly to my spirit and hear exactly what it was God wanted me to do. I received confirmation that I was on the right path--and was motivated to put more energy in that area. "Serving God...On Purpose" is a great reminder that life is a journey and every journey, no matter how great or how small, has a purpose. If you've ever wondered what that purpose is for your life, this is the book for you." Jacqueline Blaylock

Cost: $5.00

Add to cart


Purchase for a friend










Saturday, January 31, 2009

Who are you listening to?

Are you listening to yourself? Well, maybe you shouldn't. That's if you're telling yourself your too old, too set in your ways or too financially strapped. Colonel Sanders was 65 when he introduced the masses to his world famous Kentucky fried chicken. Lily Ledbetter, now retired, was a devoted employee of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company when she discovered she was paid less because of her gender... became a household name after President Barack Obama signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act into Law guaranteeing equal pay for equal work without fear any kind of discrimination. Chris Gardner, a single father and the inspiration behind the movie, "In the Pursuit of Happyness" starring acclaimed actor Will Smith, rose from homelessness to become a self made millionaire and the founder/C.E.O of Gardner Rich and Company, a stock broker firm located in Chicago.

Are you listening to other people? Stop! Unless they are offering you encouragement, support and motivation.

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Drop That Heavy Load

Drop that heavy load. That load that you've been carrying around inside of you for years. The one drenched in fear, guilt and shame. All because of an action you took years ago that is continuing to hold you captive--even in this moment. It's time to bring it to a head. It's time to deal with it in a manner that sets your conscience free. It could be a confession, or perhaps an apology or an acknowledgement, the time has come for you to forgive yourself.

In the fifty plus years that you've survived here on this earth, it stands to reason that perhaps you've made choices that you now regret--and that possibly caused you or someone else a great deal of pain. A choice that perhaps you would not have made in today's state of mind. But you made it--and yesterday is gone forever. You've got to let it go! You've got to pull the cord that's plugging up your creative flow. You've got to be free. Free to bring into expression the person you were born to be. You once thought you had a life time. But now more than half your life is gone. Wake up! Every day, Spirit is calling you closer to home. When you arrive, assure yourself that you will be greeted in the form of your true design. Begin etching your pattern now. Drop that heavy load!

copyright (c) Patricia D. Barnes, 2009

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Lessons from Obama

1. Dream a dream bigger than yourself. Step outside of your comfort zone. Go for the thing that's really inside of you.
2. Believe in yourself. Believe that you can have it when all others say it's impossible.
3. Act boldly. Go inside of yourself and pull from your inner strength. Act with integrity.
4. Keep your eye on your vision. No matter how others may try and demean, intimidate or unjustly condemn you, do not get distracted. Keep your eye on the prize. Don't allow anyone to make you feel unworthy.
5. Be persistent, consistent and take methodical action.
6. Don't be a know it all. Surround yourself with good, solid and talented people.
7. Be a good listener.
8. Know that everyone is inclusive. Every life is important. Everyone has a story and could possibly have something to offer.
9. In the eye of a storm, keep a calm, cool head; but know when it's time to roar.
10. Let your life be an inspiration.

What lesson did you learn from Obama or what was reaffirmed or magnified in your life? Email below.

5 Things You Can Do Right Now to Jump Start your Business Idea

Now that you've claimed exactly what it is you want to do; and decided to go for it, here are five things you can begin doing right now to move your vision forward regardless of your situation.
1. Work on improving your health: For most of us, the older we get, the more sedentary we become. We also note that the pounds have inched on, our vision is diminished and our joints (especially the knees) ache a bit more. Embarking upon a new venture means new energy. We must work on improving our health with proper exercise and healthier eating habits. Let's seek out foods that stimulate our minds and bodies.
2. Begin NOW learning everything you need to know about the venture you are about to undertake. Do research. The Internet is a gold mind of information. Maybe even, find a mentor.
3. Learn new technology. The way you envisioned doing things 20 years ago may not work for the 21st century. You can begin now to learn the new technology, especially as it relates to marketing.
4. Seek out as many entrepreneurial workshops as possible. Many are offered in your community for free. Also, check with your chamber of commerce for information.
5. Whatever you're planning on doing will take some money. Why not begin a savings plan in the name of whatever it is you're planning. Deposit something each pay period--even if it's $10.00. And you can begin improving your credit score by paying bills on time.
AND don't forget your grand children. Let's not get so caught up in what we're doing that we neglect our loved ones. Include them in your personal planning.

Copyright 2009 Patricia D. "Satorie" Barnes

Monday, January 19, 2009

What Can You Do Now to Begin your Idea Closer to Fruition?

With 4.5 million (and counting) of people out of work nationwide, one is more inclined to feel they are simply blessed to have a job. It may not matter that they don't like their job; or that it's no longer fulfilling to them--they've resigned to stay--relishing in the thought "well, at least I have a job." It's good to be grateful, and I agree. It is always better to have a job than looking for one. After all, your rent is being paid, family needs are met and you like the privilege of eating. So yes, be grateful for your work. Still, there is a dream inside of you that simply won't die. A dream of bringing this thing you love to do so much to life--and actually make it your livelihood. Now, in the midst of what is perceived to be a faltering economy, now could be a good time to act on it. Look at the attitude of a 71 year old lady who lost her life's savings in the 50 billion dollar Madoff ponzi scheme. Working and saving all of her life, she thought she would be enjoying a wholesome retirement by now. Instead, she's finding it necessary to reinvent herself. In a recent televised interview on MSNBC's American Greed and Scandals, she tells the reporter that she has no income, with exception of Social Security. She goes on to explain that she has to find other ways to earn a living. Paraphrasing, and speaking very confidently, she says " At my age, I can't take a job from anyone. I can't stand too long...so I can't work as a Cashier...but what I can do is make jewelry, in particularly watch bands." And the camera focused on her in the back ground diligently at work making her watch bands. I thought "I'll bet this is what she's always been passionate about." What will it take for you to act on your passion? Do you, too, have to lose everything before you muster enough hunger to take action? I say, act NOW! Ask yourself "What is the first step I should take in bringing my dream to reality?" Meditate on the answer. Then boldly take the step.
an object in motion tends to stay in motion
copy right Patrica D. "Satorie" Barnes, 2009

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Who is Patricia D. "Satorie" Barnes?

Often times, you hear this question being asked by many well directed ministers, "If you had only one day to live, how would you spend it?" The question is designed to get one to focus on what is really important in his/her life. I answered this question myself, and it didn't take a lot of time to wonder about it. I would spend the last hours of my life in deep penetrating hugs with my family. I would let them know how much they mean to me...and how much I love, honor and appreciate them. I would encourage them to continue growing, seeking and believing in God and the good. I would leave a special message for my first born grandson, Devon, whom I have not seen for more than 13 years. I would let him, and the four sisters and brothers he had at the time of his birth know that my memory nor love for them never faded. I would want to spend a little time with special friends, just to let them know how much I appreciate them being a part of my life. And as the hours continued to drift away, I would spend more time in meditation and in preparation to deliver my final message...my undying belief and that is we are here for God. We were created by God, for God to express His goodness, His grace and His love. And we are to express it in service to one another. As we have been taught in both the spiritual world as well as the secular, each of us has been endowed with a passion. Entwined in that passion is our purpose...our reason for being. It is when we are living, giving and serving from this innate passion that the best of us is released...and in this moment, we are experiencing the fullness of God. Who is Patricia D. "Satorie" Barnes? I am one whose entire being is deeply rooted in the belief that we were created for a purpose, and if we want to experience the fullness of life...we must begin to live life from that purpose. Even as a child, the question of purpose was always a part of my belief system. As a child, I thought only people in the professions of helping people such as teachers, doctors and nurses were purposely created by God. Evil people, people causing harm to others, I felt could not have possibly been created by God. I felt their parents were simply having fun and they arrived by accident. As I grew older, because of life's experiences, my faith in God became non existent and my thoughts on purpose vanished. It was not until the early 90's, after attending Della Reese's church "Understanding Principles," that I began to understand the workings of God and the power of His existence inside of me. The idea of Purpose began to resurface, I began to study, teach and live it. In 1994, I was ordained in the Metaphysical Ministry under the tutelage of Dr. Paul Leon Masters, founder of the University of Metaphysics with 50 years of teaching experience. It was also during this time that I began to feel a spiritual name change; and Satori, (I added the 'e') a martial arts term meaning 'to be here now' ingratiated my spirit. It was important that I remained in the presence because of the pain I was enduring after the mother of my first born grand son ripped him from my life. In 1998, I wrote my first book entitled "Serving God on Purpose," a booklet devoted to helping one discover his/her divine passion/purpose and then embracing it as their life's work. I've delivered many sermons on the topic of purpose, and wrote articles, hosted public access show and published a newsletter called "Abundance Within." During these later years, I have been employed as a Case Manager, dedicated to the cause of housing homeless families. But the desire to teach purpose in its full glory has never really diminished. The Bible tells us in Acts 2:17 that our young people will see visions and our old will dream dreams. These are the dreams that have been lurking in our hearts, mind and spirit perhaps for decades and they are still speaking to us. And I would, perhaps not in my final, but certainly in finest hour urge you to listen.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Feature Boomertarian

As promised, we are bringing you a special feature on those boomertarians who are living life to the fullest. Our first tribute goes to Shane Coleman, founder of Heroes of Life, a non profit organization whose purpose is to teach at risk youth and young adults ages 8 to 28 all the facets of the entertainment and broadcast arena... including audio/video, music and graphic arts. Founded in 1989, the program is based in Pacoima California. It also collaborates with a For Profit organization known as "Our World," whose creating economical shifts by employing top students from Heroes of Life and engaging them in work such as stage management, sound enforcement and camera work for concerts, festivals and video/film production. Shane is married to his soul mate, Paula Coleman, who is not only a staunch supporter of his work; but is key in helping him bring the vision into fruition. Together they have ten children, 14 grandchildren and one great grand child. Shane, in all his wisdom, loves giving others the spotlight but today, in this defining moment, we salute him. Click on Spotlight: Shane Coleman

copyright Patricia D. "Satorie" Barnes, 2009

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Spotlight: Shane Coleman







It was in his 6th grade class in a South Philadelphia school that Shane Coleman received divine revelation of what he wanted to do when he became an adult. He wanted to help people. In the 9th grade, he says his vision became more focused. He wanted to help change the world through people and the arts. And that vision brought him to Los Angeles, and the founding of Heroes of Life, a non profit organization that embraces the talents of at risk youth and young adults between the ages of 8 to 28. "There are many talented young people who have dreams of working in the entertainment industy...but because they are in a poverty situation, they don't have the money or even a place to get training or operate equipment. They can receive this at Heroes of Life... that's if they are determined to succeed and can abide by our rules of love, respect and absolutely no negativity or profanity. " Shane admits that often times, it's difficult to convince a young person that it's possible to produce hip hop without cussing. "I tell them that if they've got a problem with life or society, they have to come up with a solution in a positive way by the end of the song." In the end, he says, they are surprised that they can deliver a strong message without the use of profanity. It is this spirit of love, respect and determination that has amassed Shane a large number of successful graduates now working in the field of broadcast, from radio, television to record companies, the training they received in song writing, script writing, video/audio production, camera work, stage performance and other techniques have prompted many to testify "I got my start with Shane." And while many of his students did choose to make a career in the film/broadcast industry, some have elected to go to college, become entrepreneurs or simply join the work force, the love, discipline and focus received at Heroes of Life have made a lasting impact. Some students, Shane says, faltered along the way; but he says when he sees them on the streets even if they are gang members, there is always lots of love, hugs and respect when they meet. "They know that even even if they are suspended from this program, with a change in attitude and after a time period they can return." Presently, he working with different gang sets who have learned the truth about gang life and are coming back into the community to share their experiences and to write positive hip hop... using it as a vehicle to produce change. In December, 2008, Shane and his crew produced a scarry movie entitled "Did You See That?" and is presently working on two others, Breaking the Cycle" and "The Bobby Cohen Story." Rooted deeply in the community, Heroes of Life is also producing a 20 minute DVD featuring community children who have had trouble with the law, their parents, physchologist and other experts to be utilized by community networks to produce intervention techniques. When commenting on the question of whether or not he has any particular challenges in working with the music of today as compared to yesteryears, Shane declares "Absolutely not!" Music, he says, is a universal language...transcending from generation to generation. He shares that they recently completed a Christmas album featuring Jeannette Hawes, formerly of the Emotions and Marcus Paulk, best known for his role as the little brother on the TV sitcom "Moesha." "In Heroes of Life, the old school heads and the youngsters often come together to learn from each other." And where does he see his program in five years? Shane shares that he would like to see Heroes of Life on a national scale...bridging young people from different states and countries working together. He reveals that presently, he and other group members are planning a concert tour in 2009 whereby named talent will lend there skills to community based projects to help create economic shifts; and as a means of helping the have nots to have. He concludes by telling us "This is what I love to do, it's what I've dreamed of doing and now I'm doing it!" Shane Coleman is a Boomertarian in Flight.

copyright Patricia D. "Satorie" Barnes, 2009