Taking Time To ReCoop

Hello All. Been some time since I last visited with you and shared. It has been quite a year for me (and my family) and I've decided to venture north, cross the border to Canada, with my two lovely daughters. This is "our time" that we further bond and enjoy the company of each other and truly grasp, what we are to each other-a family-with love, commitment and faith. The travel starts with us leaving the Tar Heel state of North Carolina (via Northwest Airlines) then landing in Toronto, Ontario. My girls, both of woman-hood status, are both in higher education attending the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. But when we cross the international airwaves, we are all transformed into joyous little ompus and elf's, just being jolly and with glee. I become the young teenager for my oldest daughter (India) who decides to take the motherly stances and keeps me and the younger (Bianca) in line and towing the lines. She gives us our do's and don'ts and makes sure that we are on point with the things that we have to do and eat. I am so submissive and proud at the same time.

Our location is Huntsville, Ontario (2 hours north of Toronto) A cute, lovely little town similar to "The Bridges of Madison County" with a river flowing through the city-town (ala San Antonio) with lovely eateries and shops along the river bank. People there, don't know of my "celebrity status", but have grown to enjoy my visits there each year (21 years now)

The racial lines there are mostly Canadian and French with several Scandinavians. African-Americans are non-existence (except for us) but there are some Jamaicans and Africans, at a percentage of 1%, if that many. But there hasn't been any issues of racial discrimination or prejudice that I have witnessed or experienced, in the many years I have been there.

While my girls each day primp and prime themselves for their daily outings, I, while there at the Olympia Sports Camp, prepare to lecture youth (ages 9-17) in several two hour sessions on athletics and life. I become transformed and filled with a peace that has long escaped me, for the last 10 months or more. This place (which I call Eden North) always renews my strength in life and people. The director (Dave Grace) has been not only a friend, but a father figure and one that has been so important in my life, that words and thanks could never express deary, of what he has meant to me and my family. I can only thank God for his involvement in our lives. I can honestly say- I love this man deeply and dearly and praise the works that he does with youth and the people of Canada.

In my off time, I do things that I don't usually have the time to do like canoeing, fishing and fitness. I have gain a love for canoeing and have become an avid student of the sport. Matter of fact, I began to have dreams of making the next Olympics- yeah, right! (lol) but I also get some reading in with the greatest book and structuring manual (the Bible) while being in this place of serenity. There are days where I sit, along the bank of the lake and read and stare at the beautiful sky and talk with God and hear what he has to say, like if I was talking to one of my boys or friends. Never am I so refreshed and soothed during that time. I feel so fortunate having this outlet and venue to partake in. And my girls, now that they are young women, enjoy the gifts of nature with friends there and just hang out being "girls."

Well, I've shared my experience up in the far north and shared what rejuvenates my spirit. I wish each and every one of you could have such an experience that we share there. With the region simulating parts of the mountainous areas of North Carolina and the lakes being full with fish, turtles and other sorts of animals, reptiles and species I care not to touch. I know that this is a place, that I could spend my last days and know that I would have peace. With the passing of my Mother (Barbara Banks) friend (Glenn Brown) and son (Kyle) within the last year, God has placed His embrace upon me, to still be on focus, with what He has for me to do...to serve, love and be a truly giving human being and I can surly say...without His mercy, love and grace, I would not care to live, but I must, because...I have more to do and more to give, while I am still upon this earthly plane and I must appreciate the love that I have received from Him and all of you, and make my life, a testimony for all to know. "I fall down, but still get up" is a gospel quote that stands true and I must continue to stand tall, even in the face of adversity and trials and further show love from my heart...to each and everyone, no matter what race, creed or color. For I am a child of God ,who makes mistakes and He has forgiven me as I forgive all that make mistakes to me- no matter what the scenario. I love you all very much and know that Jesus is love for He sacrificed His life, so that we could have, ever lasting life, in the Kingdom with the Father.

"For those I haven't been in contact with...please forgive me-I have had a multitude of matters to spiritually deal with."

I want to thank you all for your love, concern and prayers and please continue to send them up, for me and my family, as I will do for you and yours.

My Trip To Israel...Meeting With a Special Man Of God.

I had this in my spirit, to share more of my trip to Israel, that I took a few weeks ago. I didn't get the chance to really share of the wonderful time I spent there. Being invited back to be apart of a fantastic event (Israel Final Four Basketball Championships) I was also invited and took part in a missionary moment traveling to northern Israel (Migdol Lemit-next to Nazareth) and met an extraordinary man and servant of God-Rabbi Rabbi Grossman.


Rabbi Grossman created a community, where he took in 5,000 undesirable young boys and girls-gave them homes and nurtured them in a structural environment. I was astounded of the huge impact that he has made on this community and the country as a whole. He is considered like a male Mother Teresa. The NBA along with the Israeli Federation, asked me to take part in this venture and for me, it was a spiritual renewal and an honor for me. The famous Doc. J (Julius Erving) and Rick Barry, were the chosen ones, representing the NBA Out-Reach program and I, along with Korky Nelson, Dorom Jamcy and several other Israeli basketball icons
were included.

After a 2 hour bus ride from Tel Aviv, along the coast line passing Cesarea and several Palestinian and Jewish settlements, I was taken back of my days when I drove this same coast line, time and time again, while living here and playing, in my time back in 1990 till 1994.
Once we arrived, we were welcomed with a lovely brunch and conference room meeting where the Rabbi finally graced his appearance. The moment he walked into the room, I sense a presences of spiritual royalty and an energy like I haven't felt in some time. After a brief introduction of the community and sharing tales of Rabbi's beginnings, I was soothed feeling I was blessed, to be in this atmosphere and experiencing this.


I cannot express how truly filled I was to be also in the presences of Dr. J. and Rick Barry, both of whom I have admired and played against (only Doc.) and being apart of history. I had never seen a side of Doc. J's humility where he shared a touching side of his upbringing and trials as a lad in his growth. Rick brought along his family and it showed how wonderful a man he is and what sense of family and love for them that he held strongly. I must also add, the food was FANTASTIC!


After a few visits to the surrounding community, we were honored with hearing the young kids choir and welcomed to a Bar Mitzfah of a young lad of the director of the mission. They sang like Heavenly angels and I was taken with tears.

The final stage was a basketball clinic given by us to the community and it was truly a wonder and fulfilling. This is what I truly enjoy and love doing- touching lives of youth and what better place, than at this community and in the Holy Land. Even the Rabbi took a shot or two and was impressive in his debut of round ball skills. The 500 plus boys and girls were very receptive to our teaching basketball and lectures on sports and life and getting involved and being able to touch these kids and feel their hearts...was so enlightening. I will never forget this-Ever!

In conclusion, I a intimate moment with the Rabbi and he sense in me some unease and trials. I was taken back of his insight and words of wisdom as well as prayer, into my state of affairs. If felt like he knew of my dilemma and struggles. His words to me, which I will never forget were...

"Geno, I feel in you, a special presences of the Lord God within your heart is your biggest asset to showing God's love to people of all creeds, races and colors. Continue on, and know that He is with you and will carry you through." These words made me feel so special and love and gave me the needed strength, to further give my God (and Savior) my dedication, my worship and my love to Him, that has given me everything ...along with His son, Jesus Christ.

ISRAELI BASKETBALL...A Special Honor.

This past week, I was surprised and truly filled, with being named to the Israeli Basketball Federation list of one of the greatest foreign players, in their historic league. It was the 60th anniversary of that country and what a wonderful festive time.

This was the week of the Israeli Basketball "Final Four" and it's professional league championship. The four teams were: Beni-HaSharon, Nehriayha, Hapoel Holon and the favorite-Maccabe-Tel Aviv. MACCABE- Tel Aviv is and always has been, the favorite of the most the people in Israel. Being that they have won several European championship (which is compared to our Super Bowl, March Maddness, NBA Championships) under the leadership of Ralph Kline. The people of Israel take great pride in supporting their national representatives and hero's of Maccabe-Tel Aviv. This team (deemed like the Yankees, Duke, etc) has the economic and financial support of many corportaions and municipalities in that country and has the biggest budget in the league. The contracts (some in the millions) that they give out are three times more than any of the other teams in the league. It is always a surprise when another team in the league, has a win or beats them, during the regular season and playoffs, especially the championship.

With a gala that rivaled the Academy Awards and Emmies ceremonies, this "Final Four" gala was rich in history, entertainment and Who's-Who, at this venture. I was so thankful and appreciative that I was included and honored, at such an event. This was also the time that the league gave out awards and trophies, such as league MVP, Coach-of-the-year award and many others. It also took the time to honor those that contributed to the league through it's history on and off the hardwood. NOW...I am apart of their history and I give God all the glory in that. It was His doing and grace, that allowed me such an experience.

They honored me with a lovely award, special recognition and a framed portrait of myself of recieving the award, which I will have to lug through the airport in my travels back to the U.S. It didn't matter, for I am beaming ever so happily and proud.

I also took this time to reconnect with friends and get in touch with my spiritual needs being there in the Holy Land. What a wonderful place, even with the threat of terrorism and unrest.

I can only say, you have to be there to really feel and know of how things really are and how safe it is, compared to what we see on the HD television sets. The food, the culture, the spirit, all that was fulfilling and needed for me.

As I set back for home, back in the states, to my lovely abode in the south (Greensboro, NC) I will hold a special place in my heart and soul for this place where our Lord and savior walked, talked and preached. I have a renewed strength coming back and going away. I will continue my service to my God, family, community, my christian brothers (and sisters) church and those that re less fortunate. I know that is what God wants me to do and my commitment is more stronger.

Oh...by the way, the team Hapoel Holon, upseted the favorite Maccabe-Tel Aviv with a .3 second half court shot at the buzzer, to win the championship. The first time since 1993, that another team in the league, won the championship besides Maccabe-Tel Aviv.

Vote 2008- Hillary or Obama?

Now is the time to really show, what those that sacrificed their lives for. It is time for all of us to vote and vote strong. For the last 8 years, the nation has been turned, spun and mutilated beyound belief and the Republicans aren't taking any balme in this action. President Bush has done some things (and not done) that has cause even other nations, to hate us and distrust us. I am not a Republican, but I do not brag on my Democractic allegiance. The Democrats too, have displayed mannerisms that are unbecoming to the best interest of the nation. Now is the chance to really have our voices heard (so to speak) It is the battle between Hillary and Obama. Two worthy opponents, both running for the representation of the party of Democrats, to be the next president of the United States and unseat the Republican Klan. I am not against Republicans, for I like seeing blacks in the Republican party, so that they can make changes in the thinking of Republicans about blacks in America and what we have given to our country. I am an American, first and foremost. I am not from Africa, though my roots are from the cradle of civilization. I care not to live in Africa, for I was born here in America and this is the country I have grown to live and love. I do have my roots based on my african heritage and accept that truly.

Now, the case, I liked that Hillary chose to run for President, for it is time for a woman to have her hand at being a leader of this country. Who says that a woman can't run this country? Men have been running this country and political system for as long as it has existed. So why not?

Being that her husband Bill, who was our President and did some truly remarkable things during his Presidency, it would seem like a given, to have Hillary be the next choice-right? Wrong! Hillary has show a side (several sides) of her that are questionable and Republicanish. I would love to see a woman run this country...just not Hillary, of what I am experiencing and seeing.

The latest attacks and mishaps, have made me turn a displeasing turn against her and pushed my feelings that Obama, is the choice, for this country, to turn things around. It won't be easy, for there is so much mess already in progress and it will take a miracle, to fix all the damage. But I feel that Obama has the spirit to bring this country together and mend the fences domestically and abroad.

Like JFK, He (Obama) is the right choice for a change in policies and direction. What better example of the American dream, of a man/woman that has both cultures in his being (white mother and Black father) His elegence and manner, has given ease to those that would feel threatened, by persons such as Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, who both speak too militant, for White Americans, in this time and age. Does Hillary have more foreign policy experience than Obama? How? Because she went on trips with her husband Bill?

The latest incident of misrepresentation of her trip to Bosnia, when she said that she was under sniper fire on a trip after she landed. The actual footage of her trip, showed nothing of the sort. Then to turn around and use it in her speeches and then tell the nation, that it was a blunder and explain it in a way that we are suppose to accept it as a "honest miscue" shows that, Hillary will go to any lengths, to have an advantage to getting that nomination. "By Any Means Necessary" seems to be her motto and the attacks against Obama from her and her campaign, have been truly displeasing and discomforting. Remember, those that voted for Bill aren't getting Bill, they are getting Hillary. Yes, I know that "pillow talk" is a powerful substance, but not in this case. The polls have shown that Obama is a need that has long been anticipated and long for. We called Bill, our first Black President, Wow... and then we say (some blacks) that Obama isn't black enough. How our minds been twisted and turned and divided. Just because Hillary and Bill have an office in Harlem, doesn't mean that they are "true black folk." Does Bill (or Hillary) have to chase down a cab that drives by them, because they are black-No! Do they get anxiety when they hear a police car siren and worry that they might get pulled over, because of racial profiling? This campaign is really showing a divided portion of our people, in ways unbecoming to our achievements. And what are our loyalties? To vote because someone isBlack? or that they can lead the country in the right direction? I, like others, feel that it is Obama.

No, I am not voting for Obama because he is Black. But because I like his demeaner, style and mission. I am impressed by his oraltor skills and message. I am also impressed, how the nation (White America) has embraced his message and attitude. So, it is clear, that I am not the only one, that belives in a change that is needed. Bush has truly manipulized his power and manner, while in the White House and it is sad to see the nation, in the state that it is in. So, get out and vote. I am not telling you to vote for Obama, I am just saying, don't feed into the rhetoric of voting for Hillary, just because she was Bill's spouse, while in the White House. She is not Bill and Obama isn't like anyone else. He is the choice, to ease the nation.

Forgiveness...

When one needs forgiveness, there is only one way to get that forgiveness. First, one must, admit their fault, wrong or Sin. Then, that person must have that spiritual base and go straight to the Father in prayer, sincerely, and ask for the forgiveness he/she seeks. We might not think that He forgives us, but the Lord has said that He would and He ALWAYS...keeps His promise and Word. I have been so blessed to have His forgiveness many times over. And He said He would forgive us, if that plea is from the heart and sincere. God knows our heart deeply and truly and He wants us not to bear pain or hurt, no more than we can bear. In this time of my life, I have been tested beyound question and belief. With the lost of love ones, by death and by other means. My spirit is spent and shattled. I am at the end of my rope of faith, but I do believe that His Will, will be done, for the best of my (our) interest. So, I ask you, for your forgiveness, if I have done anything to have caused you hurt, pain or harm.I have already ask the Father for His undying love and mercy and grace, to forgive all that I have done or any Sins that I have committed.

If we truly believe in Him and His words, we will not lose faith in knowing, that His power is ever so strong and true. With today's society illustrating the "Last Days" and people changing their manner of love to hate, it is more evident, that we call upon His name and ask for His love, grace and forgiveness. I need Him now, as I have always needed Him and I have called upon Him, to soothe that which is in my spirit.

I want so much to be the Lord's warrior and stand for rightiousness and I am so fortunate that I have someone, that loves and knows me. Do you know Him? Do you pray to Him? Do you praise Him? Do you go to the Lord and ask for forgiveness, for the things that you have done or the Sins that you have committed? Take it from me, He hears and knows your thoughts, it just takes YOU...to make that decision, to talk and pray to Him and recieve your forgiveness ...and Blessings.

I love you all, as He would want me to love each and everyone.

God bless you and may your heart be happy and your spirit filled...with His love.

Shalom

Who Do You Trust? Obama ? Hillary? None Of The Above?

Now the time is upon us, to make a decision of who, our next leader will be. We had two terms of George W. and I must say, a great deal has happened to this country, in reverse, to the motto and dreams of being a humanitarian nation. It is clear, that the Bushes won't be in power, in the White House, but be sure to know, they have made more than enough influence around the globe, to continue the power that they have especially with the Saudi Arabia government (oil)

But enough said...The question here is Who? Obama? Hillary? These are the choices of the Democratic Party (well, John Edwards somewhat) The question arose being that I am African-American, and the African-American vote is a strong one. First, let me say, I am a registered Democrat. Why? Well, years of having growing up in a Democratic Party household and having the belief that this party, is more in tuned to the social needs of minorities. The Republican Party has been portrayed as the party, that is less in tune and less caring to minorities and many of their agendas, have shown so. I am not against the Republican Party, for we all have a right to choose and I am delighted in seeing African-Americans in that party, to have representation and make change or add, to it's agendas and issues.

Ok...let's see- Obama. He seems like a wonderful choice, being articulate, bright, handsome, well to do, etc, etc, etc. Wait a minute! I am sounding like a conservative white who sees any black act in the manner that he has shown (non-militant, non-aggressive, un-like Jesse) He has taken some hits from the the mighty Clinton's in ways that are puzzling voters and Democratic supporters. What better choice to have of an American that has both bloodlines in his body (black and white) What better experience than to have a person, that has gone through the trials of coming up and believing in a well-rounded America? And oh..I almost forgot, he even went back to Africa to touch base with his roots as well. Hmmmmm..interesting huh? He isn't feared by the majority of this country, because he seems to say the right things. What I do like about Obama is that he is being tested and continues to rise up against attacks and criticism, and by whom...Hillary! Wow! a Democratic sister, so to speak.

Now, Hillary. We all pulled for Hillary, when "Brother Bill" (considered the first Black President) surcome to temptation of the infamous Monica Lewinsky and the stain dress. We saw her "stand by her man" and not take one step backwards, knowing that this was not the first time "Wild Bill" had some extra-curriculum activity. Her poise nature and head high manner, gave us a view of a strong woman, in the mist of turmoil. Her aggressive attack on getting Health Care for all, was a gallant effort, but why didn't it fly? Her husband WAS the president? Ok...my thinking was to lean toward Hillary in such, that she was the choice, that would be best, in winning the presidency over the other parties candidate. Her being a woman,didn't matter to me, for men have been running this country since, and they have made a mess of things over the centuries and - why not a woman president? As long as she can make change, deliver on promises and get the economy and country strong, I could care less if it were alien ( I don't mean illegal) She basically had my vote (with the help of being Bill's other half) But NOW! with the attacks on Obama and the clashes that they are having, which is bringing out a great deal of Hillary's (and Bill's) past dealings such as "Whitewater", "Board of Wal-Mart" and several other situations that she has not fessed up to, under her leadership or authority.



So why the sudden attacks on Obama from Hill? Well, if you don't know politics, you will know one thing...whatever it takes to win and no matter who you attack to get that victory, means more than integrity and fair play. Even if it is own momma or friend. Even Bill, has come out of the box and make some discouraging comments against Obama and he has the NERVE to talk?!


Ok...I will say that I am voting Democratic due to the Republican agenda still doesn't address the issues of social matters in our country such as education in urban and rural areas, black teens being jailed wrongfully, The Hurricane Katrina matter,Health Care for the underprivileged and I can go on, and on, and on. Tell me who, in the Republican Party is worthy of my vote? Giuliani? Romney? Reagan? Oh...he's gone, I' sorry. I will vote for anyone, no matter what the party, if he or she, can unite this country and look to seeing that this country gets what it needs FIRST...and work toward the outside later. The deficit is back to being the highest ever, a recessions is right around the corner, still no Health Care for everyone, looked upon other nations now with hate and disapproval, companies moving out of the country and overseas displacing people form rural areas, out of jobs and basically homeless. Now, we have an illegal immigration problem.

If I had to vote today, I would vote for Obama, only due to the fact that he is trying to bring forth the issues of our country and not the rhetoric, that all the other candidates are spewing. Hillary lost me with the attacks, I was never impressed with Romney or Giuliani (who are the front-runners) Oh..I forgot about McCain..hmmmm..he seems to be running strong, but does he really believe what he is saying? Need to listen more on his issues. No, I wouldn't vote for Obama because he is black, but because he seems the most likely, to get this country united and move forward in ways that no other has been able to. Bill, started it (getting the country back somewhat) no we need someone, to take the torch and and lead us, in these trying days. Maybe Hillary can convince me otherwise, but right now, I am displeased in her actions of criticism and attacks. Who will you vote for?! Listen close and hard, to the issues and then YOU decide!

Remember, many blacks died, for us to have the right to vote. Even an uneducated black man, with no shoes, who was stopped at the door and threatened and then given a test. This is the one right that we have, that was fought for, that we can use as power, that was sacrificed, by our forefathers. Amen

Gene Banks- Taking Time To Grieve and Relect.

Banks resigns as Smith basketball coach
By Jeff CarltonStaff Writer
Friday, Jan. 11, 2008 3:00 am
Credit: H. Scott Hoffmann/News & Record
Gene Banks
GREENSBORO -- A few days after Smith jettisoned its football coach, the Eagles lost the first-year coach of their struggling boys basketball team.
Gene Banks met Wednesday with athletics director Charlie Barnes and principal Noah Rogers and told them he was resigning as basketball coach, less than five months after he accepted the job.
The Eagles were 1-12 after dropping their Metro 4-A Conference opener Tuesday against Northwest Guilford. Barnes said Thursday that Banks was not asked to resign after those early struggles.
"It was pretty much his decision to do that," Barnes said. "He could have stayed as long as he wanted to."
Brian Jones, Smith's junior varsity coach, is now directing the varsity on an interim basis. His first game in that role is tonight against Page.
Barnes and Rogers began their search for a football coach after they asked Jon Oakley to step down late last week, less than two years into his tenure. Oakley was 0-11 in 2007, his first full year on the job. Oakley, a former Page and Northwest assistant coach, took over midway through the Eagles' one-victory season in 2006.
Smith has not had a winning football season since the late Tony McKee departed in 2004 to take a coaching position in Georgia.
"With that school, you need time," Oakley said. "That's the challenge. Sometimes you think you've got it, and you don't have it."
Several attempts to reach Banks by phone the past two days were unsuccessful. He spoke after the 46-42 loss to Northwest about his difficulties adjusting to the high school game -- dealing with parents and the immaturity of teenage players, for example.
Banks was an All-America high school player in Philadelphia and was similarly honored during his playing career at Duke in 1977-81. He had coached semipro teams overseas as well as two college women's teams -- Division II Bluefield State and D-III Bennett -- before taking the Smith job last summer.
Barnes said Banks cited the recent deaths of his mother and a close friend as primary reasons for stepping aside.
Just as in football, Smith has had trouble establishing coaching continuity in boys basketball. Reggie Peace had success in two stints with the Eagles, but he returned to Lee County to be closer to his wife's place of work last June, ending his second tour after two seasons.