Needed for youth writers: Used laptop, camera

I talked to Chicago writer Richard Muhammad this morning and he is excited about the work of the half-dozen young people he is mentoring in the Youth Speak South Shore media literacy program (see post below). They're working across a range of media from TV and radio to print and the web. He's already impressed with the talent and enthusiasm of the students – "and we're just getting started," he says.

Okay, here's the pitch. Richard says some of the participants don't have day-to-day access to computers and that there's a lot of interest in photography and video -- but no equipment to feed that interest.

So if you've recently upgraded from your old laptop or digital or video camera, and would be willing to donate it (rather than have it become obsolete sitting in your closet), Richard could immediately put it into the hands of a young person interested in communications and media. Related software would be a plus. If you want a tax-deduction letter, Richard can probably arrange it through his fiscal agent, Metropolitan Area Group to Ignite Civilization.

Got something? Know someone who does? Drop Richard a line at straightwords4@yahoo.com

Salaam Saturday: Promoting Peace in South Shore

Salaam Saturday 2008, an event planned and sponsored by Richard Muhammad and the South Shore Youth and Community Project, was kicked off June 7 at Parkside Community Academy's playground. Salaam Saturday is devoted to community building by offering a day of peace with music, food, face painting and fun for youth, adults and families while claiming the playground as a public space for healthy interaction. This is the second year Salaam Saturday has been in existence.

The monthly play days are a proactive approach to creating unity and promoting peace. The next Salaam Saturday is tentatively scheduled for July 12 at Parkside's playground, located at 71st St. and East End Ave., just 2 1/2 blocks east of Stony Island Avenue.

Sensei James Muhammad and other representatives of the United Schools of Survival led youth in martial arts exercises and Def was our deejay.

A big thanks went out to Volunteers Demetrice Willis, and teenagers Tianna Barnett and Tiara Barnett; Final Call assistant editor Ashahed Muhammad and his family for helping out; Abdul Bah, who gave out some lessons in soccer; Robyn Washington, who sent a donation from Baltimore, Md.; the Chicago-based Black United Fund’s David Robinson, who dropped off a donation for the day, Washington Park resident Jameszetta James and J. Michael Carr, of Fathers for the Future, and his family who stopped by to lend some hands as volunteers.

To see beautiful photos by Final Call photographer Kenneth Muhammad, visit http://straightwords.typepad.com/photos/salaam_saturday_08/index.html

For more information, to join us or provide support, contact Richard Muhammad at 773-616-5058, or e-mail straightwords@sbcglobal.net.