Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversation

           

         From classic vintage pieces by Elsa Schiaparelli, to modern-day chic couture brought to you by Miuccia Prada, The Metropolitan (Met) Museum of Art was no ordinary museum but an expedition into the world of two fashion icons.

         The words Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversation were written in white letters plastered on a black wall, in the entrance of the Met's Spring 2012 Costume Institute exhibition.  Inspired by Miguel Covarrubias’s painting for Vogue Magazine in the 1930’s, Impossible Interview: Stalin Versus Schiaparelli, hung on the left side of the exhibit.

Greeted by a large video of Schiaparelli, played by Australian actress, Judy Davis and Prada, as herself sitting at a table discussing their perspectives of fashion. These designers are both from Italy, also referred to as the fashion capitol. However, these two Italian designers were born in different eras, whose sense of fashion inspired people from all over the world.

         There are seven themed displays of Schiaparelli and Prada’s designs paired right next to each other’s throughout the exhibit. “The contrast of these two designers makes it interesting,” said Deborah Audu, an American Express employee who anxiously waited two weeks to witness their innovative work.  The Met is the temporary home for 100 designs and 40 accessories (hats, shoes and Jewelry) by both fashion icons, Schiaparelli in the early 1920’s and Prada in the late 1950’s. 

         About a hundred people filled the tightly, intimate, dark rooms of the exhibition, but that was no comparison to last year’s fashion showcase of Alexander McQueen. The number of people was triple times that of Schiaparelli’s and Prada’s per hour, with lines wrapped around the entire museum from top to bottom.

         Although, the museum is a simple donation fee, Vogue Magazine helped funded this year’s costume institute exhibition, along with Amazon and Condé Nast.  “Every year the Met Museum of Art hosts a party of the year to kick off the spring’s fashion exhibit.” “Literally it’s one of the best parties of year in New York because so many celebrities and top fashion designers come out and only the supervisors are allowed to work the event,” said Met’s souvenir shop employee, Helale.

         The title, Impossible Conversation has many meanings maybe because it depicts two different fashion icons views on the true fashion sense of fashion or just literally the “Impossible Conversation” between the late Schiaparelli and Prada.

 This concept leaves the viewers with the decision to explore through the evolution of fashion until the August 19, 2012 when the exhibit ends.  

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

        

Friday June 29: Oh how I love Fridays!

            The bright sun peaked through my window, as I woke up to stretch and prepare for a brand new day. It felt get to know it was Friday, which is also my favorite day of the week.  I didn’t have to arrive at my internship till 11:30 a.m. so I decided to run a personal errand that I desperately needed; get my eyebrows threaded.

            I walked outside, making my way down St Nicholas Terrace and was surprised to see the City Tower Shuttle Bus. I’ve been in NY for about 3 weeks and never took advantage of the shuttle because somehow I always seem to miss it. The driver yelled sarcastically, “Hey why are you walking to the train?”  “You know you can take the shuttle right?”

            I smiled and jokingly laughed, “Well you’re never here when I need you.” I hoped on the shuttle that took me to 125^th St. Train station, also right next to the five-dollar threading place.  After I painlessly got my brows down, I made my way down the corner near the station.  Timing was excellent, I made sure I was on the correct train, and I looked and felt good; I knew today would be positive day.

            Fridays at NBC are more relaxed, so I didn’t have any extreme task to do. I enter 75 Rockefeller Center, checked the board for any NY Live guest, and began to organize an interview sheet for Ms. Reid.  There were only 2 live guests, which were the judges from TLC new show Craft Wars.  Researching was not extensive because Ms. Reid and her co-host were going to do mini- craft war challenge.  Around 2:50 p.m. Ms. Reid, her co-hosts, and the NY Live production are getting ready to start the show. Normally, I watch the show on set, but went to the control room with executive producer Terri Martin. The control room had so many televisions, computers, and buttons. Also, there were three other producers in the room who help control the flow of the segments of NY Live. Watching the show from an executive producer’s perspective is very stressful because everything is on timed schedule.  The adrenalin in the room from Ms. Martin yelling and moving form one side to another made my experience exciting.  I definitely wouldn’t mind visiting the control room again to learn how to operate it. Friday was a different day, but I enjoyed every bit of it.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Thursday June 28: Meeting Micheal Jack

“You want to play the odds, if the odds are in your favor you will be successful.” That’s how President and General Manager of NBC New York, Michael Jack described surviving in the mass media industry.

            The Reid Group and I were able to get an inside look on the hiring process for NBC Universal Studios.  As Mr. Jack smoothly strolled through the doors of the conference room, I begin to get anxious as I kept thinking about what question I wanted to ask. But with his charming personality, he greeted us and the tension in the room was released. He handed us manila folders, to crease in half and use as name plates.  Mr. Jack was the first guest speaker to curiously want to know and call us by our names. This created a very intimate setting. He gave us a very brief bio about his life because he wanted to make sure that his time was valuable to us by asking questions.

            “We can choose a topic and talk or we can talk about my life or we can answer all questions,” Mr. Jack said. Everyone had insightful questions prepared, because we all understood that meeting Mr. Jack was a once in lifetime experience, unless you’re sitting in his office for an interview.

             I started off the discussion by asking the first question, “When hiring for a news anchor or reporter, what certain qualities do you look for?” Instead of answering my question directly, Mr. Jack went around the room and asked us what we thought. Some people mentioned, loyalty, confidence, and skills while Mr. Jack nodded in agreement.  He stressed the importance of writing, referring to it as the core of everything. Writing is a skill that is needed in the mass media industry and being fresh with your writing is essential.  He also mentioned how he receives 10 different news reels a week and it only takes 10-15 seconds to determine if he/she is a good on air talent.  I reflected back on last Saturday, and thought about my live shot performance and my first 10 seconds were horrible. I knew that I had a lot of improving to do.

            Having a conversation with Mr. Jack was motivation to help me work harder and progress in mastering the needed skills to be the best.

            “Think like and act like you’re at your next job,” said, Mr. Jack.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

           

           

           

WednesdayJune 27: On My Way!

            There was a loud buzzing sound that came from my alarm, as I snoozed three times to officially wake up.  The words on my alarm read “Wake up and do blog,” around 5:35 a.m.; today was going to be a long day.

            I immediately checked my phone for any text messages or missed calls from Ms. Reid and opened up my computer to read important emails. My body was awake but my mind was discombobulated, without a doubt I was extremely tired.  Everyday my duty is to gather information for JacqueReid.com, check the format and accuracy while emailing everything before 6:00 a.m. There are times where I’ll go into panic mode because something may be missing or the links are incorrect and I have to constantly contact whoever is in charge of the website to send me the information by the deadline.

            Yesterday, things didn’t go quite planned as I made my way to the subway around 10:40 a.m., leaving me 20 minutes to arrive to NBC Universal Studios by 11:00 a.m.  I ran down a flight a stairs, swiped my subway pass, just to see my train depart.  I looked down at my phone and the time was now 10:45 a.m. It takes about 5 minutes to get to my destination riding the D Train, commonly known as the express train. I hear an announcement from the speaker, saying, “The next downtown train to Brooklyn is now arriving,” without looking at the letter on the train; I immediately hopped as I was determined to make it to NBC on time. 

            Before I sat down, I checked my phone one more time and it was now 10:55 a.m. My nerves began to get really bad, so I stared at the window at every stop just make sure the train was heading the right direction, until I realized that we passed 50^th street, which was my stop.  My first instinct was to panic, but I knew that would distract me from getting to NBC on time. I instantaneously jumped out off my seat to prepare to get off the next stop at 42^nd street, having no clue where I was going.  Sweat dripped from my face as I changed my speed from a stride to a light jog. I had 8 more blocks left to get to NBC and time was certainly not my friend. As bad as I felt like calling Ms. Reid to let her know my situation, I just sucked it up and ran the rest of the way like a maniac in a dress.  I finally arrived inside of NBC just to check my phone at 11:01 a.m. and a text message from Ms. Reid that read, “I’m on my way!”

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Tuesday Jun 26: Clem Richardson

            The book Arabian Nights wasn’t just a childhood favorite for Clem Richardson but sparked a passion for writing that turned into 30-year career in journalism.

            Richardson got his big break in the journalism industry while working as reporter at Anderson Independent Mail, The Miami Herald and Assistant City Editor for New York Newday. Things weren’t always “peaches and cream” for him, especially in Atlanta, Georgia where he also worked for the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Richardson described his experience starting out in the business tough, saying, “Journalism is not everyone and if you are worried about starting out with a big salary, this isn’t the job for you. You have to be passion about writing.” Sacrifices were made, Richardson didn’t start off with a fancy car but old-school Toyota Corolla, that got him where needed to go to find a story. There was no 6 figured salary, but having a hunger for being the best journalist was enough motivation to keep him fed. That same drive that Richardson had, was revealed to him as child when he vowed to his grandmother that he would grow up to be writer with his infatuation for reading.

             Constantly moving from one job to another is common for anyone who has career in journalism. From South Carolina, Atlanta, Miami, and now New York, Richardson’s career took him to many places where he had to quickly get adjusted and prepare to get the job done. “The city will reveal itself,” Richardson said. So moving around the world was not big deal for him, as he mentioned that reporting a story required extensive traveling from place to place.  As a journalist your instincts for becoming familiar with a new setting will come naturally.

            Richardson currently works as a columnist for The New York Daily News. The luxury of his career now, is that he decides what stories to write and the deadline is little longer. Meeting the deadline is very important and beginning a profession in journalism will call for a deadline in a couple hours after receiving the pitch for a story. The environment can be stressful; Richardson described a situation where he was writing a story with his supervisor over his shoulders, impatiently waiting and yelling for him to finish the story.

            With years of experience in journalism, Richardson recently gave back to the community by volunteering his time to speak with a new internship program, called the Reid Group. He poured out so much wisdom about the do’s and don’ts of being a successful journalist.  He stressed the importance of a good lead, which can make or break any story. The lead is what pulls the reader in while convincing them that this is an interesting story. The Reid Group practiced their writing skills, asked questions, and received one on one criticism from Richardson. “You write what you see and let your senses tell the story,” Richardson, said.

            For Richardson, journalism will always have special place in his heart, as he continues to write stories that illuminates the readers mind.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

           

           

Monday June 25: Working as Ms. Reid’s Assistant

Remember the film The Devils Wears Prada, where an inexperienced young woman comes to New York as the assistant to one of the most well known magazine editor, the hardcore Miranda Priestly?

Well my experience as Ms. Reid assistant is not as exaggerated as the film, yet mirrors some of the same situations Andy Sachs, played Anne Hathaway went through. As an assistant to someone who is renowned in the media industry such as Ms. Reid teaches you to have tough skin, a humble spirit, and mind of a perfectionist. When I was granted the opportunity to have an eleven spot in the Reid Group, my heart skipped a beat and my eyes began to fill with tears of joy because knowing that Ms. Reid had faith in me proved that I was capable of interning in New York.  I would never forget the words, “Its something about you, like you’re destined for greatness,” and “I believe this internship would benefit you,” she said over the phone.

What separate Ms. Reid from Miranda Priestly are her sweet spirit and her passion in helping others. Don’t get me wrong; Ms. Reid doesn’t play when it comes to assignments, deadlines, and not taking “No” for an answer, but her motherly nature and southern hospitality makes you love her even more.

As an assistant, I’m constantly working closely with Ms. Reid while quietly observing her characteristics. I believe it’s important to learn as much as possible about the person you are working because it will show that you are considerate and serious about the job. Before the internship begun, I was assigned different task via email from Ms. Reid, therefore I was prepare to come to New York. In order to be a successful assistant you have to understand that communication is the key to everything. I carry my phone close to where I can hear it because I’m always receiving back-to-back emails and text messages. I am the liaison between Ms. Reid and the Reid Group.

Working for Ms. Reid isn’t easy but tough love to shape me for the real word of media.

Thank you Ms. Reid,

  ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Sunday June 24: Church

Time flies super fast we you constantly have work to do. The motto I live by is "Late nights and early mornings," there is no time for sleep if you are in the Reid Group. I can't believe I accomplished the week three already, sometimes I'm so busy working I forget the days of the week. Challenging myslef everyday can cause me to mentally drained and physically drained, but I know one thing that keeps me going is my strength from God and applying the word I receive on Sunday throughout this week.

This Sunday, at the Christian Cultural Center we had guest preacher from Atlanta by the name of Dale C. Bronner. Bishop is also an well-known preacher with a mega church called Word Of Faith. As Bishop Bronner slowly made his way in the church, I knew that his face looked familiar. My mind kept wandering as I try to figure out how this Bishop looks familiar. Than I realized, in the beginning of 2011 I attended one of his services. Pastor Bernard was suppose to give us part to of message titled Design, but the congregation and I were in for surprise. Bishop Bronner has a way with using big words, and the way he articulates certain things can sometimes leave you confused. Pastor Bernard jokingly mocked Bishop Bronner by using highly intelligent words as he begin to introduce him.

Bishop Bronner message focused on "Chasing after your Dreams," which was perfect for the situation I'm in. Interning in NY is a step closer to my dream of having a career in the mass media industry. He stated, "When you have one Godly idea, that idea can be bigger than a place and the product." I believe that God has blessed me with the gift of creativity, in my younger years I realized how my mind works in mysterious ways. There are so many goals I want to achieve in my life, and in the scripture Luke 1:37, "For nothing is impossible with God," which confirmation of God's word over my life.

Everyday is challenge but trusting in God and letting him be the center of your life will help you conquer that anything life throws at you. Throughout this entire internship experience I vow to continue to keep God first and watch the blessings unveil.


  ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Saturday June 23: Live Shots

          This Saturday was the most anticipated day this throughout week as I reflected back on my previous live shot training and thought about different ways I can improve.  Earlier that morning the Reid Group and I gathered together at NBC Universal Studios to watch our live shots from last Saturday. I was so nervous to see myself, as I was fearful of looking a mess on camera. I was the third person to go during the live shots, and when I popped up next on the screen in the conference room, all I could think about was how great Mr. Nelson was a the cameraman. The lighting was perfect and I looked amazing I camera.  But when I opened my mouth to begin to talk, I immediately turned red in embarrassment. I understand this was my first time, however I could have delivered so much better. The obvious mistake was the way I held a microphone; it was extremely to close to my mouth as if I were to practically eat it.  Also controlling my nerves on camera was another issue for me, because it distracted my thought process to where I ran out of things to say.

Ms. Reid kindly critiqued the footage and individually suggested techniques to help us as we continued practicing live shots.

            The Reid Group and I headed to Central Park, which is a main attraction in New York, to practice our live shots. This only meant more people and more attention.  Throughout the week we met with Soledad O’Brien who mentioned two strong tips while preparing for a live shot, talk into the camera as if you were talking to your mom and blocking out every distraction possible. There were so many people taking pictures, asking question, and jumping into the shot as were reporting out live shots.  The struggle to control my nerves this time was intense as I began to over think how I wanted to deliver on camera.  One moment I would change my story and than I would go back add to the original story, I was so discombobulated. I no longer wanted to referrer to my note pad, so this time I just braced myself and winged.

            I was a tad a bit nervous again, but I was able to control most of my nerves and saw improvement in my live shot. I knew what I wanted to say; I delivered to where my audience received the most important information. I felt better about my live shot performance this Saturday and I will continue to forward to my progression during this internship.

  ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Friday June 22- Melba's

I've been in NY going on 3 weeks and I've yet to have a good southern home-cooked meal. Usually I'm always up for cooking great dishes, but working hard at this internship spares me little to no time to throw down in the kitchen. I love to cook, that's one of my passions and I'm actually really good at it too.

Ms. Reid constantly told me how great Melba's is and they're the true epitome of "Soul Food." Last week the Reid Group and I were suppose to have dinner there but plans were cancelled and ever since I just had a craving for it. So I made reservations because of how popular Melba's is the wait to get a table can take forever. We caught the C train from 127th St Nicholas Terrace to 116 st which is only 1 stop; Melba's isn't far from the dorms at all. We walked 2 blocks to 114st and to the left hand side was a very small, intimate, classy restaurant known as Melba's. I couldn't imaging make a reservation for 11 people because we would have practically filled up the entire restaurant.  There are about no more that 25 chairs in Melba's so we were sitting pretty tight.

I grabbed the menu, which is very simple and straight to the point. The menu was long, skinny, and two sided. It was easy for me to decide what I wanted for dinner because of the simple menu, I wasn't confused. I order the Smothered Fried Chicken, the most talked about Tres Mac and Cheese and Candied Yams. My mouth drooled as I waited in anticipation for some southern comfort food. Within 20 minutes the food arrived and it looked delicious, despite how was missing a wing, the waitress took care of that really quick. After one bite, I was sold. Everything was so fresh, hot, and well seasoned. My plate was squeaky clean after I finished eating. Sometimes being a good cook yourself can cause you to be a tough critic, but everything was appetizing. So my review for Melba's would have to be an A- only because our waitress spent 15 minutes trying to split the check.

There were so many rules and regulations that we were unaware of about paying for our food. You can't split the check between 3 or more people, you have to pay with cash if your food is $19 or less, and you can use more than 3 credit when splitting the check. I was so confused and ready to go after the situation. I mean the waitress literally told us she don't know how to split and so she left the check for us to figure out how much we want to pay. Again, this was ridiculous to the point where I'm pulling out my tip calculator to figure out how much my bill would be including the 20% gratuity. This issue happen to me before a while back, and I realized how many resturansts don't emphasize the importance of knowing how to add or subtract. Basic mathematical skills will help prevent incidents like messing someones bill up.

Although we had a minor problem, the waitress was able to fix to where we finally got sperate checks. Will this hinder me from coming back to Melba's? No way! But I would advise everyone to bring cash.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Thursday June 22: Lunch w/ Pastor A.R. Bernard

Making sure that you are a spiritually fed is very essential to the mind and body.  So meeting with Pastor A.R. Bernard again was much needed to help the Reid Group and I stay focus throughout this internship.

With many big groups there will be moments where you have some ups and downs or, as Ms. Reid would call them, “incidents.” Pastor Bernard, once again hit it right on the nail with his message about how we don’t need self-entitlement when we deal with different situations. For example, when God places us in a position where we may not agree with the outcome, we have to learn not to blame him. It’s not about our feelings, or us we have to understand that we have the power to make the choices in life that can help us overcome those obstacles.

We also met with the members of Christian Cultural Center (CCC) who are active in the youth ministry, also known as C3. C3 is a group of youth who are dynamically involved in ministry who travel all around the world. They shared a few stories about their mission trip in Guatemala, which was very powerful. Especially when the lady who’s originally from Australia talked about expressing love through a simple hug and smile made a difference in those young Guatemalans girls’ life.

I never been outside of the United States, but watching and listening to C3 story, inspired me to get back into ministry. Members agreed that their faith was tested and increased from their experience in Guatemala.  That is something I desperately want to experience for myself because sometimes here United States I can get distracted and take the simple blessings in life for granted.

When I go back home to Dallas, TX I would definitely tell my Pastor Hal Johnson from Christian Stronghold Church about CCC mind-blowing youth ministry. 

  ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Wenesday June 19: Meeting Soledad O'Brien

Yesterday, in the infamous word of Ms. Reid, was an “amazing” day. The Reid Group and I woke up bright and early around 6:30 a.m. to head to CNN Studios to watch and meet with notable journalist Soledad O’ Brien.  We were able to sit in on O’Brien’s show called Starting Point, which is morning “conversational ensemble” described by CNN. This show replaced American Morning that aired from 2011 to 2011.

In 2009, I was first introduced to O’Brien while watching CNN’s most powerful documentary called Black in America. This documentary showed how African-Americans deal with everyday life and the many challenges we face. I instantly became a fan of O’Brien ever since because it took strong and confident journalist to be able to deliver and execute such a controversial documentary.

While standing on the set of Starting Point, I was jus in awe on how well O’Brien reported information and had control of her show. It was so natural just like her personality, very detailed and straightforward. Also, in her segment there a different variety of stories that she reports, from hardcore news to fun moments in sports. I also went behind scenes in the control room to see how the show operates from a viewer’s standpoint. I notice the teleprompter and tried to read along, it’s not as easy as it looks. There were times were O’Brien did a little impromptu and adlibs.

My favorite part of Starting point was when she interviewed Southern Baptist Convention’s (SBC) first African-American president, Fred Luther for the 167-year denomination.  One of her guest panelist asked Luther a question about gay marriage being a civil right’s issue, which is a very sensitive topic. Luther confidently stood on his biblical beliefs, stating “God attended marriage to be between a man and a woman.” Than O’Brien interjected with another question about he feels about being in opposition with America’s president who supports gay marriage. Again, Luther did not back down on his beliefs but mentioned how he supports our president and the gay community but has a different perspective on gay marriage.

We headed back to the set of Starting Point for an intimate question and answer moment with O’Brien. I introduced myself while so many thoughts were running through my head, like “OMG I cant believe this happening!” She than asked if we had any question to ask, I think everyone stood in admiration because there was an awkward 3 second pause before questions were asked. She went in detailed about finding what makes you comfortable while reporting to help control your nerves. That was a common issue for the entire Reid Group last Saturday while practicing our live shots. She gave a helpful example that I will never forget, she suggested acting like the camera is your mom and you’re trying to tell her whatever happened as detailed as possible.  I will definitely use that tactic this Saturday coming up to help master my live shot performance.

Meeting O’Brien will be an unforgettable experience; I really enjoyed her down-to-earth persona and helpful advice.  I can’t wait to see her again possibly work with her in the future.

  ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Tuesday June 19: Modern Day Nannies

Central Park was filled with many strollers from left to right; majority of the children in the strollers followed behind a Black nanny, a trend among black women that is still somewhat popular.

            

       The trend of Black nannies where from the West Indies and was spotted strolling a white child around the park.  Some nannies where from Trinidad, Barbados and Jamaica. New York is known for being an integrated city, where many immigrants from around the world come and start a new life.

            Becoming a nanny is a common occupation for West Indies women to make good money without an educational background.  .

            Sonya has been a nanny for 25 years and mentioned how she makes more money than most people who graduate with a degree.

            “A lot of us come from the West-Indies because this is what we get when we get it here,” said Sonya. “I need to be able to provide for my family so if that means taking care of someone else’s and make really good money that’s what I’m going to do.”

            Nanny duties consist of help raising a child and spending quality with him/her when his/her parents are not present. Many of the children’s parents are older in age and have a fulltime career in corporate America. These children are always away from their parents so having a nanny helps ensure that the child can still receive plenty of attention and love.  The relationship between the child and nanny was very natural as if the child was her own.

            Each nanny mentioned how being “referred” is a way to get into the nanny business.  Sheila, also a nanny for about 5 years explain how many families prefer Black or West Indies nannies over young white babysitters.

            “They prefer us because they know that we are skilled at raising children and we are hard workers,” said Sheila. “These young white girls are lazy and don’t wont to do anything.”

            Similar to Sonya, Sheila successfully makes good money working in the nanny business.

            Although nannies reflected a poor image in the past for Blacks, these modern nannies seem love what they do and appreciate the stable income.

           

 ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

           

Monday June 18: Allison Samuel's Book

Today I was able to read and discuss with journalist extraordinaire, Allison Samuel's new book, entitled "What Would Michelle Obama Do?" This book is modern day guide to living with substabce and style from Michelle Obama's perspective.

Samuel's was inspired by books that celebrated classic incons such as Audery Hepburn and Jackie O.  But strongly felt that we needed a book that embraced a modern day, African-American icon. Michelle Obama is fnot only the first African-American first lady, but a role model to many women all over the world. From her sense of style, being a wonderful mother, and a supportive wife, Mrs. Obama definitely an epitome of a strong women.

The book gave me an inside of look of how Mrs. Obama lives her daily life and perceives certain situations such as relationship advice and working under stress. I learned many new things about Mrs. Obama and how intelligent she was since she was a young girl.

Yesterday, my discussion with author Samuel's sparked an idea to create a series of stories of multiple African-American icons with the title "What would____Do?" There are so many African-American women that I considered role models and would love read a book that gives you a deep inside look of their individual lives. Women such as Oprah Winfrey, Tyra Banks, and even Jacque Reid. Samuel's loved the idea and actually considered keeping it in mind. I will continue to follow up with her about the series of books. I also suggested that she should write books for young African-American girls which would promote reading and knowledge about important Afican-American women.

Samuel's is an awesome writer and most importantly has passion for it because of her 16 years in the journalism field at News Week and Daily Beast.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson 

Sunday June 17: "Church Time" -Christian Cultural Center

From a long week of working hard at my internship, I needed to be at a place of worship to prepare myself for more weeks to come. I always understood that God creates us with a purpose in this thing we call life, but my idea of receiving was different. I thought you had to be a certain age to realize your purpose or go through many things to find it. So throughout my life I had been searching and over thinking about my specific purpose, especially during my experience with the Reid Group so far.

God has truly blessed me with this opportunity to learn and work hands on  and everyday I can see myself grow as a person.

We worshiped with Ms. Reid's home church, the Christian Cultural Center (CCC) lead by Pastor A.R. Bernard. CCC has over 30,000 members and I was still able to get an intimate word from God like it was designed just for me. Actually the message was call "Design" Pastor Bernard preached about our purpose in life and how it comes in everyday life, but sometimes overlooked because we're waiting for that one big moment. He also define purpose as using "Your gifts, talents. and abilities to satisfy a human need." Pastor Bernard used Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as an example of person who simply used their God given talent, which was motivational speaking to influence the importance of equality to people all over the world. It was just that simple! Dr. King Jr. didn't discover that he will be a Civil Right's Activist at a young age, it just happened through his ability to be able speak and impact many people that he changed the world.

As I reflect throughout my life, I believe that I am slowly working towards my purpose by preparing myself here in New York, as a possible reporter changing lives all over the world.

From now on I will not take simple things in life for granted because I'm walking with a purpose.

Amen.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Saturday June 16: My Trip to Times Square

After an adrenaline rushing morning at NBC Universal Studios from learning and practicing our live shots outside of 30 Rock, the Reid Group and I decided to walk over to Times Square. 

I was so excited to go because I haven’t been since we arrived to New York, and that’s the first place every tourist goes. Times Square is not far from where we intern, so the walk wasn’t long at all. 

The sight was beautiful, I never been surrounded by such tall buildings, seen that many flashing lights, and people in my entire life. I took so many pictures while trying to keep up with the group; I just couldn’t help but stand in amazement. 

From a mini break-dance performance, live cartoon characters, and stores on top of stores; Times Square is a busy place.  The Group and I were hungry therefore we didn’t do too much walking because we went to the nearest restaurant possible, which was TGIF. The prices on the menu doubled than those back home, everything was extremely expensive.  So I end up splitting an appetizer with Brishaun.

We quickly finished eating, so that we can walk around before it was too late.  The smell outside was a combination of food, sewer, and something burning; it was pretty gross.  Despite the smell I was still able to enjoy my mini tour of Times Square and will definitely be back next week.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Friday June 15: My Adventure to Get Ice

Instead of going to the much talk about southern restaurant Melbas in Harlem, the Reid Group decided to order in pizza and have a girls talk initiated by Ms. Reid.

In order to have a successful internship experience, it’s important for the Reid Group to be on one accord. We are the first group of ladies to be apart of the Reid Group Class at Clark Atlanta University (CAU) and granted the opportunity to be apart of this amazing internship.

So after a long, hard day of work at our internships, we were hungry for some good food. My responsibility was to look for some delicious pizza places that delivered to the dorm. I looked up 5 places based on the reviews on Google and Yelp. I came across a place called Tom’s Delicious Pizza, the name alone was convincing enough. I shared with the group the places I found and we all agreed to put our trust in Tom’s.

Than I realized, “Oh wait!” “Don’t we need something to drink to wash the pizza down with?” Than Ms. Reid asked for someone to got to the corner store and grab drinks. Not every one volunteered at once,  I put my head down to try to  avoid going because I literally just came from Target in Brooklyn, caught 2 trains (the A Train and 1 Train) , and carried 3 bags with a case of water. My arms were so numb, I was drenched in sweat, and was looking forward to go back outside for the rest of the day.

Next thing you know, my name was called by Ms. Reid to go grab the drinks. Luckily I had a few people to walk with me because as easy it sounds it was challenge all because we needed ice. The plan was to grab everything at the corner store of 129^th street and Saint Nicholas Ave. This store had any and every drink you could imagine but ran out of ice. So we just grab the drinks and cups there and headed down on 129^th a tad bit further to another store and guess what? No ice. We continued to walk because I knew that walking back to the dorm 10 minutes later with just cups and warm drinks was the answer. So as we headed down the street, I just kept hearing Ms. Reid voice saying, “Demeshia, I don’t take no for an answer and you shouldn’t either,” “What’s CAU’s motto?”

Therefore I was motivated to get that ice! We went to a gas station, where we saw an ice cream truck and asked the driver if he had any ice we could buy. The only ice he had was prepared snow cones and that was not going to work.  We were so tired because we went to every corner store nearby; it was getting late, any everyone kept calling because they were concern.  Than I realized it was one more store that we have yet to go in. As soon as we opened the door I just blurted out, “Do you guys sell Ice?” and thank God they had a freezer full of ice for $2.50 per bag. So we grab the bag and threw in the basket while speed walking the rest of the way home.

Finally we arrived with the drinks, of course everyone wanted to know why it took so long (laughing), I just know that I wasn’t taking “No” for an answer.  We all ate our Tom’ Delicious Pizza, enjoyed our drinks (with ice), and  had a great time.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Thursday June 14: The Reid Group

Yesterday, was a fun-filled day for the Reid Group.  We headed to Ditch Plains for lunch, which gave us time to bond as we walked the streets of New York. From laughing, to singing there was a sense of closeness that I really didn't notice til now.

We finally arrived to Ditch Plains, which is an amazing restaurant. The host ends up putting us in a round table were we all were squeezed tightly together. This gave us more opportunity to build our relationship even more as the Reid Group. There are so many personalities, and we all come from different backgrounds, so you wold think there would be a moment were we clash and next thing you know its that awkward separation. Well not for the Reid Group and thats why I admire these young women.

We're not perfect, we do have our moments of disagreement but with a professional mindset, we understood to not let anything interfere with the internship. We ordered our food, discuss about the internship, laughed about our subway experience, and news that affected us. I reflected on how we looked and sounded like real media professionals.

As we headed back to 30 Rock, Lauren Fluker designated nicknames for us based on the Reid Group experience. Mine of course is "Robin", like Batman's sidekick because my role is the assistant. Lauren F. is "Nightclub" given by Ms. Reid because she is always talking going out since we landed in NY. Lauren A. is "Suga Mama" because when we head back to the dorms lights are out and she is always the first one sleep. Destinee known as "Say What..?" because of her soft spoken voice, Briana; "Stay Scheming" insider of how she got that one, Michelle and Ciara names are similar, "Columbo and Navigator because they always make sure we get to out destination, than "Powerhouse" for Chivone" because of her accomplishment at the Grio; having her article published online on the first day of her internship. Somehow Sequoyah and Aleisha share the same nickname "Silent Assassin" because they are very quiet yet they are hard workers. Lastly, Brishaun also known as "Gangsta Boo" because her favortie thing to say is Rick Ross infamous rap lyric, "You wasn't with me when we was shooting in the gym."




Needless to say, in a hour and half for lunch we were able to enjoy ourselves and create a closer relationship as the Reid Group.

✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Tuesday June 12: Chinese Takeout "New York Style"

Hard work calls for early mornings and late nights. Sometimes you go all day and realize you haven’t eaten.  

Its late at night, which means it’s too dangerous to walk the streets of Harlem, New York, so what’s a better way to satisfy your appetite with Chinese takeout (sarcasm)? Personally I’m not a fan of Chinese Restaurants, unless its P.F. Chang or Panda Express. 

I took a look at the menu, which was given to me by the front desk security of City Towers. There were so many items it was unbelievable, from Egg Drop Soup, Fried Rice, Seafood and more. The look on my face as I read the menu was unpleasing because of my bad experiences with Chinese Takeout. Front desk security, also a New York native, insisted that China Place was the best. 

Don’t get me wrong, I’m all up for trying new things but this was going to be a challenge. As my stomachs begin to growl I knew I had to either suck it up and order or starve. One of the resident assistants on duty agreed that this was really good Chinese food too. I told her how I’m from the south and how we don’t have any good Chinese spots. She than said the Chinese food up north is way different.

I called China Place, and asked, “Do you guys serve white meat chicken?” that’s always my biggest concern when eating Chinese food. Well, that left me the option of Sweet and Sour Chicken and Egg Fried Rice.

About 45 minutes later, the Asian Delivery Guy shows up to the dorm with my food along with other members from the Reid Group. The total together was $39 with everyone’s food. We all pulled out the exact amount and he kept mumbling the word “No change?” I was confused so I counted the money in front of him to confirm it was the right amount.  So he stared at me until I finally realized he wanted a tip. I didn’t have any change so I asked Destinee if she a couple dollars and the look on his face was so ungrateful.

As he left, front desk security and a few New York residents laughed saying,  “You never suppose to give a tip.” “New Yorkers don’t tip Chinese Takeout!”

At the moment I knew I still had some learning to do about this city. The food wasn’t too shabby either.

I’ll definitely order again, but this time no tip!

   ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson

Monday June 11: What I saw today in New York City....

June 11, 2012 was the first day of work for the Reid Group. Many emotions were running through my mind as I anticipated this moment.  I set my alarm clock at 3 different times, 6:30 a.m., 7:05 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. just to make sure I had a sufficient amount of time to make it to my destination by 9:00a a.m.

Each member of the Reid Group made it to the lobby, professionally dressed, positive attitudes and ready to begin our journey.

The night before we had a survival orientation, and one of the key points addressed was to walk the city of New York like we had a purpose. With our bags on our hips and a focused look, no one could tell us anything. We were ready to conquer anything NY threw at us.

I guess I spoke to soon.

As we arrived to the train station we constantly checked our phones for the time, which read 8:30 a.m. This left us plenty time to still make it to NBC Universal Studios on time. The plan was to get to the station early incase we ran into any mishaps.  Well, getting our Metro Card is where we encounter our first obstacle. There was an issue with someone’s card so we came together as team to collect change to buy a 1-day pass. Like Clark Atlanta University’s model “I’ll find away or make one,” we were all determined to get to NBC on time.

We continued down stairs to get on our train but somehow we ended splitting up. I was told so many stories about the New York Subway and how confusing it can be. I can testify to that statement with my first experience riding the train.  I ended up getting on the wrong train heading Uptown with 3 other Reid Group Members. 

Immediately we hopped off the wrong train to find the correct one which took 10 extra minutes. 

I definitely took this situation as a learning experience to become more aware of the New York Subway. 

What a way to start my first day... but what I saw in New York City is how time waits for no one, especially on the subway.

   ✌ ❤☺-Demeshia Jackson