Blog

By Fellina Pride

For as long as I can remember, whenever I would hear people mention Atlantic City I would automatically think of the boardwalk, the casinos and the hotels. That changed on November 21st when Felicia and I traveled to the city to conduct a presentation at Viking Academy and at the Atlantic City Free Public Library for THE MESSAGE

At the high school, Felicia spoke in front of an auditorium full of students and educators. Following a gracious introduction by the principal, Mr. Wilson, Felicia talked about the history of hip-hop and discussed her book THE MESSAGE, why she wrote it and the power of hip-hop as a means of expression. It was a fantastic presentation filled with music, visuals and words of wisdom from THE MESSAGE.  Both students and educators were active participants in the presentation. Heads nodded to the music, laughs were heard at the images of kangols, boomboxes and high top fades. Participants shared their favorite songs.  Felicia was asked how long it took to write her book, what other songs would she use if she wrote another book, and what advice she would give to someone wanting to do what she does. It was a great start to our day.

From there we went to the library, where we had a wonderful lunch with Teen Services Coordinator Mrs. Boyce, the woman responsible for the events, and Children Services Coordinator Mrs. Moffit. We were given a tour of the very impressive library, introduced to other staff members and treated beautifully. Felicia gave another book talk about THE MESSAGE and sadly it was time to go.

My entire perception of Atlantic City has been forever change. Thanks to the all the wonderful people we met--the educators, students and librarians. I see now that it is a city of so much more than just a boardwalk, hotels and casinos. It is a city where its people care for one another, a city where educators and others who work with children strive hard every day to try and make a difference in the lives of their young people.

Photo: Mrs. Boyce showing off her copy of THE MESSAGE.