Vision Beyond The Lens by -J.J. McQueen-

E ight years ago my family and I decided to try something new.  We decided it was time to expand and add an addition onto to our home.  Like many families at that time we too took advantage of the low interest rates and used our good credit as a resource to expand our lives.  Little did we know lurking around the corner was the company that was infamous for not completing projects. We somehow found ourselves connected with the negative pitfalls of the new construction business that we'd been warned about.  Fortunately for us, there was another budding young company around the opposite corner. The Master's Construction Company, owned by Carlos Levine. Carlos Levine-Red Shirt during pre-inspection walk-thru Carlos and I met around my second year out of college.  Like most young men chasing dreams he and I often shared our perspectives on entrepreneurship and economic success.  Needless to say it's been a road of ups and downs fo...

In the world of entrepreneurship it's easy to get consumed by the business of work. In 2013 I've fallen victim to the focus of workflow.  Recently, I've had to take a much needed moment to refocus and study.  The pause has allotted me a clear view, enabling me to continue in following the blueprints of other highly successful creative minds.  I guess it's safe to say that I'm back on the blogging/writing track. In the film and photography industries one can find his or herself working with A-C list personalities daily.  I've been blessed to work with all of the above.  Recently, I reconnected with one of my original clients.  He's Gospel music's Steve McCoy.  Steve is a writer/producer and has worked with the likes of VaShawn Mitchell, Brittney Wright, Jason Nelson and a host of other great artist.  Steve and I met ten years ago at a time when we were both striving to make waves in our respective industries.  Fast forward and some o...

When I was kid I remember most adults spending their days telling me what I should be and how things should go in order for me to be successful.  Needless to say a lot of those people were wrong.  However, there was one lady that spent her entire life showing me how life should go.  She taught me what sacrifice and unconditional love was all about.  I met her in August of 1977.  It was a real cool day.  After a long day of pain and pushing she finally mustard the strength to reveal my face. That was the day that I met my mother.  From there we spent 29 years together laughing, crying, learning and praying that life would be kind to us.  Life has indeed been kind.  The journey was one that many had an opportunity to witness.  In January 2006 her number was called, she was drafted to play for the team of Heavenly All-American Moms.  She left us here to carry on a legacy and the traditions of the many generations before us. ...