Hey BSB! I’m a new writer to this online community, but I’ve been an avid reader for a good while. I’m Brooklyn born and raised. In 2006, I was at a crossroad after trying to run away from a vermin attacked building. I thought I should do something a bit different. Since the world lives in Brooklyn and everyone had a great story about how they came to NYC, I decided to add to my story. I moved to…Queens! I moved to Jamaica, close to JFK Airport. I enjoyed the space and well-kept homes. I found peace going to meditate in Baisley Pond Park. At the same time, there were things I witnessed that disturbed me, like the rate of foreclosures and the destruction of original homes and renovating them into McMansions. There were also happenings that no one really knew about. I could only think of one way to express myself and hopefully unite others around me with the pride and concern I felt – start a blog! I launched The Progressive Southside.
I connected with people from all parts of Queens. Some readers actually encouraged the blog to open up to neighboring Springfield Gardens and Rosedale. Unfortunately, the blog halted when I moved in late 2007. It was so unfortunate that I couldn’t find anyone dedicated to carry the vision on. Forward two years later and here I am in Stuy Heights. Bed-Stuy has always felt like home. My grandma lived here for almost 30 years. Aunts, uncles and family friends all lived here. I’ve visited quite a few churches. It’s a familiar place. A comfortable place. A place that continues to grow and thrive.
I’m elated to be apart of this strong community. I’m looking forward to bringing some good coverage. Special shout-out to The Changeling who planted this seed, which has produced great fruit!  See you in a bit.
From the digital pen of The Progressive Southside
Couldn’t have said it better.
The changeling, in a word, CHANGED me. I began reading BedStuyBlog in early 2008 and was happy to see someone capturing the mood, feel and goings on in Do or Die.
While the slogan is no longer “politically correct”, the changeling did just that: the DO part, that is.
And it inspired the chronicler in me, from the lens of my camera to the keyboard offering perspective.
Looking forward to more from the Progressive Southside.