This Time of My Life

I've never been good with time. I don't mean from an organizational point of view. I mean from a "don't waste every second you have available and use it" point of view. How many volunteer opportunities can I use while I work three jobs, take care of my family and my house and oh, yeah, sleep? I have decided that, no, I can't do all that. 


Foe nearly six years now, I have worked with some of the most incredible people here in Long Beach. From my wife, Sumi, to all the artists, business people, nonprofit organizations, teachers, institutions, the list is endless. These community minded heroes don't get enough credit for the everyday work they do. I am honored to know them. 


I believe Long Beach is a city full of great accomplishments and great promise. I will continue to support the efforts of so many. But, first, I will need to take a break. I tried to do so last year but there were still some things I needed to do. And I still have things I need to do. But this time, they'll have to wait. At least until the summer is over. 


I'm working on a transition for Create Long Beach (Cultural Master Plan), the PEG Community Television Collaborative, The Creativity Network website, the videos, the arts promotion. Others will have to accept those responsibilities. At least, for a while.


I'll still be using social media to post news and information but I'm going to focus on my two major work projects (El Camino College Small Business Development Center and New America Media's Youth Journalism Training program, VoiceWaves) along with a truckload of Personal business that has long been on the back burner. And can't be any more. 


Now, any one who knows me knows that this is no easy task. Keeping my hands out of stuff is just too damn hard. But, like an addict/alcoholic, I need to take it one day at a time and learn to just say no. 


You'll still be hearing from me about the projects above and a few other things. You can still follow me on: 
Facebook: Antonio.Ruiz


Facebook: The Creativity Network


Facebook: ActionandSolutions.com


Twitter: antonio_p_ruiz


Twitter: ActionSolutions


See you on the other side of summer.