Ellington

Boneqweesha Jones: "Welcome to Hair Did University School of Cosmetology and Vocational Studies Pre-Graduation Banquet. Our guest speaker is the honorable Congressman Smokey ‘Robinson' McBride. Congressman Smokey just arrived from an immigration debate and conference in Washington, D.C."

Smokey ‘Robinson' McBride: "The title of my brief speech is ‘Steppin' into Tomorrow.' I was inspired by a 1974 album and song (‘Steppin' into Tomorrow') by jazz great Donald Byrd. The song's lyrics were simple yet motivational. Every time I experienced a significant change or challenge in my life, I sang: ‘Steppin' into tomorrow, I got both feet on the ground! Steppin' into tomorrow, my destiny is found!'

"That song—with its three-word title and two lines of lyrics—taught me the concept of ‘less is more,' which may be good or bad. To the graduating class of 2010, before you step into tomorrow, remember those ‘teachable moments' of yesterday. As you step into tomorrow, be aware that your future employers are watching you on those social media websites. While stepping into tomorrow, develop your critical thinking ability. And when you step into tomorrow, make sure you're ready to meet the demands of doing more with less, especially if you live in a society that indulges in greed. And when the troubles and other negative-thinking individuals of this world annoy you, sing the positive and motivating lyrics from ‘Steppin' into Tomorrow.'"

Boneqweesha Jones: "It's time to step into the banquet room for some good old grub. Let's eat!"